The small surf community of Pleasure Point is located in an unincorporated area of Santa Cruz County, nestled between Moran Lagoon and 41st Avenue, adjacent to the Monterey Bay. Nearly a dozen famous surf breaks make this an ideal destination for skilled surfers. It’s a classic beachside town and the genesis of surf culture in Santa Cruz – home to wetsuit pioneer Jack O’Neill – where locals mix effortlessly with visitors eager to capture that authentic surf vibe.
The commercial hub of Pleasure Point sits at the cross of 41st Ave and Portola Dr. Numerous shops and boutiques line palm tree-fronted 41st Ave. You’ll find an endless array of surf and skate gear, beach apparel, coastal home decor, and vintage/resale clothing.
Enjoy some of Santa Cruz County’s favorite food and drink spots: The Penny Ice Creamery, Pleasure Pizza, and direct access to the weekly Live Oak Farmer’s Market.
Look for ‘The Hook’ – a popular surf spot with a scenic overlook that attracts onlookers at the southern end of 41st Ave. It’s a great place linger, scope surfers and boogie boarders and breathe in the beauty of the Monterey Bay.
For visitors inspired to visit an area because of its setting in a movie, Pleasure Point was one of the settings for Chasing Mavericks, a feature film that tells the true story of local surfer Jay Moriarty, starring actor Gerard Butler. Filming locations included East Cliff Drive, Pleasure Point Park, and on the legendary waves, among others. Download a movie map here!
Visit at the end of June for the annual Pleasure Point Street Faire. This event highlights all this little surf subsect has to offer: skateboarding, food trucks, games, and more! Take part in this celebration of a little slice of heaven to wave riders everywhere.