Overview:
Surf Beach is a public beach located on Vandenberg Air Force Base near Lompoc, CA. Access to Surf Beach is from the Amtrak train stop parking area along West Ocean Avenue. The areas north and south of Surf Beach are closed from March 1st through September 30th to protect the Snowy Plover bird nesting spots. If nesting area human violation limits are exceeded, the entire beach will be closed for the remainder of the birds nesting season, so read signs and avoid all nesting areas during this period
Adventure:
Surf Beach, or what the locals call Rocket Launch Beach, is a remote beach located on Vandenberg AFB. The beach is primarily best for surfing and windsurfing. If you are lucky enough to there on the right day, you might be able to witness a rocket launch from the beach.
Check out the Space Launch Schedule for the next rocket launch. The beach will be open or closed at the discretion of Vandenberg AFB during launches.
There is no fishing is allowed at Surf Beach since it is part of Vandenberg State Marine Reserve.
Surfers and bodyboarders use this beach, but it has been the site of two fatal shark attacks in recent years, so be aware. It is possible to walk south on the beach to some amazing colorful sea caves at minus tides. It’s too bad they are only accessible a few times a year (minus tides AND outside of the nesting season).
From October to February, you can also walk to Surf Beach from nearby Ocean Beach County Park, an excellent bird-watching spot.
Directions:
Surf Beach is located off Ocean Ave from Lompoc.
References and Links:
Morro Bay State Park
Morro Bay State Park makes a great destination for any van lifer looking to spend some time on the beach and explore Morro Bay. The park includes a beach, lagoon, and marsh habitat to explore. The park’s main adventures include sailing, golfing, fishing, surfing, hiking, and bird watching. The park also has a museum with exhibits that cover the history of the bay and surrounding areas.
Oceano Dunes SVRA
Oceano Dunes Natural Preserve is located 3 miles south of Pismo Beach and is one of the most expansive coastal dunes left in California. The preserve offers the opportunity to camp directly on the beach, go horseback riding and traverse the dunes in a doom buggy. You have the ability to drive your van and camp right on the beach which is a real treat in California.
