Top 15 Best Santa Barbara Surf Spots in 2024

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Looking for the perfect place to catch a wave? Santa Barbara is home to some of the best surfing spots in California. With plenty of breaks for all skill levels, you’re sure to find a spot that’s perfect for you. From beginners looking for an easy ride to experienced riders looking for a challenge, these are some of the top Santa Barbara surf spots worth checking out.

I learned how to surf while going to college in Santa Barbara, and still head up the coast from my current home in South Bay LA when the surf is looking good. I LOVE surfing in Santa Barbara and checking out all these epic surf breaks.

Is There Good Surfing in Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara is a California coastal city located about 100 miles northwest of Los Angeles. It’s known for having some of the best weather in the state, as well as beautiful beaches and an especially scenic coastline. So, is there good surfing in Santa Barbara?

The answer is a resounding yes!

The waves here are highly consistent, and there are breaks for all levels of surfers, from beginners to experienced riders. The waves here are typically gentle, the people are friendly, and the views from the ocean are unmatched.

15 Fun Surfing Spots in Santa Barbara

#1 – Santa Barbara’s Premier Surf Spot: Rincon

Rincon is Santa Barbara’s top surf spot and one of the most popular and well-known spots in all of California. The wave here is a point break that is perfect for beginners (on a gentle day) and advanced surfers alike.

Rincon first gained popularity in the 1950s and has been a favorite spot ever since. Known as the “Queen of the Coast” this spot is partially secluded and you must walk down the cliff to reach it, giving it a beautiful and mystical feeling when surfing there.

Rincon has always been (and still is) largely a locals’ spot, though nowadays it’s also scattered with surfers making trips to surf the famed Rincon Point. Luckily, Santa Barbara surfers tend to be welcoming and not too territorial. However, if it’s pumping at Rincon there will be crowds and you should be especially mindful of the locals who will want to claim the best waves.

Important information about Rincon surf spot:

To get to Rincon, you will park in the free parking lot right off the freeway to the north and walk down a path to get to the beach.

There are three main spots to surf at Rincon, the “Indicator” at the top of the point is best for those on longer boards looking for long rides. The “Rivermouth” is a more unpredictable, sometimes hollowed-out section. And the “Cove” starts halfway up the point and typically features various takeoff spots.

#2 – Leadbetter Point

Leadbetter Beach is a classic surf spot in the heart of Santa Barbara. It needs a decent west swell to break and improve the quality of waves, but the point offers long and gentle right-handers. This spot is perfect for those who prefer longboards and more mellow vibes.

Important information about Leadbetter Point surf spot:

As is the case with most of the area, the best time to find waves is autumn and winter. This spot is ideal for beginners and can get quite crowded due to its ideal location downtown.

To reach the beach, park along Cliff Dr., La Marina Blvd., or in the free parking lot located at Shoreline Park. From your parking spot, take the trail down the bluff to the beach.

#3 – Devereux (aka Coal Oil Point)

Devereux (or Devs, as we called it) was my most frequent and favorite spot to surf in Santa Barbara. Located just north of the town of Isla Vista (UC Santa Barbara’s college town) it has some of the most consistent surf in the area. It’s mostly a point break offering lots of right-handers, though on a good day, you can surf the beach break down to the edge of Isla Vista.

Important information about Devereux surf spot:

Parking for Devs is free and located along Camino Majorca at the edge of the park. If there’s no parking there, scan the streets in Isla Vista for street parking.

There is a staircase down to the beach right at the edge of the park, if the tide is low you can walk out along the beach to the point. Or at high tide, take the path along the cliff until you see the abandoned graffiti structure. There’s a makeshift path down the beach here, but be careful as it’s a bit steep.

This surf spot works best on a medium tide, and be especially cautious if you try to go out at a lower tide because the area is full of rocks.

