Learn about the best surfing spots in California

15 Best Surf Spots in California

The quintessential California dream consists of sunshine, palm trees, and world-class waves. It's no wonder surfers flock to the Golden State year-round.

But with so many incredible surf spots to choose from, where do you start? From the chilled-out breaks in the North to the legendary waves in So-Cal, we've scoured the coastline to uncover the 15 best surf spots in California.

Top 5 Surf Spots in Northern California

Northern California has some of the best surf spots in California scattered along its coastline, starting from San Francisco/Marin counties and extending through Sonoma, Mendocino, Humboldt, and Del Norte. Here are the top five surf spots in this region, each known for its unique waves and breathtaking coastal views:

1. Ocean Beach (San Francisco)

Ocean Beach is the ultimate playground for surfers looking to tackle some of the most massive waves the California coast has to offer. It is a popular spot for local surfers and offers stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge. When it comes to the best surf spots in California, Ocean Beach is at the top of the list.

Wave Type: Beach break
Wave Characteristics: Known for its heavy, powerful waves, Ocean Beach features a three-mile stretch with various peaks. Wave heights can reach 8-15 feet, making it suitable for experienced surfers. However, the currents and riptides can be strong, requiring caution

2. Point St. George (Del Norte County)

Point St. George is the holy grail of Northern California waves. They have some of the most massive waves the California coast is known for. It's not for the faint of heart, but for those seeking the best surf spots in California, it's pure, unadulterated surfing nirvana.

Wave Type: Reef break
Wave Characteristics: Offers secluded waves with overhead barrels and minimal crowds. It presents a challenge with swells from various directions, making it ideal for adventurous surfers

3. Salmon Creek (Sonoma County)

While Salmon Creek may not always deliver the massive waves the California coast is known for, on its best days, this spot dishes out a power-packed experience appropriate for seasoned surfers. It's one of those surf beaches that always makes you want to come back for more.

Wave Type: River mouth break
Wave Characteristics: Salmon’s Creek offer powerful rides on good days. Beginners can find manageable waves over a sandy bottom, but it can get crowded during peak times. The overall surf quality is variable

4. Point Arena (Mendocino County)

Point Arena stands tall as one of the best surf spots in California's northern stretch. It is known for its picturesque location, stunning coastal views, and a charming small-town vibe.

Wave Type: Rock reef break
Wave Characteristics: Known for its consistent and powerful right-hand waves, Point Arena is a reliable spot for decent surf. The waves here can be hollow and heavy, especially on mid-tide with a decent swell

5. Moonstone Beach (Humboldt County)

Moonstone is popular among California surf beaches due to its ability to suit every style and skill level. Additionally, it is also a great spot for beachcombing and enjoying the local wildlife, adding to the overall surfing experience.

Wave Type: Beach break
Wave Characteristics: Offers a variety of waves, from thrilling barrels to longboard-friendly rides, depending on wind and swell conditions. It caters to different surf styles and skill levels, making it a versatile spot

Northern California's diverse coastline offers incredible surfing experiences. For those looking to explore beyond the Golden State, these are some equally exciting surf spots on the East Coast, each with its unique charm and challenges.

Top 5 Surf Spots in Central California

Central California's coastline is known for its beautiful, rugged green landscape and is home to the legendary surf town of Santa Cruz.

Nestled at the top of Monterey Bay, Santa Cruz features iconic surf spots like Steamer Lane, Cowell’s, and Pleasure Point, accommodating surfers of all skill levels.

These are some of the best surfing spots in the Central California Region:

1. Steamer Lane (Santa Cruz)

Steamer Lane is a rite of passage. It is the epicenter of Santa Cruz surfing, with a rich history dating back to the 1940s.

It is part of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and home to the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum, which looks back at 100 years of surfing history.

Wave Type: Reef break
Wave Characteristics: Steamer Lane is renowned for its consistent and powerful waves, particularly during the winter months. The spot features multiple peaks, with rights and lefts that can produce hollow waves, making it suitable for intermediate to advanced surfers

2. Cowell's Beach (Santa Cruz)

Cowell is one of the gems to experience the best beach waves among California beaches and offers mellow rollers perfect for finding your sea legs.

It is located near Steamer Lane and is a popular spot for learning to surf due to its mellow waves and sandy bottom

Wave Type: Beach break
Wave Characteristics: Cowell's is known for its long, gentle waves that are perfect for beginners and longboarders. The waves here are typically smaller and more forgiving, making it an excellent spot for those just starting out

3. Pleasure Point (Santa Cruz)

Pleasure Point isn't just one of the best places to surf in California; it's a wave wonderland for every style and skill level.

Additionally, it is home to several different reefs, each offering unique wave characteristics.

Wave Type: Point break
Wave Characteristics: This area offers a variety of wave types, with both - rights and lefts. Pleasure Point is known for its long rides and can accommodate surfers of all skill levels, especially during the fall and winter when swells are more consistent

4. Pismo Beach

Pismo is ideally known for its versatile surfing condition. It is a long stretch of sandy beach, which provides ample space for surfers to spread out.

Moreover, it is a popular spot for families and beachgoers, with a variety of amenities and attractions nearby.

Wave Type: Beach break
Wave Characteristics: Pismo Beach features a sandy bottom and a variety of peaks, making it accessible for surfers of all levels. The waves can be fun and manageable, particularly during smaller swells, but can also get powerful with larger swells

5. Morro Bay

Morro Bay is a picturesque town known for its natural beauty, including the iconic Morro Rock.

