Overview
Asilomar State Beach is a picturesque crescent of sandy state beach with crystal-clear water, flanked by two headlands. It has three main take-off zones: Roadsides, a right at the north end; Middles, a peak in the middle of the beach; and Reef, a left at the south end that can turn into a bowling right on bigger swell.
The middle beachbreak can be punchy, while the reef areas at the north and south ends can get very good. The bottom is sand with some rocks and boulders.
When It Works
Asilomar is exposed to swell from south to north, with northwest as the optimal swell direction. It is usable from 0.9 m / 3 ft to 3.7 m / 12 ft and can have surf year-round.
The south-end reef is good up to about eight feet, then shifts character on bigger swell. On a large swell, it can be one of the more challenging waves in North Central California.
Wind and Tide
A southeast wind is offshore here, and east to southeast storm winds can clean up the different spots.
Tide depends on which part of the beach you surf. The middle beachbreak works best on a medium-high tide, while the reef areas prefer low tide. A rising tide is generally better, with low to medium tide also fitting the spot.
Local Tips
Paddling is moderate, but heavy paddle-outs and currents are an issue when it gets big. Sharks and big surf are the main hazards.
It can suit a wide range of surfers, from beginners to experts, depending on size and which peak is working. Shortboards are the usual choice, with guns useful when it is big.
Crowds are moderate overall. It gets crowded at times, and when it is good the lineup can feel tight because many surfers know each other.
Access
Access is straightforward, with easy roadside parking plus a paid car park. Restrooms are available.
