What is a sneaker wave and why are they potentially dangerous? A sneaker wave is an unexpectedly large wave, higher, stronger and reaching farther up the beach to levels far beyond where the normal waves reach. Beach goers, particularly children, can quickly be caught in the rip current and pulled out to deep water. If the person can not escape the current, they may drown. This has occurred numerous times at Point Reyes National Seashore beaches. Sneaker waves also have the ability to toss around large driftwood logs that may fall on a person, injuring or even killing them.

Even though the ocean may appear calm, there is still the potential for sneaker waves. Larger waves, moving fast, pick up smaller waves and carry them toward the beach. Some people erroneously think that sneaker waves can be predicted, i.e., every fourth or fifth wave, but in truth they are unpredictable. They can occur at any time, day or night, during incoming and outgoing tides, during storms and during sunny calm weather.

How to avoid sneaker waves:

Never turn your back on the surf. Stay at least thirty yards away from the water on beaches facing the open ocean, particularly the Great Beach (North and South beaches), McClures Beach and Kehoe Beach in Point Reyes. Watch out for sneaker waves.

Sneaker waves are often preceded by a sudden lowering of the water level. Supervise children at all times. Avoid slippery rocks. Rock outcrops can be slippery from mist, rain, or spray. Large waves can knock people off rock outcrops and severely injure them or knock them unconscious. Stay away from rocky areas, particularly during storms, high tide, or tidal changes.

Avoid logs and debris. Sneaker waves are strong enough to take the biggest log and toss it on you. Stay away from logs in surf or wet sand. Do not sit or stand on logs. Keep children away from logs and large debris.

Playing at the beach can be great fun, but it always pays to be cautious and be informed of potential dangers in the area you are visiting. Most Visitor Centers of national parks will have information about possible dangers in their area. Resorts should also be able to let you know about areas of caution.