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Surf GuideCalifornia

The Rivermouth

A fickle San Lorenzo River mouth sandbar in Santa Cruz that, when it lines up after heavy rain, produces steep, rippable walls and occasional barrels that peel both ways over a sandy bottom. Get the latest surfing conditions, forecast, and tide details for The Rivermouth in California.

Break TypeRiver Mouth
Skill LevelIntermediate - Advanced
LocationCalifornia, US

Forecast

Fair
  • Waves 3-4 ft
  • Period 6 s
  • Wind W 1 kt

As of:

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Tide curve (forecast)

2.1 ftfalling

Low 5:42 AMHigh 12:05 PMLow 5:50 PMHigh 11:51 PMNowSat 8/29
Today ranges from 0.4 ft to 4.9 ft. Currently 2.1 ft and falling.
  • Low0.4 ft
  • High4.6 ft
  • Low1.5 ft
  • High4.8 ft
View live tide chart
Spot Guide

Lineup Insights

The Wave

Strong sand transport and levees mean the rivermouth only builds a reliable peak after significant rain or river flushes, and when it does the peak can be short-lived and attract crowds quickly.

Works best on long-period South-Southwest to South swells with light northerly offshore breeze.

Low to mid tides favor the steep, hollow sections while high tide often softens the takeoffs.

Lineup Guide

Pollution and seals are occasional hazards to watch.

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