Where to surf in California when the crowd packs the peak
100 spots across California
California can get claustrophobic on swell pulses, but shifting a few blocks or timing the tide flip often unlocks empty shoulders. Use this playbook to pivot quickly with backup spots, parking intel, and crowd-aware forecasting.
Less Crowded spots in California
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What to focus on
- Secondary peaks and tide windows that thin crowds
- Parking tricks and walk-in trails most visitors skip
- Forecast cues that trigger locals-only surges
- Nearby alternates when the primary target turns into a zoo