Overview
Indian Wells is an open beachbreak that occasionally gets good through winter. It breaks over sand, and with no rocks to hold them in place, the sandbars shift around from swell to swell.
When It Works
The bank draws swell from the east through south to southwest (E-S-SW), with south (S) the direction that really switches it on. It's usable from 0.6 m / 2 ft to 3 m / 10 ft and stays moderately consistent, offering both lefts and rights. Winter is when it shows its best, and a solid south swell hitting the sandbars is what you're after.
Wind and Tide
Look for northwest (NW) offshore wind to clean it up. It works on low and mid tide, with a rising tide the better call, so a low incoming on a south swell is the pick of the conditions.
Local Tips
This is an approachable beach break that suits beginners, though rips run through the lineup, so keep an eye on where you're drifting. Expect a moderately busy lineup when it's working.
Access
A lifeguard covers the beach. Parking is free in winter but can get expensive the rest of the year, with a car park along with paid and roadside spots to choose from.
