Ano Nuevo State Reserve is a sandy-bottomed beachbreak tucked into a sheltered cove along a pristine, natural stretch of coast. Swell wedges off the stone walls into hard-hitting A-frames that bowl through to the inside, and the wave can turn very hollow, powerful, and shallow. It faces south, so it sometimes holds a rideable wave when the rest of the coast has gone flat.
When It Works
The break draws swell from south through west-southwest to northwest (S-WSW-NW), with southwest (SW) swell the best match. It works from 0.6 m / 2 ft to 2.4 m / 8 ft and is moderately consistent, with worthwhile waves possible across spring, summer, autumn, and winter.
Wind and Tide
Look for northeast (NE) offshore wind to clean it up. It breaks through low and mid tide, and a rising tide is generally the better call.
Local Tips
This is a shortboard wave that suits intermediate surfers comfortable with a hollow, shallow take-off. Expect a moderately busy lineup with a neutral atmosphere when it turns on. Keep the shark risk and very cold water in mind, and respect the shallow bottom.
Access
Ano Nuevo is a state park, so expect an entry fee and paid parking in the lot before you walk in. Restrooms are nearby.
