California’s Golden Coast is known for its sun, sand, and legendary surfing. With miles of beaches, ideal weather conditions, and waves for every skill level, it’s no wonder surfing is synonymous with the state.
Explore the California coastline with our list of favorite SoCal surf spots. We’ve chosen the top beaches in each county based on their waves, accessibility, culture, and points of interest. We’ll visit top surf destinations in each southern county.
Ready to plan the perfect surf trip? Use this guide to map out your path, and check out our "Surf Trip Packing List" and "How To Travel with a Surfboard" guides to gear up for your next adventure.
1. Surfing in San Diego
One of the world’s top surf destinations, San Diego is home to blue waves, sunny skies, and warm water. San Diego is a favorite for its wave-friendly conditions and laid-back surf culture.
Swamis, Encinitas
Experience Level: Beginner to Advanced
Swamis is a serene San Diego surf beach with sublime waves and consistent surfing conditions for all levels. The striking coastal bluffs add to the appeal, drawing both surfers and spectators and creating a relaxed and inclusive atmosphere. There’s plenty of free parking at Swamis Seaside Park and along the 101 (South Coast Highway).
San Onofre Beach
Experience Level: Beginner to Advanced
San Onofre Beach is situated between two extremes – natural wetlands and a former nuclear generating station and active military base. Still, surfing is safe in each of the three beaches on the northern San Diego coastline: Lower Trestles, Old Man’s, and Trails.
Lower Trestles, known for big waves and power surfing, is frequented by advanced and pro-level riders. The waters of Lower Trestles are patrolled by lifeguards less frequently, so unless you’re an experienced surfer, it’s advised to head to calmer areas. Old Man’s is a popular spot for surfers of all levels due to its slow and steady waves. Trails lie somewhere in between; waters aren’t nearly as rough as Lower Trestles but are more dynamic than at Old Man’s. The scene can be just as lively – Trails is a clothing-optional beach.
Tourmaline Beach, La Jolla
Experience Level: Beginner
A surfing-only beach, Tourmaline has gentle waves and an easygoing vibe, ideal for beginners looking to gain confidence on their boards without having to dodge swimmers. The sandy shore is dog-friendly and family-friendly, offers free parking, and features unbeatable sunsets.
Seaside Reef, Cardiff
Experience Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Seaside Reef features medium-sized, fast-paced waves that are popular among locals. Crowds tend to be heavy in the water and on the beach, especially on days with favorable conditions. During low tides, Seaside can be shallow and has a rock bottom, so take precautions when falling. Paid parking is available in South Cardiff State Beach, or you can get access with a California State Park pass.
Black’s Beach, La Jolla
Experience Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Black’s Beach goes all out in every way. One of San Diego’s standout surfing destinations is known for monster waves, extraordinary views, and other distractions – namely, its nude beach.
The beach is secluded and somewhat difficult to reach, but the payoff is major. Located beneath the Torrey Pines State Natural Preserve, surfers can choose their own adventure between four challenging paths that wind along the bluffs; plan for about a 45-minute hike. Once you reach the beach, rejoice – the waves are sky-high, courtesy of an underwater canyon that creates a massive force. Keep your eyes open for sealife like dolphins, seals, and sea lions, and beware of stingrays. Plan to spend a few hours at Black’s to explore all that it has to offer.
2. Surfing in Orange County
Orange County is the heart of surf culture and industry, offering world-class waves, year-round warm weather, and 42 miles of coastline. From mellow, family-friendly breaks to powerful, pro-level swells, the OC has something for everyone – all in a setting that captures the true essence of California.
Huntington Beach
Experience Level: Beginner to Advanced
Also known as Surf City, USA, Huntington Beach is the birthplace of modern American surfing. Home to the US Open of Surfing, the Association of Surfing Professionals, and the Surfing Walk of Fame, the area is as much of an epicenter of the sport as a surfer’s paradise. Huntington Beach stretches over 10 miles of sandy shores easily accessible from Pacific Coast Highway; ample paid parking is available just off PCH or in parking lots surrounding the Huntington Beach Pier.
Newport Jetties
Experience Level: Beginner to Advanced
Part of Newport Beach, the Newport Jetties are a series of jetties that set off consistent surf breaks. These dependable waves make the Jetties a popular destination for families and more advanced surfers alike, which means it tends to get crowded. In that case, hit the beach early for dawn patrol – you’ll be rewarded with quiet waters and an impressive sunrise.
Doheny State Beach
Experience Level: Beginner to Advanced
California’s first state beach, Doheny, is a go-to for beginners and intermediate riders thanks to soft, reliable, waves year-round. The state beach has paid parking and plenty of restrooms, water fountains, and picnic areas so you can post up for the day. However, be cautious of the water quality after rain; surfers are advised to steer clear of the water up to 72 hours after rainfall.
Blackies
Experience Level: Beginner to Advanced
A storied surf break in Newport Beach, Blackie’s Beach was named after Blackie’s By The Sea, a historic, popular bar across the street. Come for the accessible, fast, short sections of waves, and stay for the beachy charm. The welcoming vibe makes it a must-visit on your trip down the coast.
The Wedge
Experience Level: Advanced
The Wedge only works in summer south swells but showcases some of the best and biggest waves in California – some as high as 20 feet, creating a thrill for the most experienced riders and a spectacle for beachgoers. Street parking is the only option in the area. Part of surfing safely is surfing the right waves for your skill level, and there are plenty of safer spots to gain more experience if you’re a beginner or intermediate rider.
