Backyards is a surf spot located on an exposed reef that's right next to Sunset. It offers a variety of peaks that catch the attention of surfers willing to put in the effort and take on the challenges that the spot brings. The vibe here is less crowded compared to other popular spots, so if you're up for a bit of pain and some heavy waves, Backyards might be on your radar.

The optimal swell direction for Backyards is Northwest, but the spot also handles swells coming from the West and Northeast. It's known for breaking over an uneven reef, which can make things tricky. When the surf gets going, you'll see waves around 6 feet (about 1.8 meters) and even larger faces up to 50 feet (15 meters) when the conditions are right. This place offers both left and right waves, but it's not for the fainthearted—only expert surfers should attempt to paddle out here. The best times to hit the waves are during low to mid tide, and if you can catch a breeze from the Southeast, that’s preferable for surfing.

Be prepared for the rough environment; the reef is shallow and covered with urchins, which adds to the challenge and intensity of riding these waves. If you're looking for a break that offers serious action without the usual crowds, Backyards could be worth a shot as long as you know what you’re getting into.