Palm Point is a right-hand point that peels over boulders along the Western Avenue and Paseo del Mar stretch. There are really two breaks to know here: the rocky right point itself, and a separate, popular peak known as the Jetty.
When It Works
The point draws swell from south through west, with southwest the direction to look for. It's usable from 0.3 m / 1 ft to 2.4 m / 8 ft. The right point will handle any west swell up to a foot or two overhead, but it comes into its own on SW swells at low tide, when the wave lines up best. The Jetty is the busier peak and prefers higher tides with small to medium SW swells.
Wind and Tide
Look for a northeast offshore wind. The break can work through most of the tide, with a rising tide generally the better call; the right point lines up best at low water, while the Jetty likes it fuller.
Local Tips
Both breaks fill in fast, so expect plenty of company in the lineup once it's working.
Access
Access is off Western Avenue and Paseo del Mar. Parking is mostly paid at a car park, though there's limited free parking on the bluff. Restrooms and a lifeguard are on hand.
