Cowell's Beach is a popular surf spot located in Santa Cruz, known for being a great place for beginners to learn how to ride the waves. The conditions here are generally mellow, and the long, gentle waves make it ideal for those just starting out. It's situated near Lighthouse Point, where the energy from the ocean calms down as it reaches Cowell's, resulting in a fun experience. The beach tends to be very crowded, especially on sunny days, but most surfers are learners looking to enjoy their time on the water, which keeps the atmosphere friendly.

The surf at Cowell's is characterized by long, slow waves that can handle swell sizes from 1ft to 5ft (0.3m to 1.5m). The optimal swell direction comes from the West, but it can also work with South and Northwest swells. The waves break over a sandy bottom, making it feel safe to paddle out, which is pretty easy here. You can expect right-point waves, especially good for longboarders. The best times to hit the surf are during low to high tides, and the preferred wind direction is from the Northeast, which creates ideal conditions for fun rides. The spot is open year-round, so you can surf here during spring, summer, autumn, and winter.

Access to Cowell's Beach is simple, with parking available on West Cliff Drive and near the Dream Inn. There are a few sets of stairs that make it easy for surfers to get down to the waves. Just a heads up, watch out for other surfers—getting hit by a longboard is probably your biggest concern here. The environment is clean, and the vibe is more about learning and enjoying rather than localism. So, if you're looking for a place to work on your skills or simply have a chill day in the water, Cowell's could be a solid choice.