Overview
The Lagoons are a run of four beachbreaks in Humboldt Lagoons State Park, spread across about 9 miles of coast: Big Lagoon, Dry Lagoon, Stone Lagoon, and Freshwater Lagoon. All four share the same basic character, breaking over sand with both lefts and rights. Freshwater Lagoon is the most popular of the group, sitting right alongside the highway. The water here is sharky, and Big Lagoon in particular throws up heavy shorepound.
When It Works
The Lagoons draw swell from south to north (S-N), with northwest (NW) the best match. They work from 0.3 m / 1 ft to 1.8 m / 6 ft, and a clean, head-high swell is the setup you want across all four. The lagoons above Big break consistently, and overall the spot is moderately consistent, but the shape is temperamental. Sandbars shift constantly with the strong currents, so the wave can change from one session to the next.
Wind and Tide
Look for east (E) offshore wind. The Lagoons can work through most of the tide, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
This one suits intermediate surfers, and you can expect a fairly quiet lineup. Keep your wits about you, though: the water is sharky, the undertow can be severe, and Big Lagoon's shorepound is no joke.
Access
There is camping right at Freshwater Lagoon, and parking is roadside.
