Stinson Beach

Stinson Beach (Marin County) is a fairly exposed sandy beach break where surf is often most dependable around high tide. The coastline sits in an area known for a high concentration of Great White Sharks, and reports commonly emphasize that ocean conditions can be powerful, with rip currents and rocky/kelp elements adding to the risk. Water stays cold year-round (roughly the mid‑50s °F / low‑to‑mid teens °C range in winter and warming into the teens °C in summer), so cold-water preparation is a key part of planning. Summer months also bring reliable afternoon wind patterns (thermal/sea-breeze driven), supporting kite and other wind sports, while winter and spring can bring larger surf conditions. For wind sports, wind direction guidance varies by season, but the May through September window is consistently highlighted. Kiteboarding accounts point to SE/SSE/S/NW wind directions, with a typical wind range around 10–25 knots; some accounts also note a reliable NW sea breeze during the afternoon. Surf-focused accounts note the break can be groomed by favorable offshore winds, and that the wave shape is often described as peeling. Safety-wise, stay mindful of the combination of hazards (sharks in the Red Triangle area, sharks noted as a specific concern; rip currents; rocks; and kelp/bull-kelp). For kiteboarding, follow any zone restrictions and the guidance to remain near breaking waves (about 100 ft) to avoid unpredictable conditions further offshore, and plan for seasonal lifeguards rather than permanent coverage.