Rincon
Rincon is the Queen of the Coast—a world-class right-hand point break on the Ventura-Santa Barbara county line that produces some of California's longest, most perfect waves. When winter northwest swells wrap into this sheltered cove and north winds blow offshore, Rincon transforms into machine-like perfection, with rides connecting through multiple sections for hundreds of meters. The wave has shaped California surf culture for generations, producing champions and creating memories. The crowds are legendary when it's good, and the localism is real, but the wave quality justifies every bit of its reputation.
Today's Conditions
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- WNW (290°)
- Direction range
- 260° - 320°
- Size range
- 1m - 3m
- Ideal size
- 2.4m
- Height multiplier
- 0.90×
- Ideal period
- 16s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- N (0°)
- Offshore range
- 315° - 45°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- low to mid
- Optimal range
- 0.3m - 1.2m
Water temp
15°C
Wetsuit
4/3mm fullsuit
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
9/10
👥 Summer Break (Jun 15 – Aug 25) — expect extra crowds
Access: Park at Bates Beach. Short walk to point.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Rincon?
Rincon works best on a low to mid tide, ideally between 0.3m and 1.2m on the local tide chart. The tide chart above shows today’s strike window.
What wind direction is offshore at Rincon?
Offshore wind at Rincon blows from the N (0°). Anything in the 315° to 45° range grooms the faces; outside it, expect chop or bumpy conditions.
What swell size and direction work best at Rincon?
Rincon wants WNW swell (260° to 320°) between 1m and 3m, with a period of 16s or more for quality waves.
When is the best time of year to surf Rincon?
The main season at Rincon is Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb. A secondary window runs Oct, Mar. Peak winter. Needs big NW swell to wrap into the cove.
How do I get to Rincon?
Fly into SBA, then allow about 30 minutes by road. Park at Bates Beach. Short walk to point.
What kind of wave is Rincon?
Rincon is a point break, a right-hander. Difficulty is rated 6/10.
Best Season
Peak: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb
Secondary: Oct, Mar
Peak winter. Needs big NW swell to wrap into the cove.
Getting There
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