// Free Gear Checklist
Our free Beginner's Surf Guide has the exact gear checklist — what to buy first, what to skip, and how to pick a board and wetsuit that won't hold you back. Free, instant.
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// 3 Surf shops listed
Boards, wetsuits, wax and ding repair — with ratings, phone numbers and directions for each.
Seasonal averages for California — not a live surf report for this beach. California surf seasons in full
// The Lineup
Ranked by rating confidence — review volume counts, not just the score.
From 8 reviews
517 Airport Way Suite Q
Friendly staff
From 3 reviews
517 Airport Way Suite Q
Friendly staff
693 Lighthouse Ave
Rentals · Good prices · Friendly staff
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers overwhelmingly praise the extremely friendly, welcoming, and knowledgeable staff, frequently mentioning specific employees like Kelly…
These shops stock quality cold-water gear—thick wetsuits, booties, and hoods essential for year-round surfing in 50-60°F water. Staff offer crucial local knowledge about tide-dependent breaks, kelp navigation, and wildlife awareness, from sea otters to occasional great whites. Beyond boards and wax, you'll find repair services that keep your quiver running and rental options if you're testing the waters. Between sessions, Monterey delivers with Cannery Row's seafood restaurants, the world-class Monterey Bay Aquarium, and scenic coastal drives along 17-Mile Drive. The town's surf culture runs deep, supported by shops that understand the unique demands of Central California's powerful, often challenging waves. Whether you're gearing up for Asilomar's reefs or Carmel Beach's beach breaks, these shops have you covered.
Monterey surf conditions are best approached during the fall and winter months for larger swells, though the water remains cold year-round. Local rhythms dictate early morning sessions, especially near spots like Pleasure Point or Capitola, as fog can roll in quickly. Given the limited number of documented shops, booking wetsuit rentals or lessons in advance, particularly on summer weekends or holidays, is highly recommended to secure your gear. Before going in, check the local beach forecast and talk to the lifeguard on duty (National Weather Service advice).
The local surf shops cater primarily to cold-water surfing, meaning thick wetsuits (4/3mm or thicker) and appropriate boots/gloves are standard rental inventory. Expect offerings ranging from beginner soft-tops to high-performance shortboards. Most establishments provide essential repair services for dings and minor tears using quick-set epoxy suitable for the cool climate. While custom shaping is less common than in Southern California, inquire about local shapers affiliated with the shops for unique board options.
Due to the consistent influence of the cold California Current, a 4/3mm full wetsuit is the minimum requirement year-round. During winter months (November through March), many experienced surfers opt for a 5/4mm suit, often supplemented with 5mm boots and 3mm gloves for comfort.
Most documented surf shops offer flexible rental packages, typically structured around half-day (4 hours) or full-day rates. Ensure you confirm the closing time when renting, as returning gear late may incur additional charges, especially if you are renting specialized cold-water gear.
The National Weather Service's advice applies here: only swim at a beach with lifeguards, check the local beach forecast and talk to the lifeguard before going in, and remember that rip currents often form on calm, sunny days. If one catches you, don't fight it: relax and float, wave and yell for help, or swim parallel to the beach until you're out of the pull.
