PV Cove, located in Palos Verdes, has been a popular surf spot for many years. It's known for its mix of friendly waves and a bit of a local vibe. The access is by a dirt footpath from Flat Rock Point, which can sometimes be a hike, but it’s part of the experience. Being a protected marine preserve, the area is pretty pristine and features healthy marine life and offshore kelp beds that contribute to the quality of the surf. Just keep in mind that localism can be a bit of a thing here, but it’s not as intense as some other nearby spots.
The surf at PV Cove typically handles swell sizes from 4ft to 8ft (about 1.2m to 2.4m), with the best direction coming from the West and West-Southwest. On good days, you can catch both lefts and rights, making it pretty fun for longboards, funboards, and even shortboards. The bottom is a mix of rocks and sand, so watch your step. The waves can be user-friendly most of the time, especially for intermediates, but they can also get hollow and punchy on the inside left-hander known as Boneyard when the conditions are right. Tides do play a big part here; a mid to high tide is preferable, as the waves can drain out a lot if the tide is too low.
For paddling out, the lineup is a bit of a trek, especially with a solid swell, but it’s generally manageable when the surf is smaller. Winds from the East or Southeast are preferred for better shape on the waves, and you might find the spot crowded by local surfers, especially at the Boneyard during prime conditions. Overall, PV Cove can be a mixed bag but has plenty of fun days to offer for those willing to put in the effort.
