Get ready to grab your board and hit the waves! If you're a surfing enthusiast, then northern California's San Francisco Bay Area is where the action is. From pros to newbies alike, our guide has beginner tips and all the details on where to find the best waves in the Bay Area.

Best Beaches for Surfing in the Bay Area

The Bay Area has beaches perfect for beginners and experts. The waves break on sand instead of rocks, which is always a bonus. It’s best to search for swells three feet or higher, waiting to tackle those 10-footers until your skills are advanced enough to handle them. 

When it’s time to pick your favorite beach spot, avoid overcrowded areas with too many other riders. Take some deep breaths and practice mastering each wave as they roll by.

With its abundance of shorelines, the Bay Area is a paradise for wave-loving adventurers. Whether you're an experienced surfer or looking to try it out for the first time, these stunning beaches will make sure every ride's a good one.

• Bolinas Beach: For the novice surfer, the waves at this beach are inviting and offer a smooth and gentle introduction to the sport.

• Stinson Beach: Get ready to catch some waves, as this beach has the perfect surf for thrill-seekers, especially during high tides. When you're done conquering the water, relax on its pristine white sand.

• Fort Cronkhite: Take a journey to paradise and experience the tranquil beauty of an uncrowded beach, best enjoyed at mid- to high-tide. Lounge on powdery white sand after your workout.

• Ocean Beach: This spot offers Instagram-worthy views where the horizon glitters with adventure and waves dance across the sand.

• Rockaway Beach: For a truly unforgettable beach experience, visit between high and low tides. Keep an eye out for rip currents, though; you want to stay safe while surfing.

• Linda Mar: Whether you're just starting your journey or already well on the way, Linda Mar beach always has a level of challenge. This spot is perfect for those looking to push themselves. 

• Mavericks: If you're an experienced surfer searching for a thrill, this spot offers amazing waves that are sure to get your adrenaline pumping.

California's Climate

The Golden State is full of dynamic weather, from balmy summer days to snowy winter storms. You'll feel the heat radiating in inland deserts and then a chill settling over coastal waters as you head for surfing season. In California, there are two surfing seasons: long hot summers and mild wet winters.

Nature has been generous to the San Francisco Bay area, presenting it with a climate made out of two elements: rolling hills and the cool breeze from the bay–the perfect combination for surfing. Mild winters mean that Californians can enjoy year-round outdoor fun, making this region an ideal spot for surfers.

Experienced surfers understand that the weather can drastically influence their sport. Rolling in from the bay, winds can generate waves of varying swell, which creates a surfing opportunity or challenge each time. Staying informed is key, so always check out an up-to-date forecast before heading out. 

• San Francisco's climate may be cooler than you think, so plan ahead. A wetsuit might be critical for safety. 

• San Jose has a milder climate because it doesn’t get the cold breeze off the bay that San Francisco does. It’s about an hour-long drive from San Francisco, but it’s close to the top Bay Area beaches, where there’s excellent surfing.

• Santa Cruz, also about an hour away, has beautiful weather most of the year and isn’t nearly as cold as San Francisco. Though, you may need a wetsuit in the winter months.

Learning How to Surf

With dedication and practice, you can become an avid Bay Area surfer in no time. Don't worry if you don’t know all of your moves just yet; lessons are available at nearby beaches. Use these tips to stay safe while having fun.

• Practice by laying down and pressing your hands into the ground or on your board beneath your chest. Then, with one motion, jump to your feet. This trains you to stand up.

• When the waves come rolling in, turn the nose of your board towards the shore. Now lay down and paddle. Make sure the tip of your board is even with the water's surface.

• Monitor the wave from a distance. As you keep paddling, use your peripheral vision every now and then to make sure you're in prime position. You don't want to be too far in front of or too far outside of the wave. With some practice, finding that perfect spot will become second nature. 

• With the wave behind you, look forward. When you start to feel speed and momentum, it's time to stand up. Don't hesitate, though, as you may lose your balance. Once you stand, you're surfing!

Live Where You Surf

From gorgeous weather and sandy beaches, northern California has plenty to offer, including well-paying jobs in Silicon Valley. If you’re new to this region of California and considering purchasing a new home, discover the Bay Area, where neighborhoods are close to work and beautiful beaches. Want to know more? Explore what Pulte Homes has to offer in the Bay Area.