Rincon Cove
Cobblestone right point at the Santa Barbara / Ventura county line. Long-period northwest groundswell magnet shaped by the Pt. Conception swell window and Santa Barbara Channel refraction.
When it’s on
Rincon Cove works best on a SW to NW swell. Light offshore wind from the northeast through east. Mid to low tide window.
Spot intel
- Parking
- Lot off the 101 at the Bates Road exit, about 40 spaces. Fills early when it’s breaking.
- Crowd
- Thick. Locals run the lineup.
- Beginner-friendly?
No.
A cobblestone point break with a heavy crowd and a strict priority order. Not a wave to learn on.
- Famous for
- The Queen of the Coast. A right-hand cobblestone point that links three sections under the right west-northwest swell. One of the best-known winter waves in California.
- Lineup etiquette
- Priority goes to the surfer deepest on the point. One wave, one rider.
Where it breaks
- Coordinates
- 34.3727, -119.4784
- Shore faces
- SSW
- Region
- Carpinteria, California
Common questions
- What swell direction is best for Rincon Cove?
- Rincon Cove works best on a SW to NW swell.
- How big does Rincon Cove need to be?
- Rincon Cove is best in the 3-12ft range on a 14-20s period.
- What are the best conditions at Rincon Cove?
- Light or offshore wind under about 8 knots, with the tide around 1-3.5ft.
- Where is Rincon Cove?
- Rincon Cove is a cobblestone right point in Carpinteria, California. The beach faces SSW.
- Does GhostFingers forecast Rincon Cove?
- Yes. GhostFingers grades Rincon Cove with a six-tier verdict from swell height, period, direction, tide, and wind. iPhone, winter 2026.
Nearby spots
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