3. Surfing in Los Angeles
With over 70 miles of shoreline, the surfing opportunities in Los Angeles feel limitless. Surfers of every level can explore a variety of beaches, each with unique conditions and culture. Here are some of the City of Angel’s top surf spots.
Malibu
Experience Level: Beginner to Advanced
Malibu is filled with legendary waves, vibrant surf culture, and charming beaches – there’s something for everyone. Surfrider Beach is an iconic surf spot divided into three areas: First Point has long, gentle waves ideal for beginners and longboarders. Second Point has faster waves for more experienced riders, and Third Point is a faster and more powerful wave for the vets.
The hot spot does attract crowds; for more room in the water, try Zuma Beach. Zuma’s heavy waves and big swells are better suited for experienced surfers.
Venice Beach
Experience Level: Beginner to Intermediate
If you’re looking for a cultural melting pot and mellow waves, Venice is it. Venice Breakwater is beginner-friendly, with consistent waves, while intensity picks up near the Fishing Pier (recommended for more experienced riders). Pop into local shops for gear, surf wax, or a quick bite.
Hermosa Beach
Experience Level: Beginner to Intermediate
This surfing enclave is a five-mile stretch of beaches and communities rooted in SoCal surfing culture. Hermosa is an inviting destination for LA residents looking to trade city life for a day in the water. It can get crowded, but there’s plenty of space on the sand to spread out and enough waves to go around.
Manhattan Beach
Experience Level: Beginner to Advanced
From the waves to the grub, Manhattan Beach is universally appealing. Shifting sandbars line the coast to create a challenging, fast-paced session for beginners and skilled surfers. Less crowded than other LA beaches, Manhattan is active and busy with locals who know the scene. Give yourself time to wander, shop, and try out some local restaurants. Parking is plentiful on side streets and lots.
4. Surfing in Ventura
Rincon Point
Experience Level: Intermediate to Advanced
The “Queen of the Coast” reigns as one of the best point breaks in California. Just south of Santa Barbara, Rincon has peeling waves that can run for hundreds of yards for smooth, long rides. The area has three sections – the Indicator, the Rivermouth, and the Cove. Surf each for their distinct features, or link them all for a Rincon trifecta. Rincon tends to be crowded, but the waves make it all worthwhile.
5. Surfing in Santa Barbara
For a change in surf and scenery, set your sights north of LA. Tucked between the Santa Ynez hills and the Pacific, Santa Barbara’s beaches have a mix of gentle and aggressive waves. Head to Santa Barbara during its peak seasons – fall and winter – and you won’t be disappointed.
El Capitan State Beach
Experience Level: Intermediate to Advanced
A regional classic, El Capitan is best in the winter. The picturesque location offers perfect barrels but is known to be fickle. Hit El Capitan when the conditions are right for the chance to catch a wave but pack plenty of patience; crowds will have the same idea you do.
Channel Islands
Experience Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Up for an adventure? This rugged, backcountry surfing experience is unlike any other. Miles off the California coast, Channel Islands National Park is made of eight islands dotted with surfable spots, all accessed by private boat due to the rugged terrain. Once in the water, you’ll be treated to long, powerful waves created by point breaks and reef breaks. The conditions are right year-round but can change rapidly in isolated areas.
Campus Point
Experience Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Located near UC Santa Barbara, Campus Point is a fun, casual surf spot with soft waves. The vibe is breezy and inclusive, and the area is usually populated by students, families, and local surfers. Parking is available at the Point – $5 for three hours, $16 all-day fee.
6. Surfing in San Luis Obispo
Surfing in San Luis Obispo is diverse and lively, with various beaches, rocky coves, and reef breaks. Views of the Santa Lucia Mountains create a scenic backdrop against 85 miles of waterfront. Bring your wetsuit when surfing in SLO – water temperatures run cooler here than on beaches to the south.
Carmel Beach
Experience Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Sandy white beaches and pretty turquoise waves make Carmel Beach one of the most vibrant surf beaches in the world. Carmel is usually crowded (for good reason); beat the rush by arriving early for sunrise or stay late to take in the sunset.
Santa Cruz
Experience Level: Beginner to Advanced
One of America’s original surf towns, Santa Cruz is responsible for ushering in modern surfing as we know it. The community is diverse and competitive, and the waves are high-quality and consistent with big swells. With 10 breaks in the area, there’s something for everyone, from first-timers to pros. Stop by the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum to experience how much Santa Cruz has contributed to the sport.
Ghost Tree
Experience Level: Advanced
Caution: Ghost Tree is NOT for beginner or intermediate surfers, it’s a high-stakes challenge reserved for the most experienced surfers. Located off the coast of Pebble Beach near Monterey, Ghost Tree produces some of the biggest waves in California, towering as high as 60 feet. Those down for the challenge wear wetsuits year-round and arm themselves with helmets and inflatable vests for protection.
Big Sur
Experience Level: Intermediate
North of SLO, Big Sur is one of California’s most captivating coastal regions, defined by rugged cliffs and ocean panoramas. The waves are consistent, and the breaks are less crowded than beaches to the south. Make sure to wear a thicker wetsuit, hood and booties to keep you warm in chillier water.
California surfing combines great waves, scenic views and ideal weather. From world-famous beaches you’ve seen in movies to hidden gems along the coast, California has something for every surfer.