#4 – Sands Beach

Located just to the north of Coal Oil Point past Devereux, Sands Beach offers some left-handers and beach breaks. Often when Devs is flat, there’s a chance there might be something catchable at Sands. A little less gentle and dumpier than Devs, but ti still has some fun waves when there’s not much else rideable in the area.

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#5 – Santa Barbara Campus Point

UC Santa Barbara’s very own surf spot, this point break is located at the tip of the university. The waves here are often pretty small and beginner-friendly, but every once in a while during the on-season, Campus Point picks up. When there’s a bigger swell, you might get some fun, long rides.

Important information about Campus Point surf spot:

Campus Point can be reached by walking down from the paid parking lots off Lagoon Road. During the school year, this Santa Barbara surf spot is full of college students and during the summer it’s typically packed with summer camps and kids learning to surf. Watch out for the rock bottom.

#6 – Sandspit

This Santa Barbara surf spot is for advanced surfers who are used to navigating tricky water. The way the waves here work is a set will approach the breakwater, hit the backwash, splash (or POUND, depending on the day) off the jetty boulders, and rocket down the line. The takeoffs here are typically very steep and when there’s a swell, it can be quite chaotic in the water.

Important information about Sandspit:

This spot can be a bit dangerous and you need to be able to react fast in the water and stay aware of the rocks and intense waves.

To get to Sandspit, drive down Cabrillo Blvd./Shoreline Dr. until you can make a left onto Harbor Way. There is parking (90 minutes) by the Santa Barbara Yacht Club, at which point you will walk out to the end of the breakwater.

#7 – Jalama Beach State Park

Located a bit over an hour north of Santa Barbara, Jalama is unique for the area in that it breaks during the summertime, making it a favorite for locals looking to escape the sad, flat summer swell days. Plus, it’s in an isolated area, offering beautiful sandy beaches and gorgeous coastline views.

The Jalama surf spot is made up of three breaks: Beachbreak, Cracks, and Tarantulas. The first two offer sandbar breaks that are semi-hollow and best during high tide. The latter (also known as T’s) is the best option on smaller days and primarily features left-hand fast peeling waves.

Important information about Jalama surf spot:

It’s best to surf Jalama in the morning before the winds kick up and create tricky afternoon conditions. The waves can get decently big (some of the biggest in the Santa Barbara area) and powerful here, so most of the time it’s best for intermediate and advanced surfers.

Jalama Beach has a parking lot that costs ~$10 for day use. To reach it, take the 101 north from Santa Barbara and exit onto Highway 1, turning left onto Jalama Road after about 13.5 miles.

The park also offers overnight camping that costs about $20-$40/night depending on the season. Camping can be reserved through the Santa Barbara County Parks website.

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#8 – El Capitan State Beach

This spot doesn’t break very often, but when it does, it’s one of the premiere right-point breaks in California. The waves here are a bit of a legend, it’s rumored that Shaun Tomson has gotten some of the longest waves in his life here. There is a potential for a serious barrel on a good day, but good days are unfortunately few and far between.

Important information about El Capitan surf spot:

This spot is mostly for advanced surfers, largely due to the takeoff section that’s located close to dangerous rocks at the top of the point. Plus, when El Capitan is breaking, the crowds get intense and competitive.

There is a parking lot for the state beach that is marked and easily accessible from the 101 highway.

#9 – Refugio State Beach

This is a lovely beach in a gorgeous setting that offers a point break that is sheltered from the wind. The waves are typically slow and mushy, perfect for beginners and longboarders. However, there does need to be a pretty good-sized west swell coming in to catch anything here.

Important information about Refugio surf spot:

Refugio State Beach is located just a bit further north than El Capitan, also off the 101. Parking is typically about $8 here for day use.

#10 – Hammond Point – Montecito

Hammond’s offers a fast-breaking, right-hand wave that is best for intermediate to advanced surfers. The proximity to downtown Santa Barbara and Montecito is the biggest draw for this surfing spot.

HOW TO GET THERE: You can park either at the Four Seasons (valet) or you can find beach parking near Hammond’s Meadow off Eucalyptus Lane.

