Loading up the van hours before the sun comes up. Strapping on logs, midlengths, twin fins, single fins… whatever we could possibly need. It was time to hit the road and head to one of the most pristine coastlines California has to offer, Big Sur.

We finally reached our camp spot after a few pit-stops and lots of coffee. The air felt different. A short stroll from Sand Dollar Beach, a fairly well-known spot right of Highway 1. The swells were big and frequent that weekend, making most places pretty daunting. Finding a clean, work-able wave involved some work and insider knowledge.

We spent the days pulling on our warmest wetsuits and stopping off at various turn-outs to scope the waves. With only a few eggy locals encountered, our spirits were high. Just to be in a near-empty lineup with a breath-taking backdrop made every moment of the trip worthwhile.

At night, a campfire was absolutely needed, as was layering up with every jacket you owned. We ate well. One night chimmichurri steak, the next a mouth-watering barbeque chicken. Some beers, some stories, and a star-scattered sky made these nights an absolute dream.

Heading south from Big Sur, we made a stop at Cayucos to catch up with Lars and friends in the quaint, peaceful town. 

The Central coast is undeniably refreshing if you’re from Southern California. A break from the hustle & bustle of the southern counties. We scored sick waves, swam at the base of an ice cold waterfall and seemed to always be laughing. It was a remarkable experience and a bonding one. It is trips like these that make you ask, when’s the next one?

Special thanks to nineplus for making this adventure possible