Pleasure Point is Santa Cruz's mellow alternative—a long right-hand point with multiple peaks that provides a more approachable experience than intense Steamer Lane just up the coast. Multiple access points along East Cliff Drive allow surfers to choose their section, from the fast walls of Shark Cove to the more forgiving peaks toward the end. The vibe is generally friendly despite crowds, and the wave works on both winter northwest swells and summer south swells, making it one of the region's most versatile options.
Water temp
14°C
Wetsuit
4/3mm fullsuit
Difficulty
5/10
Crowd level
7/10
Access: Multiple access points along East Cliff Drive.
Forecasts are validated against real-time buoy data.
Peak: Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Secondary: Jul-Sep
Works year-round. Multiple peaks along the point.
Verified by Surfline spot guide
How well swell angle matches the spot
Wave height in the ideal range
Each spot has different period requirements. Points and reefs can handle longer periods than beaches.
Offshore/glassy conditions