Rincon Point, often hailed as the "Queen of the Coast," is renowned for its surf and beautiful scenery. This iconic California point break, shaped by the natural forces of a rivermouth over millions of years, offers a unique surfing experience. It's located just off Highway 101, making it easy to spot and access. With free parking available, most days you’ll find it packed with surfers eager to catch a wave.

The surf here can be world-class, especially when the conditions align. Rincon handles swell sizes from about 2 to 12 feet (0.6 to 3.6 meters) and works best with a northwest swell direction. Although it can break at all tides, low tide usually offers the most hollow sections. Rides start from the remote Indicator, racing through the Rivermouth's unpredictable waters, and connecting to the Cove, with a total ride of around 300 yards. Expect a variety of takeoff spots, depending on swell size and direction. Most folks are on shortboards or longboards, while fish and funboards also find their place on the waves here. It’s a right point break, so paddling can be quite the workout when it’s on. The preferred wind is north to northeast, which helps shape the waves nicely.

Keep in mind, this spot can get incredibly crowded, with over 150 surfers out on a good swell day. While it's famous and fun, sharing the waves is part of the experience. The Cove does tend to be more suited for longboarders looking for softer waves, but it can surprise you on a good day. The wave breaks over cobblestones and sand, presenting different challenges for surfers of all skill levels, though it’s ideal for intermediates. Rincon is best surfed during the autumn and winter months when the swells are more consistent.