How big does Hammond’s need to be?

Hammond’s is best in the 2-8ft range on a 12-20s period.

What are the best conditions at Hammond’s?

Light or offshore wind under about 8 knots, with the tide around 1-4ft.

Hammond’s is a long-period right point in Montecito, California. The beach faces SSW.

Yes. GhostFingers grades Hammond’s with a six-tier verdict from swell height, period, direction, tide, and wind. iPhone, winter 2026.

Cobble reef point at Hammond’s Beach in Montecito, east of Santa Barbara. A cobble and reef bar shapes a right that runs on west and northwest swell.

MontecitoFamous spot

Hammond’s works best on a SSW to W swell. Light offshore wind from the north through northeast. Mid tide window.

Parking

Free street parking in the Montecito residential streets above the beach. A posted public access path leads down to the sand.

Crowd

Thick and local. The takeoff zone is tight and the reef only holds one peak.

Beginner-friendly?

No.

A cobble reef with a tight priority hierarchy, a rocky entry, and a narrow takeoff. Not a beginner wave.

Famous for

The Montecito cobble reef, one of the best-known right points on the Santa Barbara stretch alongside Rincon.

Lineup etiquette

Priority on a point goes to the deepest rider. Paddling inside an active takeoff is the standard call-out.

What swell direction is best for Hammond’s?: Hammond’s works best on a SSW to W swell.
How big does Hammond’s need to be?: Hammond’s is best in the 2-8ft range on a 12-20s period.
What are the best conditions at Hammond’s?: Light or offshore wind under about 8 knots, with the tide around 1-4ft.
Where is Hammond’s?: Hammond’s is a long-period right point in Montecito, California. The beach faces SSW.
Does GhostFingers forecast Hammond’s?: Yes. GhostFingers grades Hammond’s with a six-tier verdict from swell height, period, direction, tide, and wind. iPhone, winter 2026.

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