Pleasure Point & Eastside
🏄 The Soul of Santa Cruz Surf Culture
World-class surf breaks, local haunts, and the authentic beach lifestyle that defines Santa Cruz
Overview & Vibe
Pleasure Point is where Santa Cruz locals actually live and surf. This is authentic surf culture - not touristy, not pretentious, just people who love the ocean and the lifestyle. The Eastside stretches from the harbor to Capitola, with Pleasure Point (aka "The Point") as its heart.
The vibe is residential, laid-back, and deeply rooted in surf culture. You'll see locals checking the waves every morning, kids learning to surf, and multi-generational families who've lived here forever. It's less crowded than the Westside, more neighborhood-y, with pockets of great restaurants and surf shops.
Surf Mecca
Local Vibe
Great Food
Bike-Friendly
Top 10 Things to Do
Surf at Pleasure Point
Multiple breaks along the point - The Hook, Sewer Peak, Pleasure Point proper. World-class right point break. Intermediate to advanced.
Tip: The Hook is most beginner-friendly. Respect the locals and lineup.
Walk the Pleasure Point Coastal Trail
Paved path along the cliffs with surf viewing, benches, and ocean views. Less crowded than West Cliff.
Tip: Start at 41st Avenue, walk to Capitola. Perfect for sunset.
Eat on Portola Drive
The main drag with restaurants, cafes, and surf shops. Local favorite dining strip.
Tip: Try Pleasure Pizza, Aldo's, or one of the many taco spots.
Watch Surfers at The Hook
The most famous break. Watch from the cliffs - it's mesmerizing. Best in winter for big swells.
Tip: Bring binoculars. The cliff-top viewing area has benches.
26th Avenue Beach Access
Local beach access with stairs down to the water. Less crowded than main beaches.
Tip: Multiple stairways along the coast - explore different access points.
Bike to Capitola
Easy flat ride from Pleasure Point to Capitola Village. Scenic coastal route.
Tip: Rent a bike and make a day of it - stop for food along the way.
Sunrise at The Point
Early morning surf check and sunrise. Locals' favorite time - peaceful and beautiful.
Tip: Grab coffee at a local spot first, then watch the sunrise.
Explore 41st Avenue
Heart of Pleasure Point with shops, cafes, and the main beach access. Local hub.
Tip: Park here and walk the coastal trail in both directions.
Moran Lake Beach
Hidden gem beach between Pleasure Point and Capitola. Usually empty, great for families.
Tip: Access via Moran Lake Park. Free parking, less crowded.
Local Surf Shops
Check out authentic surf shops - not touristy chains. Talk to locals, get the real vibe.
Tip: Freeline, Paradise, and other local shops have the best local knowledge.
Best Restaurants
Pleasure Pizza
Local favorite, great pizza, casual vibe
Aldo's
Harborside dining, fresh seafood, views
Paradise Beach Grille
Right on the point, ocean views, breakfast
Betty's Burgers
Classic burgers, shakes, local institution
Taqueria Los Pericos
Authentic tacos, huge burritos, cheap
Suda
Fresh Thai food, local favorite
Riva Fish House
Harbor location, fresh catch, clam chowder
Café Brasil
Brazilian cuisine, great breakfast
Pono Hawaiian Grill
Poke bowls, Hawaiian plates, healthy
Coffee Shops & Cafes
Verve Coffee (Pleasure Point)
Local roaster, ocean views, perfect pre-surf coffee
$$ • WiFi • PatioCafé Brasil
Coffee + Brazilian food, breakfast favorite
$$ • Breakfast • Local vibeLocal Neighborhood Cafes
Several small cafes scattered throughout
$ • Neighborhood feelFamous Surf Breaks
The Hook
Beginner-IntermediateMost beginner-friendly at Pleasure Point. Protected cove, smaller waves. Crowded but mellow vibe.
Best Conditions: All year, best at low-mid tide
Sewer Peak
Intermediate-AdvancedFast, hollow wave. Can get heavy. Locals' spot - respect the lineup.
Best Conditions: Winter swells, mid-high tide
Pleasure Point (The Point)
Intermediate-AdvancedClassic right point break. Long rides, world-class wave. Can get crowded.
Best Conditions: Winter, mid tide
38th Avenue
IntermediateLess crowded alternative. Good waves, more space in the lineup.
Best Conditions: Year-round, various tides
Shopping Highlights
🏄 Surf Shops
- • Freeline Surf Shop: Local favorite, rentals, repairs
- • Paradise Surf Shop: Right at The Hook, local knowledge
- • Various local shops: Authentic, not touristy
🏪 Local Shops
- • Portola Drive: Small shops and boutiques
- • Neighborhood markets: Convenience stores
- • Bike shops: Rentals and repairs
Parking & Transportation
Parking
- • Street parking: Free, but limited near surf spots
- • 41st Avenue: Main parking area, fills early
- • Residential areas: Watch for permit zones
- • Best time: Early morning or weekdays
Getting Around
- • Bike: Best way - flat, bike lanes
- • Walk: Very walkable along coast
- • Bus: Metro routes serve Eastside
- • To Capitola: 5-10 min bike/drive
Insider Tips
🏄 Surf Etiquette is Serious
Pleasure Point has a tight-knit surf community. Respect the locals, wait your turn, don't drop in. If you're learning, stick to The Hook and stay out of the way.
🌅 Best Times
Early morning (6-9am) is magical - empty lineup, sunrise, local vibe. Avoid weekends if you want space.
🚗 Parking Strategy
Parking is tough near surf spots. Arrive early or bike. Don't block driveways - locals will call parking enforcement.
🏡 Residential Respect
This is a neighborhood, not a tourist attraction. Be respectful, quiet, and clean up after yourself.
Best Times to Visit
🌅 Early Morning (6-9am)
Best surf, empty lineup, sunrise, local vibe
☀️ Midday (10am-2pm)
Warmest, good for beach time, can be crowded
🌇 Sunset (5-7pm)
Beautiful coastal walk, sunset surf session