How do I read the surf forecast for Sand Dollar Beach?

Our forecast shows wave height in feet, swell period in seconds (longer = more powerful), swell direction, wind speed/direction, and tide times. Look for longer periods (10+ seconds) and offshore winds for the best conditions.

California • Monterey County • Buoy: 46028

Sand Dollar Beach

Q: What is the surf like at Sand Dollar Beach today?

Sand Dollar Beach currently has waves around 3-5. Conditions change throughout the day, so check back for updated forecasts.

Good

Wave Height

3-5

Swell

~7s

WNW

Wind

4mph

Sideshore (SSE)

Water

61°

4/3mm

Falling• Low in 2h 26m

Updated: 7/13/2026, 5:39:30 PM • Data: Open-Meteo

Accurate?

Surf Graph

Clean

Fair

Choppy

Flat

Tide Forecast

Today

L10:14pm2.5ft

Tomorrow

H4:32am6.9ft

L12:05pm-1.7ft

H6:46pm4.0ft

L11:11pm2.4ft

Wed, Jul 15

H5:23am6.8ft

L12:49pm-1.6ft

H7:27pm4.2ft

Thu, Jul 16

L12:09am2.2ft

H6:13am6.5ft

L1:31pm-1.3ft

Recent History

No recent history available

About Sand Dollar Beach

Sand Dollar Beach is Big Sur's only accessible surf beach, a dramatic crescent of sand framed by towering sea cliffs. The beach break picks up tons of open-ocean swell and can produce powerful, heavy waves. Access requires a short hike down from the Highway 1 parking area. The setting is absolutely world-class—rugged, wild, and remote. The water is cold year-round, and the isolation means you're on your own if something goes wrong. This is surfing at its most raw and beautiful.

FAQ

What is the water temperature at Sand Dollar Beach?

The current water temperature at Sand Dollar Beach is 61°F. A 4/3mm wetsuit with optional boots is recommended.

What is the surf like at Sand Dollar Beach today?

Sand Dollar Beach currently has waves around 3-5ft. Conditions change throughout the day, so check back for updated forecasts.

What time is high tide at Sand Dollar Beach?

Today's high tide at Sand Dollar Beach is at 11:41 PM ET. Tide times shift daily, so check our forecast for upcoming tide schedules.

What time is low tide at Sand Dollar Beach?

Today's low tide at Sand Dollar Beach is at 7:19 AM ET. Tide times shift daily, so check our forecast for upcoming tide schedules.

What are the best conditions for surfing Sand Dollar Beach?

Sand Dollar Beach works best with swells from the W, WNW, NW and E, NE, ENE winds (offshore). The ideal tide is low to mid.

Is Sand Dollar Beach good for beginners?

Sand Dollar Beach is recommended for experienced surfers only. The waves here can be powerful and conditions challenging. Beginners should look for more forgiving spots nearby.

This Week's Outlook

Wednesday afternoon looks like your best bet with 4ft waves, longer 14-second period, and light onshore winds cleaning things up. The evening high tide at 8:50 PM should give you some nice push too.

Updated 6/15/2026, 6:20:25 AM

Spot Info

Break TypeBeach Break

BottomSand

Skill LevelAdvanced

CrowdVery Light

Best TideLow to Mid

Best SwellW, WNW, NW

Best WindE, NE, ENE

ParkingUSFS day-use area ($12 fee), short hike to beach

Local Tip

Remote and powerful—don't surf alone. The scenery alone is worth the trip. Bring a 4/3 wetsuit minimum.