Overview
Point Carrew is a left-hand point on an exposed outer headland, looking across Yakutat Bay toward the Malaspina Glacier and Mt St Elias. It picks up plenty of swell and throws it over sand and scattered boulder banks. Conditions are often messy and blown-out, and strong current sweeping out of the bay adds to the difficulty, so it suits confident surfers. The wave is also very shifty, something a Red Bull tow crew found out firsthand on a big swell. If you want something more forgiving, the setup back toward Graveyards is much safer.
When It Works
The point draws swell from south through west, with southwest the standout direction. It's a consistent spot that grabs plenty of energy, and it runs as a left down the headland. Expect it to be usable from 0.6 m / 2 ft to 5.5 m / 18 ft.
Wind and Tide
Look for south offshore wind. It can work through low, mid, and high tide, with a rising tide generally the better call. A smaller day on a pushing tide is the safest window to time it.
Local Tips
This is intermediate-level terrain, best approached by surfers who are comfortable dealing with current. The lineup stays fairly quiet when it's on.
Access
There's camping nearby along with free roadside parking. Thick forest runs right down to the sand, so keep an eye out for bears foraging along the beach.
