Cowells Cove Surf Forecast and Surf Reports (CAL (2024)

FAQs

Who has the most accurate surf report? ›

The best time of year for surfing Cowells Cove with consistent clean waves (rideable swell with light / offshore winds) is during Winter and most often the month of January. Clean surfable waves are typically found 0% of the time in January while 1% of the time it tends to be blown out.

Just down the beach from Domes, around the corner and nearly in front of the Lighthouse, lies the Indicators peak. So named for the exposed rock in the middle of the lineup and the fact that it is a good indicator of sets approaching The Point and Maria's, Indicators is a dicey proposition when it's happening.

The good news is that, if you live or visit Santa Cruz County, you have access to Cowell Beach, or “Cowells,” as it is affectionately known. The Save the Waves foundation calls Cowells “one of the best beginner breaks in the world, possibly second only to Waikiki.” It's truly a gem.

Pipeline, Oahu, Hawaii

According to a CNN report, Pipeline in Oahu is the world's number 1 surf spot.

Surfline has been the surf world's go-to for wave forecasting and surf reports since 1985, helping millions of surfers score better waves, more often. Use the Surfline app to know before you go anytime, anywhere. Keep track of current surf conditions. - View live surf cams at 1000+ breaks around the world.

Typically, morning is the best time to surf. Sunrise brings an excellent water swell, which creates perfect waves. There's nothing better for breakfast than catching the ultimate wave and riding it into shore. Surfing early in the morning also allows you to avoid crowds that are present throughout the rest of the day.

“In general, the best surfing conditions can be found during winter months, in each respective hemisphere, when the waves tend to get bigger and the swells are more reliable. Summer months are usually less consistent and with smaller waves,” Drughi said.

Impossibles is a left-hand reef break located between Padang Padang and Bingin. The wave races along the reef with enough time for a few sections. But oftentimes the wave will outrun you.

Where is the backdoor surf spot? ›

Backdoor is an exposed reef break that works better on smaller swells. This consistent righthander is located at a beach called Praia da Empa, between two other surf spots: Pedra Branca on the south end of the beach and Reef on the north end.

The most popular open water swimming beach in Santa Cruz is Cowell Beach, located on the west side of the Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf. This small cove is generally protected from the wind by tall cliffs and the setting is idyllic.

The waves on the beach are not very large and go for long distances making them perfect for beginner surfers. The beach was previously owned by Henry Cowell, the owner of Cowell Lime works, and was donated to the people of Santa Cruz after Henry Cowell death.

Unless there is a frontal passage or squall line blowing through, early to midmorning tends to be calmer than later in the day. The winds tend to die down overnight, and since winds generate waves, the waves tend to lay down.

Surf reports, like weather reports, are not always 100% accurate, as they constantly change based on the weather conditions. It's best to use multiple sources and local surfing knowledge to determine the most reliable surf reports for your area.

Global surf forecasting firm Magic Seaweed (MSW) has announced it is losing its name as it merges with California-based Surfline.

3 = POOR: Poor surf with some (30%) FAIR waves to ride. 4 = POOR to FAIR: Generally poor surf many (50%) FAIR waves to ride. 5 = FAIR: Very average surf with most (70%) waves rideable. 6 = FAIR to GOOD: Fair surf with some (30%) GOOD waves.

The Windy app (iOS, Android) features real-time animated maps with wind and wave information, as well as tide data and classic chart displays. The Surfline app (iOS, Android) allows you to consult surf forecasts and reports for thousands of breaks across the world.