Surfing at Cowell Beach in Santa Cruz

Destinations West California Santa Cruz, California

Surfing at Cowell Beach in Santa Cruz

Cowell Beach, located just steps away from the Santa Cruz Wharf and Boardwalk, is a prime destination for surfers of all skill levels in Santa Cruz, California. Known for its gentle, rolling waves and welcoming atmosphere, Cowell Beach has become a staple in the surfing community, particularly for beginners. Its proximity to key landmarks and surfing heritage makes it an essential stop for anyone visiting the area.

Adventure Guide To Surfing at Cowell Beach

Perfect Spot for Beginners: Cowell Beach is renowned for its consistent, slow-breaking waves, making it ideal for those new to surfing. The gentle surf provides beginners with the time and control needed to practice popping up and riding waves. Local surf schools, such as the Santa Cruz Surf School, frequently hold lessons here, offering expert guidance and board rentals.
Iconic Views and Landmarks: While waiting for the next set, surfers can enjoy an unparalleled view of the Santa Cruz Wharf and the historic Dream Inn. The backdrop of the Monterey Bay adds a scenic charm to the experience, creating unforgettable memories both in and out of the water. For seasoned surfers, the mellow conditions at Cowell Beach can also serve as a relaxing break from the more intense waves at nearby spots like Steamer Lane.
Ample Amenities and Accessibility: Cowell Beach provides easy access to parking, outdoor showers, restrooms, and changing facilities, which are crucial for surfers. Its central location ensures availability of nearby eateries and coffee shops for a post-surf snack. Beachgoers can also walk over to the Santa Cruz Wharf for fresh seafood or a quick meal.

Local Insights

Cowell Beach carries historical significance as a cornerstone of surfing culture in Santa Cruz. It is often credited with being one of the first places where surfing gained popularity on the U.S. mainland due to the influence of Hawaiian royalty in the early 1900s. Many locals refer to Santa Cruz as the "Surfing Capital of the World," and Cowell Beach plays a major role in upholding that legacy.

Visitor Tips

Best Times to Visit: Morning or late afternoon avoids crowds, and weekdays are generally less busy than weekends.
What to Bring: A wetsuit is recommended year-round due to cooler water temperatures. Surfboard rentals are available nearby.
Directions: Cowell Beach is a 5-minute drive from downtown Santa Cruz via Pacific Avenue. Use paid parking near the Wharf for the shortest walk to the beach.

Adventure Map

Reviews

Katy Stevensin the last week

Was here in Janurary off season. Beautiful beach to walk. There is a wharf and the town has some restaurants open. There are public bathroom by the volleyball and were clean and decent.

Elaheh Aria6 years ago

It is small beach in front of the hotel. The cowell beach is just side by side of main beach which is a lot larger and crowded. The good point about cowell is clean restrooms right behind it.

Brian DiGiorgio Zanger5 years ago

The quintessential Santa Cruz beach. Activities here range from sunbathing, walking along the waves on the long flat beach, collecting seashells, watching surfers, or braving the cold water to swim. The length of the beach varies significantly with tide, but the side near the wharf is always there (unless it's the rainy season when there's a large river that runs through it). There can sometimes be a lot of stinky seaweed on the beach too, but that's part of the experience. Parking is also hard because there are so many tourist attractions around, but there's a shuttle that brings people from the downtown parking garage to the beach during the summer, so that's helpful.

Angel Hou4 years ago

Nice beach for family, especially in hot summer. Windy and a little bit chilly when walking and watching sea lion on the bridge. You have to walk to the end of the bridge to watch the sea lions. It is hard to find a place for parking in the afternoon. You may try street parking or on the bridge with $3 for 3 hours, $4 within 4 hours. A little bit crowded at weekend, but you can find a place to play with less people along the long beach. Recommend the beach on the right side of the bridge, there is a quick shower facility next to the beach entrance.

Matthew Walton5 months ago

Beach wasn’t crowded and there were lots of brown pelicans, harbor seals and sea lions feeding on sardines. That said there was trash and litter everywhere and that was very disappointing. Can see how this place gets a lot of use, but wish people would police their trash better…

Surfing at Cowell Beach in Santa Cruz