Noriega / California / United States

This has to be one of the best beach breaks anywhere in the world, and it’s right in the city too. Beginners need not apply; this one is for experienced surfers only.

Sandy beach, public access. Park at the end of Noriega Street, cross the Great Highway and you’re on the beach. It is only a narrow strip but it’s pretty wide.

For this one to really work you want the wind direction to be northwest or west, and the swell to east or northeast. It will start working 1.5m or so and hold to 5m and over, and is best at low and mid tide. Waves are hollow, past and powerful and although the length is usually short they can reach 150m on a good day. Keep your eyes open for some long sets that roll in a few feet bigger than the typical wave that day – they’re worth waiting for. This is a very consistent spot, good for 150 days every year. There aren’t many surfers out during the week, but it gets busy at weekend.

This is right out of San Francisco city. It’s a good place to stay and use as a base for a number of good surfing spots, and it has plenty to keep anyone occupied when they aren’t surfing. There is a good range of accommodation and places to eat.

The rips are strong in this area and, of course, there are shark sightings. The paddle out can be long and tiring on big days, and I mean long – 30 minutes isn’t unusual.