Del Monte Beach (Seaside)

Del Monte Beach in Seaside is primarily known for wind sports, especially kitesurfing, thanks to consistent afternoon NW thermal/sea-breeze winds in the spring and summer. Conditions are commonly described as chop and small-to-medium wave energy over a sandy bottom, with a wide sandy launch area that makes rigging and launching easier than at many rockier or more constrained breaks. For kitesurfing, descriptions emphasize shallow, flat water mixed with chop and occasional small wave elements—supporting freeride and wave practice. Kite sizes are commonly cited in the 8–12 m range, aligning with typical wind strengths of roughly 15–25 knots during the thermal peak. Wind reliability is described as good through spring and summer, with strongest winds typically arriving in the afternoon. Surfing is possible from the beach on an exposed sandy beach break that breaks for long distances over sand and can be beginner-friendly, but wave quality is described as average to good and can be prone to closing out on larger swell. Northwest winds can add heavy chop, with one note saying conditions are best for surfing in lighter morning winds. The overall surf setting is exposed to the open coast, so shorebreak and mixed wave shapes are part of the picture. Safety-wise, the coastline is part of a wild ocean environment and the region is noted for great white sharks; in-water hazards also include kelp patches and the risk of rip currents and shorebreak. Full wetsuit protection is strongly emphasized year-round due to cold Pacific waters (with hood/booties recommended), and seasonal lifeguards are noted. Follow local access and swim-zone rules, and avoid riding too close to nearby waterfront areas.