San Diego lives and breathes surfing.
It’s a huge part of life here, and with gorgeous weather all year long, there’s plenty of time to surf to your heart’s content. 70 miles of open coastline offers a multitude of beaches for surfers of all levels. Experienced surfers enjoy some of the best breaks in the country, while gentler spots make for a great place to get your feet wet if you are just starting out.
Here is our list of the 10 best surf spots in the area to catch your next wave:
1. Windansea
This spot is reserved for those experienced surfers. Windandsea is a tight-knit community where localism reigns, so be sure to respect the local hierarchy out on the water. Waves break pretty far from the beach and have been known to catch people off guard by the power they pack, so it’s best to avoid if you are new to the game. If you are more on the inexperienced side, this is still a great place to check out the local talent.
Skill level: advanced
Location: off of Neptune Place, La Jolla 92037
2. Oceanside
Oceanside provides miles of gentle beach break and is a fantastic spot for newbies to get their feet wet. It’s best known, however, for the jetties on either side of the Oceanside Habor entrance. Thanks to the shifting sandbars, this area gives novices a great opportunity to practice on waves varying in size and intensity.
Skill level: beginner/intermediate
Location: Oceanside Harbor, Oceanside 92054
3. Pacific Beach
Pacific Beach, also known as PB, is a surfing spot for all experience levels. Tourmaline Surf Park has waves that are soft and slow, making it great for those looking to learn. The northern end of this beach also provides a good spot for longboarders with more experience. PB is a definite win for anyone looking for an easygoing vibe.
Skill level: beginner/intermediate
Location: near 601 Tourmaline St, San Diego 92109
4. Black’s Beach
Black’s Beach is a whole experience. It takes a tricky hike down a dirt path to get there. It’s actually most famous for being a nude beach, but the surfing is amazing. Be wary, though, as these waves are unpredictable and have been known to break at up to 25 feet. Needless to say, this spot is best for strong swimmers and advanced surfers.
Skill level: advanced
Location: beneath the bluffs of Torrey Pines, La Jolla 92037
5. Lower Trestles
Also called Lowers, this spot is known for its high-profile waves – and surfers. Some of the most talented surfers frequent this spot, making it very competitive. Even World Champion Kelly Slater calls it her favorite place to surf. Definitely not a place for beginners to surf, however it’s an incredible place to watch.
Skill level: intermediate/advanced
Location: on the south side of the San Mateo Creek river mouth in San Onofre, San Clemente 92672
6. Old Man’s
Old Man’s is another famous spot, just south of Lower Trestles. Also known as San Onofre State Surfing Beach, this beach has fun gentle waves that are good for beginners and veterans alike.
Skill level: beginner/intermediate
Location: off of Old Pacific Highway, San Clemente 92672
7. La Jolla Shores
Another great beach on our list for the more inexperienced surfers is La Jolla Shores. Not to mention, there are several surf schools in the area to get more guidance on technique and the laws of the land. It’s definitely a popular spot, so expect crowds.
Skill level: beginner/intermediate
Location: La Jolla Shores, San Diego 92037
8. Del Mar
With exposure to swells in all directions, Del Mar is known for its reliable waves. It encompasses the area from the river-mouth all the way to Torrey Pines State Beach, giving everyone space to catch a wave. It’s a good spot for beginners to intermediate level surfers.
Skill level: beginner/intermediate
Location: Del Mar 92014
9. Swami’s
Located below the bluffs of Encinitas’ Self-Realization Center is another local favorite. Head here if you’re a skilled surfer. It’s a great spot with excellent waves, and is protected from winds by cliffs.
Skill level: advanced
Location: near the Self-Realization Center on the sourthernmost end of Encinitas 92024
10. D Street
Also known as Boneyards, D Street is frequented by some of the best local talent in Encinitas. It has fast and peaky waves, making it a popular spot for shortboarders. This spot is definitely more suited to experienced surfers. As such, if you’re less experienced, this is the place to check out some of the sport’s next pros.
Skill level: advanced
Location: below the bluffs from Moonlight Beach south to Swami’s point, Encinitas 92024
[Featured image: Zachary Shea via Unsplash]