1 Verified Surf Shop

Surf Shops in Fairfax

Fairfax offers a unique Northern California experience just 20 miles north of San Francisco, blending small-town charm with serious outdoor culture. While you won't find waves breaking in this hillside town, the local surf shop serves as a vital resource for surfers heading to nearby coastal breaks at Bolinas, Stinson Beach, and Point Reyes—all within a 30-minute drive. The shop provides essential gear, repairs, and crucial local knowledge about which breaks are firing on any given swell. Beyond surf essentials, Fairfax's walkable downtown features excellent cafes, breweries, and farm-to-table restaurants perfect for post-session refueling. The town's deep roots in mountain biking and counterculture create a laid-back vibe that resonates with surfers. Use Fairfax as your basecamp for exploring Marin County's diverse coastline while enjoying a community that genuinely understands board sports and outdoor adventure.

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Why surfers love Fairfax

Planning tips before you visit

Fairfax, CA, serves as a gateway to Marin County breaks rather than a coastal hub itself. Surf trips generally target Stinson Beach or Bolinas, which are best accessed during the fall and winter for consistent groundswells. Summer often brings smaller, wind-affected conditions. Since the local shop supports regional surfing, booking lessons or equipment reservations in advance, especially for weekend trips, is advisable to ensure availability before you drive toward the coast.

Services & gear you'll find here

The documented local shop focuses heavily on supporting surfers accessing nearby Marin County locations. Expect comprehensive rental packages including wetsuits suitable for the cooler Northern California water temperatures. Services likely extend to board repair, handling dings common from rocky shorelines. While custom shaping might be available, inquire specifically about lead times, as the focus is often on immediate gear needs for day-trippers heading to the Pacific coast.

FAQs about surf shops in Fairfax

The most reliable surf swells near Fairfax occur between October and March, benefiting from strong Pacific storm systems. Summer months (June to August) are significantly smaller and often wind-affected, requiring more local knowledge to find rideable waves.

Yes, absolutely. Northern California waters remain cold year-round. Expect to need at least a 4/3mm full suit, with a 5/4mm and booties highly recommended during the winter months for comfort and safety.

Most regional surf shops bundle rentals. You should be able to secure a complete package including a board, wetsuit, and perhaps booties or gloves in one transaction, which is essential for a spontaneous trip to Stinson Beach.