Freezing and thrilling aptly describe the surf destinations in the Bay Area. From soft two, foot waves at Bolinas, to 12 footers out in Point Reyes, the Bay has all the options.

Whether you’re a beginner or a long time shredder, you will definitely be able to find somewhere you will leave satisfied.

Bolinas is mostly known for learning how to surf or riding longboards and has two surf spots the “patch” and the “groin.” The patch rarely has waves, and rocks and seaweed lay below the surface, but when the patch is good, it will have masses of people anxiously waiting on their longboards.

The groin is where most people go to surf at Bolinas. Normally surfers ride down the channel on anywhere from one to six foot waves.    

On the southern Marin coast are the popular surf destinations Rodeo Beach, or Fort Cronkhite (Cron) and Muir Beach. I never expect much from Muir when I go other than four to five foot rough and difficult waves with a strong current and dumping swell.

Cron, on the other hand, is one of the top destinations for Marin surfers for good reason.  Following a short paddle out there are decently sized waves with regular barrels.

Cron is where I started going after I graduated from Bolinas. After a few nasty wipeouts, I adjusted and Cron is the place I count on for some sweet waves. One downfall is the presence of boogie boarders who snake people’s waves.

Point Reyes surf is a whole other level. With Drake’s Beach, Kehoe, and North Beach, Point Reyes is no place to mess around. Each beach consistently has large waves with a strong rip and there is often a shorebreak. Yet it doesn’t stop thrill seeking surfers from entering the water.

The strong rip and large waves are not the only dangers of surfing here. A woman was bitten by what she estimated was a “12 foot shark” at Drakes Beach on Dec. 30, 2017 according to The Press Democrat.

Over the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco has two well known destinations. Known for its long stretch of sand and bonfires, Ocean Beach is a solid place to surf. I recommend this beach for experienced surfers because of the large waves and strong rip.

Located right under the bridge lies Fort Point. At times Fort Point looks like a lake, but when there are huge and powerful waves it takes courage to enter the water. Avoid hitting the rocks under the surface, Fort Point is only for advanced surfers.