Tarpits Surf Guide
Surf spot guide
Ideal Surf Conditions
Swell Direction
W, NW, SSE hurricane swells
Wind
N, NE
Surf Height
waist to head high
Tide
higher
Tarpits Surf Guide
Located at the south end of the Carpinteria State Beach, Tarpits is an erratic, semi-closed-out beach/reefbreak that tends to be best during the rainy season, when sand flows out of the small rivermouth to the south. The uneven reefbreak to the south of Tarpits also can offer a few lined-up lefts during a solid S swell.
Ability Level
All Abilities
Beginner to Slasher Surf Club member
Local Vibe
Doable
Hungry.
Crowd Factor
Moderate
Think: the only bar in a small town.
Spot Rating
Poor
Semi-closeout with a few openings.
Shoulder Burn
Light
Not too bad.
Water Quality
Clean
It's a rivermouth.
Hazards
Loose surfboards.
Bring Your
Shortboard, Fish, Funboard, Longboard, Bodyboard, Skimming
Access
There's a hole in the fence for locals, otherwise, follow signs for Carpinteria State Beach, pay your eight bucks and park right in front of the break.
Bottom
Sand and rock
Best Season
June-February
Do you have local knowledge about Tarpits?
If you have any insights or information to add to this spot guide, drop us a note at [email protected]
