Surfing

National Geographic reveres Southern Humboldt’s wave as the “stuff of American legend”:

A big, consistent, year-round swell that washes onto a rocky shore with high energy and perfect curvature—fast, clean, with long, long sweeps. But here’s the real secret of the Lost Coast: The hidden wave is actually many.

Crescent-shaped Shelter Cove is reportedly where the first surfing in Humboldt County took place in the 1950s, and it remains the region’s most cherished surf spot. Surfers enjoy crowd-free coastline just about anywhere on the Redwood Coast, but the Lost Coast is particularly secluded. Deadman’s is the most popular shorebreak, particularly good during a south swell. Third Reef lies halfway between Deadman’s and No Pass, requiring a larger swell and low tide. Farther south is No Pass, a lefthander peeling along a horseshoe reef. Farther still you’ll find the rocky, righthand point break Gale Point, which requires a short paddle around Point No Pass and a walk down the beach.

It may go without saying, but surfing Shelter Cove comes with some safety precautions, especially in winter. Study the tide, surf with a buddy familiar with the area, and make sure you’re wearing a thick 5 mil suit, necessary in the frigid North Coast water.