Overview
Drakes Estero is an exceptional but seasonal sandbar that forms at the mouth of the estero's delta, on the south side of Point Reyes. It's a river-mouth wave breaking over sand, and when it turns on, south swells focus onto the bar and bend into fast, hollow tubes that peel both left and right. Score it on a good day and you won't forget it.
When It Works
The bar draws swell from south to west, with south swell the direction that really lights it up. It comes alive mainly in summer and late spring, when those south swells line up cleanly on the sand. It's usable from 0.3 m / 1 ft to 2.4 m / 8 ft, though it can be somewhat inconsistent, so you'll want to time it for the right day.
Wind and Tide
Wind stays offshore on a north wind. It can work through most of the tide, but an incoming, rising tide is the better call for getting the bar firing.
Local Tips
Expect a moderately busy lineup when it's working. One thing worth taking seriously: there are plenty of sharks in these waters, so factor that into your session.
Access
Reaching the spot means about a mile walk east from Drakes Beach. There's a car park for leaving the car.
