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    Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA: 2 Surf Breaks | River-mouth & Beach | Quiver
    Home›United States›California›Carmel-by-the-Sea

    Best Surf Beaches in Carmel-by-the-Sea

    3.3·16 reviews
    2 beaches

    Surf Report Today

    Updated just now
    Poor Conditions

    Best Right Now

    Best of 2 Carmel-by-the-Sea spots

    Carmel River State Beach

    Surf score

    4/100

    Wave

    1.7 ft

    Wind

    Moderate

    Condition

    Poor Conditions

    Medium-period swell, moderate winds

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    Next steps

    Plan the next Carmel-by-the-Sea session

    Use the city guide for spot choice, then move into timing, water temperature, or tide context.

    Find the best surf windowCompare the local seasonality before choosing a day.Open page

    Featured Beaches

    2 spots

    Carmel River State Beach

    Intermediate

    South-facing cove with shifting bars at the Carmel River mouth.

    Garrapata State Beach (southern coves)

    Intermediate

    Series of coves offering angle variety on open-coast Big Sur.

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    Featured Beaches(2)

    Carmel River State Beach

    Intermediate

    South-facing cove with shifting bars at the Carmel River mouth.

    Garrapata State Beach (southern coves)

    Intermediate

    Series of coves offering angle variety on open-coast Big Sur.

    Best Time to Surf Carmel-by-the-Sea — Monthly Breakdown →

    Frequently Asked Questions

    About surfing in Carmel-by-the-Sea

    Carmel-by-the-Sea has 2 surf spots. They break down by skill level: 1 intermediate.
    The top-ranked surf spots in Carmel-by-the-Sea are: 1. Carmel River State Beach (3.3/5), 2. Garrapata State Beach (southern coves) (3.3/5). Rankings are based on community ratings, reviews, and recent surf intel.
    Carmel-by-the-Sea's surf spots are generally suited for intermediate to advanced surfers. Beginners should check individual spot reports for days with smaller, mellower conditions.
    Water temperatures in the area range from 55-72°F. In summer, spring suit or 3/2mm is typical. In winter, bring 4/3mm.

    More Surf Cities in California

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    Carmel River State Beach1.7 ftModeratePoor
    Garrapata State Beach (southern coves)0.6 ftModeratePoor
    Check Carmel-by-the-Sea water temperatureDial in gear before you head to the beach.
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    Watch the tide windowSee when tide timing helps the main breaks.Open page