Seaside

Seaside (Monterey Bay, California, USA) is a beachbreak along the central Monterey Bay coastline, known for being fairly accessible and often more exposed to open-ocean swell than some nearby sheltered spots. It can produce fun, peaky waves with sandbars that shift seasonally, so the shape and quality can change a lot.

Surf characteristics

• Wave type: Beachbreak
• Best swell: Works with W / NW swell and some S swell depending on the sandbars and conditions
• Wind: Usually best with light offshore or calm winds; onshore winds can make it messy quickly
• Crowds: Can get busy when conditions are good because it’s easy to reach
• Skill level: Often suitable for intermediate surfers, though beginners may find softer days manageable

What to expect

• The waves can be fast and punchy on a good day.
• Because it’s a sand-bottom beachbreak, there can be closeouts or sudden reforming sections.
• Conditions often vary by tide, sand movement, and recent storm activity.

Conditions and hazards

• Cold water year-round: a wetsuit is typically needed.
• Rip currents can be present.
• The spot can change after big swells or storms due to shifting sandbars.

Best time to surf

• Fall and winter often bring the most consistent swell.
• Early mornings are often best for cleaner wind conditions.