Cape Elizabeth

Cape Elizabeth is a remote, rugged surf spot on the Washington coast in the Pacific Northwest. It’s known more for its scenery, power, and isolation than for easy, everyday waves.

General character

• Type: Exposed coastal break along a rocky, wild section of shoreline
• Setting: Remote, forested, and dramatic Pacific Northwest coastline
• Vibe: Quiet, uncrowded, and adventurous
• Best for: Experienced surfers comfortable with cold water, variable conditions, and a hike or scramble to access some spots

Waves

• Wave quality: Can be powerful and surfable when the swell lines up, but often inconsistent
• Wave type: Typically a mix of beachbreak and reef/rock influenced surf, depending on the exact section of coast
• Consistency: More seasonal and swell-dependent than mainland or urban breaks
• Size: Can handle solid winter swell, with stronger surf during larger storm systems

Conditions

• Water temperature: Cold year-round
• Wetsuit: Full winter suit is usually necessary, often with boots, gloves, and hood in colder months
• Hazards: Cold water, strong currents, rocky entries/exits, and possible marine debris or shifting sandbars
• Wind: Best on clean offshore or light wind days; coastal winds can make it choppy quickly

Best season

• Fall and winter: Typically the most reliable period for bigger, more powerful surf
• Spring/summer: Can still produce waves, but often smaller and less consistent

Who it’s for

Cape Elizabeth is best suited to surfers who: - are comfortable in cold, remote conditions - don’t mind hard access and few amenities - know how to read a dynamic, storm-driven coastline