#11 – Channel Islands

Though not the easiest accessibility, surfing the Channel Islands is one of the most unique surfing experiences in Santa Barbara. Depending on the time of year and swell direction, you can surf at several locations on the Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, and San Miguel Islands.

Typically, the north shore is best during the winter and spring and the south shore is best during the summer and fall. You will likely need a private boat to access these surf spots, contact local area surf shops or the park visitor center for more information.

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#12 – Carpinteria State Beach

Often overlooked for its better counterparts, Carpinteria is a beach break that is peaky and fun with fairly mellow waves. Surfers at all levels can typically surf here, and the waves offer both lefts and rights. Surprisingly, summer and autumn are some of the better times to surf at this spot.

Important information about Carpinteria surf spot:

Carpinteria State Beach is located not far off the 101 freeway. Day-use parking is about $10, but you may be able to find street parking and walk in if you look around a few blocks away. For overnight camping, check the official California Parks and recs website.

#13 – Tarpits

Located at the south end of Carpinteria State Beach (park in the same place), Tarpits can have some fun lefts and rights but tends to be an erratic, semi-closed-out beach and reef break. It’s the most fun on a medium swell with a rising tide during the summer and autumn.

#14 – Mussel Shoals (aka Little Rincon)

Though not as popular or consistent as its more famous counterpart, Mussel Shoals has a decent right point break that can provide fast, hollow sections and even the opportunity for some barrels on a big swell day. This spot is typically best with a big winter swell and on a low tide. The shallow rocks at Little Rincon make it a bit dangerous for beginners. 

HOW TO GET THERE: Located directly off the 101 highway, there is a small parking lot next to the freeway.

#15 – Padaro Beach (aka Santa Claus Beach)

While there’s nothing too special about the surf at Padaro Beach, it’s a little locals’ spot that tends to be quieter than other areas. It typically stays pretty small until a nice swell comes in, but it’s worth checking the reports here.

HOW TO GET THERE: As you exit Highway 101 between Santa Barbara and Carpinteria, head towards the ocean and turn onto Santa Claus Lane. There should be parking along the shoulder of the road with easy access to the beach after you cross over the railroad tracks.

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Important Information About Surfing Santa Barbara

In general, surfing in Santa Barbara ranges from incredible world-class waves to mushy, slow rollers that are hard to catch. For the best chance at stellar waves, winter brings the best swell for most spots. Most Santa Barbara spots work best on a low to mid tide and in autumn/winter.

Most of these surf spots are very rocky, so be extra cautious when surfing a new area and pay attention to what tide the spot requires for the safest surfing.

Best Time of Year to Surf in Santa Barbara

Winter is typically the best time of year to surf in Santa Barbara, followed by autumn and sometimes spring. It’s hard to find decent-sized surf during the summer (though it does happen!) because Santa Barbara is blocked from summertime swells from the south due to the offshore Channel Islands.

Winter months often bring some bigger swells that are great for more advanced surfers but might keep beginners out of the water. Likewise, beginners may have more fun in the off-season when the waves are small and soft-rolling. Though some days in the summer there is just nothing out there to ride.

Keep an eye on the Santa Barbara surf reports and always check the conditions before getting in the water as sometimes reports are not entirely accurate!

Water Temperature in Santa Barbara

Unfortunately, the ocean water temperature is pretty cold all year round in Santa Barbara surf spots, and you will likely need a wetsuit for most days except the hottest summer days, which can be quite lovely!

The water is warmest in September with a high water temperature of about 62.4°F (16.9°C) and the coldest in April with a low water temperature of about 54.3°F (12.4°C).

Best Wetsuit to Use in Santa Barbara

If you plan to surf in the winter, you probably want a 4/3mm wetsuit. If you’re someone who does NOT get cold that easily, a 3/2mm will be the better choice because you can use that year-round (and possibly no suit in the summer if it gets warm enough). 

