Mendocino Headlands Surf Forecast
Northern California

Current Conditions
Fair - GoodNever miss a good day at Mendocino Headlands
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Spot Guide
Mendocino Headlands is a raw and dramatic surf spot along the rugged Northern California coastline, where exposed rocky shelves and sea stacks create powerful, unpredictable reef breaks that reward experienced surfers willing to navigate the challenging entry and exit points. The spot faces northeast, picking up the powerful northwest swells that barrel down the Pacific during the winter months, producing heavy, hollow waves with significant punch. What makes this spot truly unique is its stunning natural setting within Mendocino Headlands State Park, where crashing surf meets dramatic bluffs and sea caves, making it as visually spectacular as it is technically demanding.
Forecast Charts
Daily Forecast
The sweet spot is around midday — 3-4ft waves, barely a breath of wind, fair - good conditions. It's a bit wonky first thing but settles down.
Early morning is your best window — 4-5ft waves on NW swell at 10s with barely a breath of wind. Conditions go downhill through the afternoon.
Steady 4-5ft waves on offer on NW swell at 10s — calm winds.
Expect 2-3ft all day on NW swell at 8s with glassy conditions — nothing amazing but surfable.
Consistent 2-3ft surf through the day on NW swell at 6s with barely a breath of wind.
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