1 Verified Surf Shop

Surf Shops in San Anselmo

San Anselmo offers a unique inland surf culture in Marin County, serving as a convenient stop for surfers heading to nearby coastal breaks at Stinson Beach, Bolinas, and Point Reyes. The town's surf shop provides essential gear, repairs, and valuable local beta about North Bay wave conditions—critical intel for navigating the region's temperamental swells and fog patterns. Beyond surf essentials, San Anselmo charms with its walkable downtown featuring independent bookstores, cafes, and farm-to-table restaurants along San Anselmo Avenue. The town sits perfectly positioned for exploring Marin's outdoor offerings, from Mount Tamalpais trails to the dramatic Pacific coastline just 30 minutes west. Stop in to dial in your wetsuit thickness for Northern California's cold water, grab wax, or get a ding repaired before chasing waves along the rugged Marin coast.

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Why surfers love San Anselmo

Planning tips before you visit

San Anselmo is inland, requiring a drive to access ocean breaks like Stinson Beach or Bolinas. Summer months offer smaller, more manageable waves ideal for beginners, while winter brings larger swells demanding more experience. Local shops often operate on standard retail hours, but calling ahead is recommended, especially outside peak weekend times. Plan your gear acquisition before heading to the coast to avoid delays.

Services & gear you'll find here

The single documented surf shop in San Anselmo focuses on supporting the Marin County surfing community. Expect comprehensive rental packages including wetsuits appropriate for the cold Pacific waters, typically 4/3mm thickness year-round. While major repairs might be outsourced, basic ding repair kits and essential accessories like wax and leashes are standard stock. Inquire about local knowledge regarding current conditions at nearby beaches, as this regional expertise is a key perk.

FAQs about surf shops in San Anselmo

San Anselmo itself is inland, but nearby coastal spots like Stinson Beach maintain cold temperatures year-round. Expect water readings between 52°F in winter and 62°F in late summer. A quality 4/3mm wetsuit is generally the minimum requirement for comfort.

No. San Anselmo is situated in Ross Valley, requiring a significant drive, usually 30-45 minutes minimum, to reach the nearest reliable ocean access points such as Stinson Beach or Muir Beach. Plan travel time accordingly.

Yes, local shops cater to all levels. They stock foam boards or soft tops ideal for learning the basics at gentler spots like Stinson. Ensure you reserve larger volume boards in advance, especially on summer weekends.