A Beginner’s Guide to Surfing Pleasure Point

Welcome to the Point. Whether you’re grabbing a rental board for the first time or looking to transition from soft tops to fiberglass, Pleasure Point is one of the most iconic, scenic, and consistent stretches of coast in California.

Because Pleasure Point features multiple sections peeling along the point, it truly offers something for every possible kind of waverider—from shortboarders to longboarders and everyone in between. But because it accommodates everyone, this place is incredibly popular. Before you suit up and wax down, you need to understand how the lineup is divided, how this place ticks, and where you fit in.

The Golden Rule of the Point

If there is one general rule to keep in mind, it is this: the waves get larger, faster, and more powerful as you move up the point. Consequently, the caliber of surfing and the level of competition increase the further up the point you go.

Pleasure Point is divided into several distinct reef breaks and takeoff spots. While the "main break" usually refers to the entire point break setup or the highest-profile peak in the area, the wave changes drastically from top to bottom.

Understanding the Breaks

1. Sewers: Located at the very top of the point, this is the fastest and most competitive section. It is considered a quality wave on the point, but it comes with a tight crowd. If you are renting gear and are new to the game, stay well clear of this zone.

2. First Peak: Located just down the line from Sewers, this is a specific, premier section of the point. It is a high-performance right-hand wave that primarily favors shortboarders because of its steeper, more tapered walls and faster breaking speed. While it can occasionally shift around and offer long, slopey walls, it remains a fast, crowded zone for experienced riders.

3. Second Peak: Located further down the line toward 38th Avenue, this is a much softer, slower-breaking wave. Because the edge is taken off the power here, it is an ideal zone for longboarders and intermediate surfers looking to progress.

4. 38th Ave / Jack’s: Named after the legendary innovator and wetsuit pioneer Jack O’Neill, who lived in the prominent green house overlooking the break for many years. This zone needs a bit more swell to really activate, but when it clicks, it offers incredibly fun, easy, and gentle rollers. This is a classic, forgiving arena perfect for longboarding and learning the basics.

5. The Hook: Located near 41st Avenue, The Hook is a classic right-hander that is a complete mixed bag. Because it offers fun, rolling waves but can also handle decent size and get a bit faster, you will see a real blend of talent here. Expect to share the lineup with highly skilled local surfers alongside determined beginners and adult learners.

6. Sharks: Sitting further down-point, this spot offers plenty of space and mellow lines. It is an excellent option for beginners trying to get their sea legs without the pressure of the upper peaks.

7. Privates: This is the most sheltered spot offering slow, easy takeoffs. It can shut down if there is little to no swell but usually breaks on a lower tide.

Where to Park and Access the Water

If you park near our shop at Sunny California, you are within easy walking distance of the area's best beginner-friendly breaks. Drop in to rent your board or full suit, then take a short walk to the primary access points. There is also a parking lot at the hook, which fills up quickly.

• 38th Ave Stairs: Perfect for dropping right into the Jack's and Second Peak zones.
• 41st Ave Stairs / The Hook Lot: Ideal for checking out The Hook, Privates, and the lower point breaks.

Before You Paddle Out: Safety & Tide Checks

Never just run down the stairs and jump straight into the water. Spend 10 to 15 minutes watching the conditions, observing where people are catching waves, and plan your exit. Don't be the person who requires lifeguards to risk their necks to save you.

Watch the Tide: When the tide gets full, the water pushes right up against the cliffs, making it incredibly difficult and dangerous to exit at some of the stairs (especially the steep walk up at The Hook). 

Don't Fight the Current: If you get washed past your planned exit stairs, do not try to fight the waves and the heavy current pulling down the point to get back to them. Keep your cool, drift with the current, and look to exit at the next set of stairs down the point rather than exhausting yourself. 

Lineup Etiquette

Because the lower sections of the point accommodate learners, you will see plenty of other people finding their footing out there. However, standard lineup etiquette still applies. If you respect the ocean and your fellow surfers, you will have a stellar time.

• Observe and Post Up: When you paddle out, don't immediately paddle into the peak. Post up on the shoulder, watch how the lineup is moving, and get a read on the crowd.
• Be Cool: Wait your turn. Say hello, be friendly, and keep the vibes positive. It’s basic human decency, and it goes a long way in the water.
• Don't Backpaddle: If you paddle around everyone to jump to the front of the line (backpaddling), don’t be surprised if someone drops in on you.
• Understand Priority: Surfing has a lot of nuances. It is not always a matter of "whoever is closest to the peak first gets the wave." Watch how others are interacting and respect the flow of the lineup.