The Elusive Wave earns its name honestly — this San Lorenzo River spot in Santa Cruz only shows up when the flow line up just right, sometimes just once or twice a season. When it does break, it's a fun little green wave with a decent eddy and some shelter, friendly enough for less experienced surfers lucky enough to catch it in. Keep an eye on the flow, though; push it too high and the forgiving little wave turns pushy fast. One more thing locals joke about: river water quality here is sketchy at best, so maybe sit this one out if you've got open cuts.