Steamer Lane

“Be the board” is the mantra of bodysurfers. Defined by a beautiful simplicity and a oneness with natural forces, bodysurfing takes wave riding to its essential roots. It’s also a blast. Santa Cruz boasts some of the best bodysurfing breaks in the world, with waves tailor-made for every skill level. Beginners love getting their feet…

Locals and visitors have been drawn to the Santa Cruz waves since 1855 when three Hawaiian princes showed up to surf the mouth of the San Lorenzo river on their redwood boards. Weighing 150-175 lbs. and measuring 17 feet long, the boards were designed o’lo style, a shape reserved for Hawaiian royalty. Surfing has evolved…

There’s a reason people call Santa Cruz “surf city”—Santa Cruz’s waves accommodate all levels of surfers, whether they charging big wave spots or just want to get their feet wet. While there are numerous beaches that are great for visitors and beginning surfers, there are also dangerous and local spots that surfers should be aware…