Ghost Trees
Ghost Trees is Pebble Beach's secret big wave—a right-hand slab named for the white, ghostly Monterey Cypress trees that frame the break. The Carmel Canyon focuses swells to produce waves in the 40-60 foot range on rare winter days. The spot is controversial: jet-ski bans limit access, and the exclusive Pebble Beach community has mixed feelings about the surfers. When conditions align, Ghost Trees produces some of California's most photogenic big wave barrels.
Ghost Trees surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- W (281°)
- Direction range
- 270° - 292°
- Size range
- 3.7m - 18.3m
- Ideal size
- 6.7m - 11.1m
- Height multiplier
- 1.08×
- Ideal period
- 20s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- E (101°)
- Offshore range
- 56° - 146°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- all
Difficulty
8/10
Crowd level
3/10
Access: Restricted (jet ski ban)
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Ghost Trees?
The Ghost Trees profile does not specify a preferred tide stage. That does not mean tide has no effect: check local conditions alongside swell and wind.
What wind direction is offshore at Ghost Trees?
The Ghost Trees profile uses wind from E (101°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 56° to 146°. Wind speed matters too: light winds outside that range can still produce surfable conditions, while strong offshore winds can make takeoffs difficult.
What swell size and direction work best at Ghost Trees?
The Ghost Trees scoring profile favors swell from W (270° to 292°), a swell-height range of 3.7m to 18.3m, and a reference period of 20s. These are model inputs, not guaranteed breaking-wave heights or a promise that the surf will suit every ability.
When is the best time of year to surf Ghost Trees?
The main season at Ghost Trees is Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar. A secondary window runs Oct. Rare winter days
How do I get to Ghost Trees?
The spot profile lists MRY as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 15 minutes. Restricted (jet ski ban)
What kind of wave is Ghost Trees?
Ghost Trees is a big wave break, a right-hander. Difficulty is rated 8/10.
Best Season
Peak: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Secondary: Oct
Rare winter days
Getting There
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Plan a trip around Ghost Trees
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