description Cortez Bank Overview
Cortes Bank is a shallow seamount located roughly 160 km (100 miles) west-southwest of San Diego, California, in the Pacific Ocean. It is part of the California Continental Borderland and rises to within about 6 meters (20 feet) of the ocean surface. The bank is known among surfers for producing extremely large surfable waves during winter swells, attracting big-wave surfers seeking breaks comparable to those at Nazaré or Jaws. The area lies within U.S.
federal waters.
insights Ranking position
Cortez Bank ranks #31 of 209 in the Sandbar ranking, behind Second Thomas Shoal, ahead of Snake Island Sandbar.
help Cortez Bank FAQ
How can waves break at Cortes Bank when there is no visible island?
The bank is a submerged seamount whose shallow high points force incoming ocean swell upward. Bishop Rock lies only a few feet below the surface at some tides, allowing long-period swells to form enormous breaking waves.
Why is Cortes Bank so difficult for surfers to reach?
It lies roughly 100 miles offshore from San Diego in exposed Pacific waters, with no harbor or land refuge. Big-wave crews need an ocean-capable vessel, reliable forecasting, and safety support before they can even attempt to surf it.
Who first surfed the giant waves at Cortes Bank?
Surfers explored the bank in several stages rather than through one uncontested discovery. George Hulse rode waves there during a documented 1995 expedition involving surf photographer Larry Moore and other members of the surfing press.
Is Cortez Bank the same place as Cortes Bank?
Yes, both spellings refer to the same offshore feature, although Cortes Bank is the spelling commonly used on modern charts and in surfing literature. The alternate Cortez spelling appeared historically and remains widespread in popular references.
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