Los Osos

Baywood-Los Osos, California, United States

Once called “The Lost Coast” by Surfer Magazine, this rugged stretch of coastline boasts some of the best-kept secret surf spots in California. White sands, easy access and breaks that go on and on are just a few of the benefits of surfing around here. Some of California’s best beaches can be found here on our special stretch of Highway 1, and nearly all of them offer prime surf. Many lie along the pristine, protected coastline of state beaches. Mile after mile of beach break can easily be scouted from the highway — just pull over and give it a look. Fall is by far the best time to plan a surf trip on Highway 1. Glassy waters, sunshine, and long intervals between west swells are what make September and October the favorite season for surf. (It’s also the best time for everything from wine tasting and cycling to hiking and site-seeing, too: a real win-win.) That being said, cold water temperatures can get even chillier in fall, so be prepared with your neoprene. Most locals wear wetsuits year-round, and you’ll probably want to, too. Get out in the water early, before the Central Coast’s notorious wind picks up. Though the best-known spots are around Pismo Beach and Morro Bay, the less-crowded waves can be found up and down the coast. So throw your board and your wetsuit in the car. Time for your epic Lost Coast surf trip.

3550 Pecho Valley Rd
San Luis Obispo County, CA

This is one of Montaña de Oro’s most popular beaches, but don’t let that deter you: the waves are wide open. Spooner’s Cove is a protected inlet with wide, high cliffs, surrounding a freshwater stream and a picturesque beach. But locals think of it as three distinct surf spots: Lonesomes, A-Frames and Spooner’s. Most visitors park in the parking lot, just off Pecho Valley Road, across from the Spooner Ranch House. But the locals will tell you to park on the grass above the cliff overlooking Spooner’s Cove. Lonesomes breaks on the north point, in toward the cove. Catch it at its best, with swells from the northwest/west, and winds from the east/northeast. Swells can hold up to 16 feet or more, the best likelihood being during a falling tide. This right-breaking wave is named for the long, solitary paddle required to catch it. (Once again, experienced surfers only!) Watch for the reef rock standing in the middle of the cove.

3550 Pecho Valley Rd
San Luis Obispo County, CA

A-Frames lies in the middle of Spooner’s Cove, a ways out from shore. True to its name, this wave breaks both right and left, giving plenty of options for where to ride it. That being said, it can also combine with the left-breaking wave from Spooner’s to become a painful closeout. Some surfers only use A-Frames to practice big drops and tow-ins, as it’s pretty far out. If you choose to do that, too, take care to ensure that surfers aren’t in your path. Spooner’s is a left-breaking wave that rolls on the south point of Spooner’s Cove. In fact, many believe it’s the best big-wave break on the Central Coast, with 20-foot swells in good conditions. Spooner’s is world-class for its unexposed break — a rarity anywhere south of San Francisco. But with great power comes great responsibility: don’t attempt to surf Spooner’s on a whim. Catch it on a medium tide to avoid being forced into the rocks, but still able to get the swells. Come ready to paddle a lot and stay underwater a lot, as hold-downs can be long. On a good day, the barrel will be worth all the challenges.

Sand Spit Road

Baywood-Los Osos, California, United States

The long sandspit that connects Montaña de Oro State Park to Morro Bay is one of the most unique spots along Highway 1. This four-mile beach includes dunes stacked as high as 85 feet — as well as some of the best surf around. Literally anywhere you get in the water between Los Osos and Morro Bay along the sandspit will offer good waves, if timed right. Added benefits include a fantastic view of Morro Rock to the north, and a wide-open beach that’s practically empty. Swells come from the west and southwest, with winds to the north. The surf ranges from waist-high to several feet overhead; head out during low tide for the best conditions. (And, as a reminder, only experienced surfers should attempt Sandspit Beach.) To get to Sandspit, take one of two routes. Drive Pecho Valley Road and turn right to find the Sandpit day-use area. Park at the end of the road, where there’s a parking lot, restroom and picnic tables. The beach nearest the parking area can be accessed via a short trail, but Sandspit surf lies further out; be prepared to walk. Alternatively, access Sandspit Beach by parking at Morro Rock and paddling south across the channel.

Montana De Oro State Park

California, United States

Spooner’s Cove Beach At the point where Islay Creek drains into the ocean, Spooner’s Cove Beach offers a comfortable place to wade, explore tidepools, and picnic. Interesting rock formations invite climbers to play, particularly at low tide. The beach lies just across the street from the Islay Creek Campground, and allows dogs (on leash). As a central point in Montaña de Oro State Park, many trails begin nearby. Amenities include restrooms, picnic tables, and free parking. Find Spooner’s Cove Beach to the right, just before the campground. Sandspit Beach This long beach begs for long walks on soft sand, and the dunes beg for jumping! The sand spit that gives the beach its name continues north, almost all the way to Morro Bay. Amenities at Sandspit Beach include restrooms, free parking and picnic tables. To find the beach, make a right into the Sandspit day-use area, and look for parking at the end of the road. Then make the short walk on a trail to the beach. Enjoy views or Morro Rock and watch surfers ride the waves. Note: Sandspit Beach is an advanced surfing area. Sharks have been known to swim in these waters; surf at your own risk. Hazard Canyon Reef A dramatic, rocky section of coastline, Hazard Canyon Reef is one of the best tide-pooling locations in the state. Visit at low tide to see creatures like sea anemones, urchins, sea stars, and crabs in abundance. (Check tide information for best times to tidepool.) Other activities include walking 1.5 miles to Sandspit Beach to the north, and perhaps even several miles further into Morro Bay State Park. Find sand dunes near the parking lot to jump, roll and play on. Explore the reef by following the trail north from the parking lot to a deep drop to the water. Amenities include free parking and equestrian use. Surfing is also popular here, though this is an advanced surfing area; do so at your own risk. To find this beach, enter the park, pass the eucalyptus grove and look for the Hazard Canyon Parking sign.

Los Osos

Baywood-Los Osos, California, United States

Los Osos is home to the majestic Montaña de Oro State Park. A geologist and/or naturalist’s playground, Montaña de Oro is defined by its rugged cliffs, tucked-away sandy beaches, coastal plains, streams, canyons, and hills, with spectacular scenery produced through millions of years of volcanic activity, plate tectonics and erosion. Montaña de Oro is perfect for backpackers seeking solitude along quiet trails. Other trails include those for mountain biking and horseback riding. Spooner’s Cove, a beloved Montaña de Oro beach, is ideal for get-togethers, families, or sunbathing, with a seasonal stream flowing to the ocean, as well as restrooms, picnic facilities and parking. The peaceful area of the Morro Bay Estuary that fronts Los Osos-Baywood Park offers ideal kayaking conditions. Home to 250 species of birds and a favorite destination for avid birders, the back bay offers quiet waters and a new perspective on the Central Coast, especially at sunset. Many local companies offer equipment rental, including the Kayak Shack. For tours, Central Coast Outdoors leads kayakers for half-day and full-day itineraries around the back bay, and can even add picnics or California beach-style grilled dinners upon request.