Boneyard

📍 Local Knowledge

Boneyard in Santa Cruz (near Pacific Grove) is a semi-exposed, fast-loading reef break that lights up from September through February, with winter swells delivering its biggest, most powerful waves. It thrives on west to northwest swells paired with east to southeast winds and tends to perform best during an incoming mid tide, which helps smooth the bowl-like peak. The take-off zone is tight and often crowded, so it's best suited for intermediate to advanced surfers. Hazards include sharp rock reef, heavy local presence, and strong currents.