Surf Cowell's Cove

Santa Cruz, California

4.8/5

based on 5 reviews

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Added by Austin Brizgys

This is a great place to learn to surf with an easy paddle out and other beginners on foam boards. There are sand volleyball courts on the beach. Duration: 2 hours.

Cowell's Cove is located just south of Santa Cruz’s iconic Steamer Lane. The break is a slow pealing right, and is a very user-friendly wave for beginners. It can get crowded on weekends, especially when it's sunny, but no need to worry, there are a lot people out on foam boards and most are beginners as well. If you want a friendly and easy place to surf or are looking for a trip to Santa Cruz, this is the spot for you! The friendly conditions also make it a good place to learn to stand up paddle surf as well, just make sure you give yourself enough space from the crowd to turn the bigger board.If you need to rent a board and wetsuit or want to get a lesson, you can go to Cowells Surf Shop, which is right across the street from the beach. If you’re looking to make a day of it down in Santa Cruz, check out the sand volleyball courts or satisfy your inner foodie by heading into town for a bite at Café Campesino.

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Stand Up Paddle

Surfing

Beach

Family Friendly

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Scenic

Reviews

Dana J. Wright

Surf Cowell's Cove

09/22/21

I was teaching my girlfriends how to surf here and we had a blast. Surfline said 3-4ft, poor to fair. We arrived at about 8AM and it was strait glass with 3-4ft sets coming in about every 6 minutes. Wind started to pick up around 10:30 and we decided to call it. Five star day

5.0

Andy

Surf Cowell's Cove

10/22/20

Great spot in santa cruz for beginners to learn to surf. Lots of people out there.

5.0

Surf Cowell's Cove

07/24/20

This is a great spot for beginners. When first learning or renting, club ed has some really nice instructors.

4.0

Noah Crider

Surf Cowell's Cove

06/18/20

This is a perfect spot for a beginner surfer looking to better their skills.

5.0

Admin

Tyler Drake

Admin

Surf Cowell's Cove

11/06/13

If you've ever taken a lesson before or are comfortable paddling for waves and standing up, this is a great spot to hone your skills. The crowd is usually very friendly and the waves are forgiving.

5.0

JohnPaul Macdonell

Surf Cowell's Cove

10/29/13

Great spot to learn how to surf. Best conditions with a negative or low tide.

Charlie Robinton

Surf Cowell's Cove

10/24/13

Cowell's gets crowded but there are nice, gentle waves to learn on and plenty of good breaks close by if you want to step it up.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Surf Cowell's Cove

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Beach Day at Lighthouse Field State Beach

Bonfire at Seabright State Beach

A Beach Bonfire in Santa Cruz at Twin Lakes SB

Surf at Natural Bridges State Beach

Photograph Monarch Butterflies at Natural Bridges' Monarch Grove

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