Overview
Gold Bluffs Beach is a long, variable beachbreak set far off the beaten track, surfable when it's small and clean. It's a sharky stretch of coast in a lush setting, with wild elk roaming the area, so keep your distance and do not approach them. The break sits inside the large Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, and Fern Canyon at the end of the dirt road leading in from Hwy 101 is worth a look while you're out here.
When It Works
The waves break over sand and peel both left and right. Gold Bluffs draws swell from south through north, with northwest (NW) the best direction to line things up. It works from 0.3 m / 1 ft to 1.8 m / 6 ft, staying moderately consistent through the season.
Wind and Tide
Look for an east (E) offshore wind to clean up the faces. The bank comes into its own on high tide, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
This one suits intermediate surfers. Expect a quiet lineup, and more often than not you'll have it to yourself.
Access
Camping is available inside Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, making it easy to stick around for a session or two.
