Or,"Everything you need to know about getting to Half Moon Bay and the Mavericks surf break."

Where is The Wave?
Mavericks breaks over an ocean reef that is one-half mile off the coast of Pillar Point in Half Moon Bay, California. The reef is just outside of Sail Rock.

How do I get to Half Moon Bay?
From the North (San Francisco area) or the South (Santa Cruz area), CA Highway 1 (The Cabrillo Highway) is the route you want. Take the South Capistrano exit in El Granada to get into town, and proceed to our marked parking lots at the Pillar Point Harbor or Half Moon Bay Airport.

What about parking?
Due to traffic control and public safety considerations, the Princeton-by-the-Sea local township is closed to all non-resident and non-business vehicles on Contest Day. However, The Half Moon Bay Airport grounds are available for parking for $15 (follow the marked signs), and we'll run free shuttles from those lots out to the beach. Otherwise, please feel free to bring your bicycle or some sturdy walking shoes.

What if I’m flying into the area?
There are three major airports (Oakland, San Jose and San Francisco) within easy striking distance of Mavericks, plus two smaller fields (Salinas and Half Moon Bay).

• San Francisco International Airport
• Oakland International Airport
• Mineta San José International Airport
• Half Moon Bay Airport
• Salinas Airport
• Monterey Bay Airport

Where's the best place to watch the waves?
If you come to town on Contest Day, just follow the crowds and head for the beach. Be ready for a packed house, and be sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and an extra layer or two just in case. For a good look at the action, bring a powerful pair of binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens.

NOTE: IN AN EFFORT TO LIMIT CROWD IMPACT ON THE HALF MOON BAY AREA AND COASTAL ECO-SYSTEMS, WE ARE ENCOURAGING ALL MAVERICKS FANS TO WATCH THE CONTEST VIA FREE LIVE WEBCAST OR BY ATTENDING OUR LIVE VIEWING PARTY AT AT&T PARK IN SAN FRANCISCO. BOTH OPTIONS PROVIDE A MUCH BETTER VIEWING EXPERIENCE THAN THE VIEW FROM THE BEACH. Please be respectful of your surroundings.

Mavericks breaks in a National Marine Sanctuary, and the area on land around Pillar Point is part of the Fitzgerald Marine Reserve. This means it is an environmentally sensitive area. Please be cautious and aware of the safety hazards which exist as a result of the natural conditions at Mavericks. Please stay away from the cliff and out of the water. Proceed at your own risk. More on the Mavericks Environmental Program.