Princeton Breakwater

Princeton Breakwater is a surf spot located in Bay Area, California. It’s situated near the town of El Granada in San Mateo County, easily accessible from Highway 1. The spot provides both left and right waves. Princeton Breakwater has a sand bottom and is suitable for surfers of all levels. The waves here sometimes break, with a length of less than 50m. The spot is known for its shifting peak, which is closest to the jetty. It breaks well between tides, but high tides can push the breaks too close to the shore. With a 5′ and up swell, there are left waves off the peak. The beach break is fine from 3′ and up but often sections. Rocks can be a problem depending on the time of year and at high tide. Surfers should be aware of potential shark presence in the area. The crowd is typically few surfers, but it can get busier on weekends. It’s a good spot without the localism often found in Santa Cruz. From the lineup, you can see Mavericks in the distance. Parking is available right at the beach, with additional parking in a dirt lot across the highway. The spot is sheltered from northwest winds by a long jetty. Best conditions occur with southwest swells and northeast winds, with low to medium tides being optimal. Water temperature is cold, so proper wetsuit gear is recommended. Check your skills before paddling out to make sure the spot and conditions fit your surfing level. When the spot is crowded, it’s important to respect the locals and follow surf etiquette. For beginners, moving further down the beach from the jetty can provide less crowded areas to practice. Nearby surf spots include Mavericks, Francis Beach, Montara, Gray Whale Cove, and Linda Mar. The area was historically inhabited by Ohlone tribes, with the Chiguan Ohlones calling the place Ssatumnumo. Today, Princeton-by-the-Sea (sometimes just called Princeton) is an unincorporated community with a population of about 297 as of 2000. The annual Mavericks surfing competition actually takes place in Princeton, although it’s often attributed to neighboring Half Moon Bay.