Asilomar State Beach
Sunset Drive, Pacific Grove (831) 646-6440, parks.ca.gov/asilomar
Is there surfing on other planets? And if there is, will it be as beloved as Asilomar is by locals? It’s good surfing almost year-round with parking right along the cliffs and easy access. Riptides and sneaker waves make it not the best choice for beginners, but for long-time surfers the waves can yield some long rides. As one surfer posted online, Asilomar is “good sunsets, good beach and pretty mellow people.”