Santa Cruz hookup?

[Tom]

My nephew is graduating from SCSU and my wife and I will be camping at the Henry Cowell Redwood State Park, 6/12 - 6/15. I'm bringing my SUP and would like some advice on where to SUP and where not to. It would also be fun to meet up with some of you but I'm not sure what days I'll have free.

[SUPcheat]

Hi, Tom,

I am in SC about half the time, will probably be there the weekend you designate.  Southwesterly is the resident expert on Santa Cruz, having surfed it and lived here for decades.

Cowell's beach by the boardwalk/pier is popular, but tends to be best as a low tide spot with generally weak waves, wide bowl so fun for beginner. During low low tide, you can get some nice long rides on moderate waves.  It is also close to Steamer's which is extreme waves but fun to watch, but tends to be SUP hostile and only for experts.

The most common thing is to go to 41st Street in Capitola, find somewhere to park, then go down the stairs. Avoid first break and go either left around the corner to Shark's cove, or further right to Pleasure Point second break.  Avoid the 41st first break unless you enjoy stink eye and also avoid Pleasure Point first break.  Parking at Capitola Pier area is also possible, but tends to be crowded and weaker in waves than Shark's or 41st area.  However, restaurants and fun for lounging at the beach, more or less completely SUP friendly and there are usually rentals for SUP at the beach.

You can PM me closer to the time you plan to leave and maybe do a session if I am over here.

Regards,
Carl

[southwesterly]

Hi Tom.
Send me a PM if need want advice of where to go, or not to go. At the very least you'll get a free trip through the gates of heaven (Privates).

[SupSurfIsSurf]

I surfed privates when there was super fun.  Not entirely sure where I was though.  It was north of capitola pier, south of pleasure point and north of sharks cove.  I think?

wheres 41st st.?

Was a super cool mixed lineup with an awesome wave.

was super crowded though

[14 West]

Waddell is always fun but a 15 minute drive north.