Depressions is a surf spot located in Ventura and Santa Barbara, California. This beach break is situated in Isla Vista, near the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB). The spot provides both left and right waves. Depressions is known for its sand bottom and works best during low to medium tides. The waves here are suitable for surfers of all experience levels. The spot typically has a length of less than 50 meters and often sees few surfers in the lineup. Depressions can occasionally produce quick and tubey shoulders, making it a decent option when other spots are too disorganized, especially during wind swells. It’s considered a routine beach break that can be a good choice if you’re in the neighborhood or looking to nurse a hangover. To access the spot, park on De la Playa and walk down to the beach. Alternatively, you can park at the east end of Del Playa Drive in Isla Vista or on campus at the end of Lagoon Road near Campus Point Beach. The spot gets its name from a depression in the nearby ocean bluffs where the UCSB Lagoon empties into the Pacific Ocean, creating a natural sandbar offshore that contributes to wave formation. During short-period wind swells, Depressions can offer semi-slabby waves with occasional barrels. On long-period ground swells, waves may rebound off the rocks near Campus Point, creating barreling left-hand waves. Nearby spots include Campus Point, Goleta Rock, Devereux, Sands, and Rockpile. While generally less crowded, it can get busier on weekends. Surfers should be aware of strong rip currents in the area. As with any surf spot, it’s important to check the surf forecast and report before paddling out. Always respect the locals and follow proper surf etiquette, especially when the spot is crowded. Check your skills before entering the water to ensure the spot and conditions match your surfing level. Remember to use a surf map or check for webcams to get a better idea of the conditions before your session. Check out the good surf at Depressions in the next 7 days, the webcams, the full forecast report, or see the spot on the surf map.
Tides have a significant impact on wave quality at certain surf spots like Depressions, causing conditions to vary throughout the tidal cycle. As the tide moves between high and low, the water depth over the seabed changes, affecting how the waves break. At these spots, high tide usually produce softer, slower waves, while low tide can generate faster, steeper waves. Some spots have specific tide stages when they work best, offering optimal conditions only at certain times of the day.
Near spots
There are 56 surf spots within a range of 100 km from Depressions. Use this section to find alternative spots that may be less crowded, better suited for your surfing skills, or offer a better forecast report for the next 7 days. Each spot includes detailed surf reports, forecast updates, and webcam views to help you plan. Whether you're seeking less crowded alternatives or simply exploring a region, the list of nearby surf spots is an essential tool.
See all 56 surf spots