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El Capitan Surf Report
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·point·Santa Barbara, CALoading beach details...
Conditions not favorable for surfing.
El Capitan is a point break in Santa Barbara, CA suited for advanced surfers. It picks up swells from WSW to NW (250°-310°). Best surfed at 1-4ft. Hazards include rocks, strong currents, localism. Prime season runs January, February, March, October, November, and December. Expect crowded crowds. Offshore winds come from NE (45°). When a strong west swell wraps into this secluded point, El Capitan can produce 300-yard right-handers with barrel sections, but it's fickle and often flat. The take-off is steep over boulders and reef, making it best for experienced surfers. Low to mid tide, light NE wind, long-period W-WSW swell Line up with the cliff and commit to the steep take-off; connect the sections for long rides.
Wait your turn and avoid paddling around others; locals enforce the lineup etiquette strictly.
Insider tips from local surfers
Line up with the cliff and commit to the steep take-off; connect the sections for long rides.