Try out an O’Neill wetsuit to start. It was my first starter wetsuit and I loved it! It tends to fall in an average price range for wetsuits but is of high quality and lasted me quite a few years of frequent use.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BROWSE: Wetsuits

You can also consider purchasing surf booties, both for the cold winter water and to protect your feet from the rocks. I suggest a longer top (like this one) because it can go under your wetsuit pant leg to keep water out better. 

>>> CLICK HERE TO BROWSE: Surf Booties

Where to Rent a Surfboard in Santa Barbara

There are a handful of places to rent surfboards around Santa Barbara. These two are the closest to the beach and the above-mentioned surf spots. Otherwise, a surf lesson is a great option for convenience as they always provide gear as well.

• Paddle Sports Center – located near Leadbetter Beach and Sandspit surf spots
• A-Frame Surf Shop – located near Santa Claus Beach in Carpenteria

Best Surf Lessons in Santa Barbara

Surf lessons and coaching are a crucial step in any surfer’s journey, especially in the beginning phases. For first-time surfers, I VERY strongly urge you to take a surf lesson.

For one, you need to learn how to be safe in the water, both for your own safety and for those around you. There is a lot more to know about surfing than how to get on your feet, such as how strong the waves are and if there are any hidden rocks, currents, etc. to be aware of.

It can be difficult to learn surfing, especially on your own, and you will greatly speed up your learning curve and have A LOT more fun if you take a lesson (or a couple) right off the bat.

Even as an intermediate surfer, I take a lesson every time I go to a new spot because it’s best to hear from a local expert surfer who can cover basic surf etiquette, tide, and wave dynamics of the area.

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This surf class gets the highest 5-star rating out there and is also the best bang for your buck in terms of an affordable price for a quality service. The lesson lasts about 1.5 hours with an expert instructor and typically (depending on conditions) takes place at Leadbetter Beach.

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BEST PRIVATE SURF LESSON

A private surf lesson can be really nice for those who want individualized attention and direction. This lesson is quite affordable (especially if you have two people) and is great for all levels, though they predominately cater to beginners.

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BEST LESSON FOR THE “SURF EXPERIENCE”

Surf culture is fascinating, and that laid-back, beachy surfer vibe is definitely present in Santa Barbara. For those who are more interested in a relaxed day of learning to surf, along with learning about surf culture, this is the lesson for you!

Start your day cruising down the coast looking for the best waves of the day with “Uncle Micah.” Once you pick a spot, you will learn everything from paddling techniques and pop-ups to surf etiquette and reading the waves.

Everyone will have one-on-one time with Micah during this 3.5-hour lesson. Plus, you can even include yoga in your experience on certain days. This is one of the most affordable lessons as well, but gets incredible reviews!

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BEST LESSON FOR MORE EXPERIENCED SURFERS

For those with some surfing experience who want to improve certain skills or aspects of their surfing, this is the lesson for you! It’s a 1-on-1 lesson, so you will have the undivided attention of an experienced surfer giving pointers and areas to work on that will take your surfing to the next level.

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Best Beginner Surf Spots in Santa Barbara

The best Santa Barbara surf spots for beginners (in general) would be: Campus Point, Refugio State Beach, Devereux (not in the heart of winter during a big swell), or Leadbetter Beach.

During the summer, most of Santa Barbara is pretty beginner-friendly due to the small wave size. However, sometimes you run into the problem of the waves being TOO small and/or slow that they are difficult for beginners to get into.

SUMMARY: Best Santa Barbara Surf Spots

If you’re looking for a great place to surf, Santa Barbara is worth checking out. With plenty of spots to choose from, such as the world-class Rincon or beginner-friendly Sands Beach, there’s something for everyone.

And if you’re new to surfing, there are plenty of schools that can teach you the ropes. So what are you waiting for? Get in the water and start catching some waves at these incredible Santa Barbara surf spots!

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Moving To and Living in Santa Barbara