Riding the Waves: Celebrating Surf Culture at Carmel Beach

Carmel-by-the-Sea, with its pristine white sands and turquoise waters, is more than just a picturesque coastal town—it's a haven for surfers and ocean enthusiasts. The upcoming Annual Carmel Surfabout, scheduled for June 7–8, 2025, at Carmel Beach, promises a weekend filled with exhilarating surf competitions and community camaraderie.

The Annual Carmel Surfabout: A Community Tradition

The Carmel Surfabout is a cherished local event where Monterey County surfers and their families gather for friendly competition and celebration. Set against the backdrop of Carmel Beach, participants of all ages showcase their skills, from seasoned surfers carving through waves to young groms catching their first rides.

Surf Conditions: What to Expect

Carmel Beach offers an exposed beach break that works year-round, with offshore winds typically blowing from the east. Groundswells are more frequent than windswells, and the ideal swell angle is from the west. The beach break provides both left and right-handers, best around mid-tide when the tide is rising. As of early June, surf forecasts indicate wave heights ranging from 3 to 5 feet, with water temperatures around 54°F—ideal conditions for the Surfabout weekend.

Surfing Hotspots Around Carmel

Beyond Carmel Beach, the Monterey Peninsula boasts several notable surf spots:

Asilomar State Beach: Located in Pacific Grove, Asilomar is known for its consistent waves and scenic beauty. It's suitable for surfers of varying skill levels, offering both challenging and manageable sections.

Lovers Point: Also in Pacific Grove, Lovers Point is a versatile spot popular among surfers, bodyboarders, and kayakers. Its gentle waves make it ideal for beginners and those seeking a relaxed session.

Del Monte Beach: Situated in Monterey, Del Monte Beach offers a long stretch of sand with waves suitable for beginners. Its accessibility and mellow conditions make it a favorite for surf lessons and casual outings.

Ghost Tree: For the more adventurous, Ghost Tree in Pebble Beach is a renowned big wave spot. Breaking off Pescadero Point, it can produce waves up to 60 feet high under the right conditions. However, it's considered one of the most dangerous waves globally due to its powerful surf and rocky bottom.

Local Surf Shops Anchoring the Scene

No surf community is complete without its local surf shops—places where boards are waxed, wetsuits are fitted, and stories are shared. Two standout spots that help anchor the surfing spirit on the Monterey Peninsula are:

On The Beach Surf Shop (Monterey): A true local staple, On The Beach has been outfitting surfers since 1986. Whether you're picking up a new board, grabbing gear, or just chatting tide conditions with the folks behind the counter, this shop is woven into the fabric of Monterey's surf scene.

Carmel Surf Shop (Carmel-by-the-Sea): Quickly becoming a favorite for both locals and visitors, this newer shop embodies the laid-back yet stylish surf culture of Carmel. They carry everything from quality surfboards to cozy apparel and beach accessories, and they’ve built a strong community presence through local events and collaborations.

These shops don’t just sell surfboards—they help sustain the lifestyle. Swing by either spot before or after Surfabout weekend for gear, tips, or just to soak in some surf-town energy.

Notable Surfers from the Monterey Peninsula

The region has produced several respected surfers who have contributed to its rich surf heritage:

Peter Davi: A legendary figure in the local surf scene, Peter was both a commercial fisherman and a professional surfer. His passion for the ocean lives on through his son, Jake Davi, who continues the family tradition of surfing and fishing.

Fred Van Dyke: One of the earliest known surfers of Ghost Tree, Fred bodysurfed the formidable wave alone in the early 1960s, showcasing remarkable courage and skill.

Lessons & Rentals: Catching Your First Wave

For those new to surfing—or just visiting without gear—there are great options for lessons and rentals in the area:

Monterey Bay Surf Lessons (based out of Del Monte Beach) is a trusted local outfit offering private and group lessons for all ages. Their instructors are knowledgeable, encouraging, and know the local breaks like the back of their hands—making it a perfect place for beginners to safely get stoked on surfing.

On The Beach Surf Shop also offers board and wetsuit rentals, along with expert advice on where to paddle out based on current conditions.

Embracing the Surf Lifestyle

Surfing in Carmel is more than a sport—it's a way of life that reflects the town's connection to nature and community. Whether you're a seasoned surfer or a curious observer, the Annual Carmel Surfabout offers a glimpse into this vibrant culture. Join the celebration and experience the thrill of the waves, the warmth of the community, and the beauty of Carmel's coastline.

For more information on the Carmel Surfabout and other local events, visit CarmelCalifornia.com.

Photo by Linus Nylund on Unsplash