Santa Cruz has some great beach breaks, but it's the points and reefs that are the premier places for wave riding. Southern California has point breaks too, but there are so many wonderful beaches to surf, that they usually are the star attraction for board riders. This column features one such spot, a long stretch of white sand bounded at each end by a rock groin. In between these two breakwaters, a multitude of peaks peel along the bars at the bottom of the break zone.

On any typical day, when the waves are fun sized and plentiful, you will see a large and varied crew in the water. Small knots of surfers sit on each of the individual breaks, going left and right on short boards, long boards, sponges, stand-up paddle boards, butt surfers and even the occasional body surfer. There are constant arrivals in the parking lot eager to take their place in the rotaton, even as a returning surfer or two will leave the water at the end of their session.

As with many California surf spots, folks hang in the parking area, watch the action, swap tall tales and otherwise make the social scene. But it's not just about shmoozing, the focus is on surfing. As the waves get larger and the commitment level increases, the number of shore bunnies multiplies and the lineup thins to just the chargers.

When the waves are substantial, this beach offers hollow top-to-bottom crunchers. Steep vertical drops are common; barrels are plentiful. Paddling out becomes challenging, currents become hazardous. The casual and recreational surfers stay on the sand, and stand-out hellmen are the stars in the water. A range of conditions can be surfed at this beach, from ankle high long board waves, to double overhead pipes that break boards and dislocate shoulders. Knowing where you fit in this spectrum is important, since you don't want to get hurt, and you don't want to be bored.

CU Out There,

DogMan