Crissy Fields

Crissy Field is located within San Francisco Bay, a large protected bay system on the California coast. The beach faces northwest toward the bay's open water, with the Golden Gate strait proximity to the north. The spot features a shallow lagoon system behind the main beach, bordered by wide sandy/muddy flats and a developed waterfront with marina facilities. The bay setting provides protection from direct ocean swell, resulting in consistently small wave conditions (1.2m average). Wind is highly variable due to San Francisco's complex topography, with moderate reliability (2.8%). This location suits beginners and progression riders seeking protected water with minimal swell impact. The shallow lagoon allows for easy water entry and recovery but requires awareness of soft bottom conditions. Boat traffic in the marina area and navigation around piers demands attention. Best wind comes from the northeast (side-shore), though conditions shift frequently. Water temperature averages 13.4°C year-round, requiring appropriate thermal protection. The spot's primary advantage is its accessibility and forgiving conditions; the main limitation is low wind consistency and minimal wave energy.