Point Reyes Station serves as the gateway to some of Northern California's most dramatic and challenging surf breaks along the Point Reyes National Seashore. This small West Marin town offers essential surf shop services for those tackling the powerful, cold-water waves at nearby spots like Kehoe Beach and Limantour. The local surf shop provides crucial wetsuit rentals, board repairs, and invaluable beta on ever-changing conditions and hazardous rip currents that define this rugged coastline. Beyond surf essentials, Point Reyes Station delivers authentic small-town charm with farm-to-table restaurants, artisan bakeries, and oyster farms that make post-session refueling memorable. The town's proximity to pristine beaches, hiking trails through coastal wilderness, and abundant wildlife viewing—including elephant seals and migrating whales—creates a complete Northern California coastal experience. It's a practical base camp for serious surfers ready to earn their waves in raw Pacific conditions.
Point Reyes surfing is dictated by Pacific swells, making late fall through early spring the most consistent season for powerful waves. Local rhythms are slow; shops operate on reduced hours outside of peak summer weekends. Due to the remote nature of the location, it is highly advisable to call ahead before making a dedicated trip, especially during the off-season, to confirm opening times and rental availability.
The single documented shop typically focuses on essential gear for cold water conditions, meaning high-quality wetsuits (4/3mm or thicker), boots, and gloves are standard rental items. Expect basic surfboard rentals suitable for the often-chilly, variable conditions. Full custom shaping services may be limited or require significant lead time, as the focus is often on immediate needs for visiting surfers. Insider perks often include local knowledge on accessing less crowded breaks north of the main Point Reyes area.
Due to the cold California Current influence, surfers should anticipate needing a 4/3mm wetsuit as a minimum, even in summer. Most local shops recommend 5/4mm thickness, along with neoprene boots and gloves, particularly during the winter months for comfort and safety.
Point Reyes Station is inland; direct access requires driving to nearby coastal points like Limant Limant or Bolinas. The immediate region features varied breaks ranging from mellow beach entries to more exposed point breaks, requiring local guidance to navigate safely.
The primary surf shop focuses on traditional surfing equipment given the wave environment. While some shops in the greater West Marin area may offer SUP rentals, dedicated surf retailers here prioritize cold-water surf needs like boards and thick wetsuits over flatwater options.
Point Reyes Station serves as the gateway to some of Northern California's most dramatic and challenging surf breaks along the Point Reyes National Seashore. This small West Marin town offers essential surf shop services for those tackling the powerful, cold-water waves at nearby spots like Kehoe Beach and Limantour. The local surf shop provides crucial wetsuit rentals, board repairs, and invaluable beta on ever-changing conditions and hazardous rip currents that define this rugged coastline. Beyond surf essentials, Point Reyes Station delivers authentic small-town charm with farm-to-table restaurants, artisan bakeries, and oyster farms that make post-session refueling memorable. The town's proximity to pristine beaches, hiking trails through coastal wilderness, and abundant wildlife viewing—including elephant seals and migrating whales—creates a complete Northern California coastal experience. It's a practical base camp for serious surfers ready to earn their waves in raw Pacific conditions.