15 Best Surfing Spots in California
There are many great surfing spots in California, but the 15 places listed below are some of the best. Each location has unique characteristics that make it a favorite among surfers. Trestles, for example, is known for its long rides and powerful waves, while The Wedge is famous for its vast and dangerous waves. Whatever your surfing style, you can find a perfect spot for you.
1. Lower Trestles, San Clemente, CA
Trestles is a world-famous surfing spot in San Clemente, California. It features long rides and powerful waves that attract surfers from all over the world. The wave break is consistent, and the water is usually clear.
2. The Wedge, Newport Beach
The Wedge is a popular surfing spot in Newport Beach, California. The powerful waves here often hit 30-feet and aren't for the faint of heart. Experienced surfers love the challenge, but beginners should be cautious when hitting the water in Southern California's top surfing destination.
3. Blacks Beach, La Jolla
Blacks Beach is a famous surf spot in La Jolla, California. Locals and visitors alike know the area for its laid-back atmosphere and excellent surfing conditions, despite being next to some of San Diego's most pricey real estate. The waves here are strong and consistent, making it a favorite spot among local surfers.
4. Windansea Beach, La Jolla
Windansea Beach is a popular surfing spot in La Jolla, California. With its sizeable crowd of regulars, the beach attracts both experienced and novice surfers.
While beginners may find it difficult to catch waves at first, they will get better over time with practice and dedication.
5. Redondo Beach, Breakwater, LA County
Redondo is an excellent spot that can get crowded but always produces great waves. The surfing destination in L.A. offers waves up to 20-feet and is a favorite among locals and visitors. The best time to surf Redondo Beach is early winter when the waves are at their biggest.
6. T Street Beach, Oceanside
T Street Beach is a popular surfing spot in Oceanside, California. The waves here are usually small and gentle, making it an excellent place for beginners to learn how to surf.
Experienced surfers can also enjoy the long rides and beautiful scenery at this beach. Don't forget to take a break from the waves and explore Oceanside's historic downtown nearby shops and restaurants.
7. Doheny State Beach, Dana Point
Doheny State Beach is a famous surfing spot in Dana Point, California. The waves here are typically gentle and consistent, making it a magnificent place for beginners to learn the basics of surfing. It's also a popular spot for families and groups looking for an easy-going beach experience on their vacation. Take note, however, that the water can get crowded on weekends.
8. Sunset Cliffs, Ocean Beach
Sunset Cliffs is a well-known surfing spot in Ocean Beach, California. The beach is a haven for surfers of all skill levels because of the consistent and powerful waves found here. Even beginners will have a great time trying out this exciting sport at Sunset Cliffs. Give it a go on your next trip to Ocean Beach.
9. Cardiff Reef, Cardiff-by-the-Sea
Cardiff Reef is a popular surfing spot in Cardiff-by-the-Sea, California. The waves here are some of the most consistent in Southern California, making it a favorite place among beginners and experienced surfers. Hit the water at Cardiff Reef for fun and relaxing surfing experience!
10. Swami's, Encinitas
Swami's is one of the most famous surfing spots in California. The long waves here are perfect for experienced surfers who want to ride big, powerful waves. Beginners should avoid Swami's, as the waves are consistently large and can be difficult to catch for beginners. However, this doesn't stop surfers from flocking to this popular spot from all over the world!
11. The Cliffs, La Jolla Shores
The Cliffs is a popular surfing spot in La Jolla Shores, California. With its powerful waves and beautiful scenery, The Cliffs attract experienced surfers and those new to the sport. Even more beginner-friendly than Windansea Beach, this is an excellent place for locals and visitors to take their first (or next) surfing lesson. Stop and see The Cliffs when in La Jolla!
12. Mavericks in Half Moon Bay
Mavericks is one of the most famous surfing spots in California. In Half Moon Bay, the waves here are massive and powerful - not for beginners. For experienced surfers who want to challenge themselves and put their skills to the test, Mavericks is a must-visit spot on any surf trip to California.
13. Pismo State Beach, Pismo Beach
Pismo State Beach is a popular surfing spot in Pismo Beach, California. With its warm water and consistent waves, this beach is ideal for beginners and experienced surfers to practice their skills. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day of surfing or want to take on some powerful waves, Pismo State Beach is the spot for you!
14. Rincon, Ventura County
Rincon is a well-known surfing spot in Ventura County, California. With its powerful waves and stunning views, this spot is a favorite among beginners and experienced surfers. Whether you're a local or just visiting the area for your next surfing adventure, stop by Rincon in Ventura County.
15. Brooks Street Beach, Orange County
Brooks Street Beach is an excellent surfing spot in Orange County, California. The waves here are perfect for beginners and experienced surfers alike. With its gentle waves and beautiful scenery, this beach is ideal for those looking for a relaxing day of surfing.
So there you have it - the 15 best surfing spots in California!
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced surfer, there's a spot on this list for you. So what are you waiting for? Grab your board and hit the waves today!