Fun, forgiving beachbreak peaks along a wide crescent of sand about 30 miles north of San Francisco, Stinson Beach is a mellow option when the swell is small and clean. SW and W swells in the 2-5ft range are the sweet spot here, with NE or glassy winds keeping faces clean. The break works across all tides, though higher tide tends to produce softer, more manageable walls. Beginners and intermediates will find this welcoming, crowds are generally light to moderate and the local vibe is relaxed. Bottom: sand. Season: September through April. Consistency: medium. One honest warning: shark sightings are frequent in this stretch of water and there have been confirmed attacks, so stay aware and avoid surfing at dawn and dusk when activity increases.
The lineup is welcoming with no notable localism. Weekend crowds can bring a handful of surfers but it rarely gets competitive. Beginners can paddle out without feeling pressure, making this one of the more approachable spots on the Marin coast.
Take Highway 1 from 101 and follow the signs straight to the state park lot adjacent to the beach. Lifeguards patrol in summer. A snack bar is on site. Parking fees apply at the state park. Water quality is generally clean.
When Stinson closes out in bigger swell, check the beachbreak lefts near the Bolinas Lagoon mouth a few minutes up the coast for a more sheltered option. Further north, Salmon Creek offers shiftier, punchier peaks for surfers looking for more power.
Forecast by Windy.app
