Mavericks Beach
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The biggest surf break of the Half Moon Bay area lures surfers from around the globe. Just off the coast, a short distance outside Pillar Point Harbor, Mavericks looms large on the horizon in winter months (November through March), when the storm swell pushes the surf into some of the biggest waves in the world. Originally named for the canine companion of a local surfer, Mavericks is better known to the world through Jeff Clark, a Half Moon Bay native who has surfed the break for more than 40 years.
A big-wave contest has been held at Mavericks since 1998, however the wave itself—a maverick—is nonconformist by nature and doesn’t perform on a set schedule. Contest-free years have occurred, but the surfers always show up when the wave comes out to play, whether there’s a cash prize or not.
The best break for beginner and intermediate surfers is the Half Moon Bay Jetty, also known as Surfers’ Beach. Just south of Pillar Point Harbor on Highway 1, this spot inside the lee of the jetty may be inconsistent at times, but it’s often protected from the northwest winds. Families with picnics are scattered along the sand, dogs and their humans stroll near the surf, while surfers of all stripes (boogie boards to shortboards to stand-up paddleboards) test the waves.
For more advanced surfers, there are a variety of breaks up and down the 5-mile beach that spans north from Half Moon Bay, but changing surf, wind, and sandbar conditions mean scouting is in order before committing to a spot. Other experienced surfers enjoy Montara Beach when the conditions are right. Check with local surf shops for their expertise.