Shag Rock

Exposed pinnacle about 200 yards off Santa Barbara Island's north shore, taking the full brunt of the dominant northwest and west-northwest swell, with westerly energy arriving at near-full strength. The island knocks down south and southeast swell, but its short length lets long-period southern swell wrap around both ends, so noticeable surge persists during solid south events. This open-water location means conditions closely follow the prevailing Pacific swell, with strong currents common around the rock's base.