I'm not a surfer, but I figured if anyone would know the answer to this question, someone here would! I want to take photos of some strong waves/surf on the Big Sur coast, preferably in the spring when the greenery is out. I've been there in the summer (the water is flat) and in October (great surf but the landscape is too brown). I'm thinking the end of March, but would there be big/bigger waves in April or as late as mid-May? Thanks in advance!
(I want to take photos of some strong waves/surf on the Big Sur coast) I get that you want it all and all at once but mother nature is the determining factor. You'll have to be patient and catch an early spring and of course a good swell along with going out to that scenic spot you have on your mind and enjoy the days until you get what you want.
try andrew molera state park. It's a hike but well worth it. And, about 1/4 or 1/2 a mile south of the big sur nat'l park entrance is a hairpin turn on your right down a small narrow road. Take it for about 1-2 miles and you'll come to one of the most beautiful beaches on the coast with some wild and dangerous surf and currents. I can't remember the name of it but you might be able to find it on a map.
It's called pfeiffer beach (not to be mistaken for Julia Pfeiffer State Park) and it's 1/4 mile south of the Big Sur ranger station. Have fun. It's beautiful. I know of another secret surf spot that is AMAZING! But it's too hard to give directions and I can only find it when I'm there. Look for cars parked along the side of the highway about 1 mile south of the Big Sur Bakery and maybe you'll come across the path. You'd never know it was there. You have to do a long hike down the side of a cliff but it has some of the best waves in central cal when it's on. It's a tough place to surf, though and very localized. It's for big wave surfers.
You should be able to get some good surf at those times... Just keep an eye on weather, buoys and forecast and be ready to go when the surf dictates. You'll get some beautiful photo's there.
Thanks for all the replies! I guess I should narrow down my question. I would like to get out there in late march, but the trip may have to wait until mid-May. Will there be big surf at that time or has the weather already skewed into the summer pattern (flat water)? Juliaep--I think you are referring to Garrapata (there are two prominent sea stacks there). I've taken a lot of great photos there!
That whole stretch of coast has rugged surf and coastline. It'll be big and out of control way more often than it'll be calm. Summer is about the only time that place will calm down.
