Deer Creek / California / United States

This is a pretty quiet spot that is often ignored, yet for those with experience it can be an interesting break with some decent waves.  It only holds a small number of surfers, but it is worth waiting for room or queuing for the takeoff point. 

This beach is sandy and clean, a decent size and almost always empty, which is fortunate as there isn’t really much space on the wave itself.  A thick wetsuit is needed in winter as the water gets quite cold,

The conditions are best when the wind is coming from the southeast or northeast and the swell is from the northwest or west.  You need to be on it at low or mid tide as it starts to rise, and then the swell will start at about 1m and reach a maximum of about 2.5m.  It breaks to the right over a reef, and the waves are nice and hollow.  Length is often short and averages about 50m, but some days will give a bit more and if you are lucky you might see 150m.

There are no facilities on this beach at all, other than parking which is by the highway and just above the steps to the beach.  Oxnard is to the north west along the highway, and is a good sized place that gives plenty of choice.  Alternatively, head the other way to Santa Monica which is about the same distance away.

The currents are strong at this spot, and the rocks need to be carefully avoided.  There are also frequent shark sightings around here, although they aren’t known to cause problems sensible precautions should still be taken.