Dillon Beach is a shifty beachbreak north of Point Reyes that earns its reputation more for access and ambiance than consistent high-performance surf. Best on a SW or W swell hitting 4-6ft, with E or NE winds keeping the face clean before westerlies build by late morning. High tide is the call here, as mid-to-low tide often exposes the Tomales Bay current influence, creating strong rips through the deeper gullies between peaks. Beginners and intermediates will find it manageable on smaller days, and the crowd stays thin except on hot summer weekends when tourists pad the lineup. Bottom: sand. Season: July through November. Consistency: high but often walled or mushy. Paddling out through the stronger rip channels on a big tide is the main hazard, not the wave itself. Dawn patrol is worth the effort to score it before the sea breeze arrives, and the shark history here is real enough to warrant awareness.
The vibe is welcoming and the lineup rarely fills up. Weekdays are near-empty. Summer weekends bring tourists and families to the beach, which occasionally spills into the lineup. No real localism to speak of, though basic lineup etiquette still applies.
Head west from Tomales along Dillon Beach Road. The beach is privately managed and charges a $7 parking fee. Camping is available nearby. Water quality is clean with minimal concerns. The shark attack history at this stretch of coast is documented, so stay aware, especially at dawn and dusk.
When Dillon is walled out or the current is running hard, Salmon Creek to the north and Point Reyes typically carry more size and better shape on the same swell. Both offer more consistent performance and are worth checking on any northern California road trip.
Forecast by Windy.app