This surf spot in Central California offers a mix of conditions, making it suitable for surfers of various skill levels.

From mellow beach breaks to gnarly reef action, this spot offers some of the most diverse beach waves you'll find on the Central Coast.

Wave Type: Beach and reef break
Wave Characteristics: Morro Bay offers a mix of conditions, with waves that can be suitable for beginners at the beach break, while the reef breaks can provide more challenging surf for advanced surfers. The iconic Morro Rock adds to the scenic beauty of the spot

Top 5 Surf Spots in Southern California

Southern California is the surfing capital of the United States. Stretching from Santa Barbara to San Diego, this 220-mile (354-kilometer) coastline is home to the best surf spots in SoCal. Here are the top five surf spots known for their diverse waves and vibrant surf culture:

1. Rincon (Santa Barbara)

Known as the "Queen of the Coast," Rincon stands out among the best places to surf in California.

Its consistent waves and picturesque setting make it a must-visit for surfers seeking the best waves in SoCal beaches. The vibrant surf culture here adds to its allure, attracting enthusiasts from around the globe.

Wave Type: Point break
Wave Characteristics: Rincon is famous for its long, peeling right-hand waves that can produce perfect conditions, especially during low tide in winter. The wave is known for its multiple take-off zones, making it suitable for both short boarders and long boarders

2. Malibu (Malibu)

Malibu is not just one of the best surf spots in California; it's a cultural landmark in surfing history. Its stunning scenery and consistent waves offer an exceptional surfing experience. Frequently featured in films and documentaries, Malibu represents the epitome of Southern California surf culture.

Wave Type: Point break
Wave Characteristics: Malibu is one of the best surf spots in California, offering a variety of waves, including mellow longboard-friendly rides and faster, more challenging sections. The waves can be fun and forgiving, making it suitable for surfers of all skill levels

3. Huntington Beach (Surf City, USA)

Huntington Beach boasts some of the best waves in SoCal beaches and has been the location for the annual U.S. Open of Surfing since 1959. Its lively atmosphere, combined with excellent waves, provides surfers with a comprehensive beach experience. The vibrant boardwalk and numerous surf shops contribute to its status as a top surfing destination.

Wave Type: Beach break
Wave Characteristics: Huntington Beach is known for its consistent waves, ranging from three to eight feet. The beach offers multiple peaks, making it one of the best places to surf in California, especially during summer swells

It's worth noting that avid surfers can find legendary breaks similar to the ones in SoCal in some of the best surf spots in America, from the rugged Pacific Northwest to the tropical shores of Florida.

4. Trestles (San Onofre State Beach)

Trestles is renowned among the best surf spots in California for its exceptional wave quality and natural beauty.

This location hosts major surfing competitions and is part of a protected habitat, offering surfers a unique blend of pristine environment and world-class waves.

It's a prime example of why California is considered one of the best places to surf globally.

Wave Type: Cobblestone reef break
Wave Characteristics: Trestles feature world-class waves that are fast and powerful, with both right and left breaks. It is particularly known for its long rides, making it a favorite among advanced surfers

While California boasts numerous world-class breaks, adventurous surfers might also want to explore surfing destinations on the Gulf Coast for an entirely different coastal experience.

5. Black's Beach (La Jolla)

Black's Beach is ideal for those seeking a more private surfing experience. Known for its scenic cliffs and secluded atmosphere, it attracts a diverse crowd of surfers.

While it's also famous for being a clothing-optional beach, the focus here is on the quality waves that provide an excellent surfing experience.

Wave Type: Beach break
Wave Characteristics: Black's Beach is known for its powerful waves, often reaching heights of up to triple overhead during winter swells. The underwater canyon enhances wave size and power, making it suitable for experienced surfers

For surfers dreaming of even more secluded spots, there are hidden gems for surfing in Hawaii that offer pristine beaches and world-class waves away from the crowds.

Safety Tips for Surfing

These are some safety tips so you can enjoy surfing while minimizing risks and ensuring your well-being:

1. Protect Your Ears

Use Ear Sprays: Surfers are susceptible to swimmer's ear, an infection caused by water trapped in the ear canal. Mineral oil-based ear sprays are an easy-to-use solution for preventing infections and water from entering your ears. They are also good after-care solutions for surfing and other water sports
Ear Plugs: Surfer earplugs are designed to prevent water from entering the ear canal. However, they can feel uncomfortable during prolonged usage

2. Gear Up Properly

Wear a Wetsuit: A well-fitted wetsuit can protect against cold water, cuts, and abrasions. Additionally, consider the range of temperature you are exposed to before choosing the right fit
Leash: Always attach a leash to your ankle and board to prevent losing your board in the waves

3. Know the Conditions

Check the Weather: Before heading out, check the weather and surf conditions. Avoid surfing during storms or high winds
Understand the Tides: Be aware of tide changes and how they affect wave patterns

4. Surf with a Buddy

Never Surf Alone: Surfing with a friend enhances safety and ensures help is available in case of an emergency
Supervision for Children: Children should always train with an experienced adult. Provide them with operative eye and ear protection and supervise them closely

5. Learn and Practice Surf Etiquette

Respect Other Surfers: Follow surf etiquette as preventive measures
Right of Way: Understand and respect the right of way rules to prevent accidents

6. Emergency Preparedness

First Aid Kit: Have a first aid kit handy in your vehicle or nearby
Know CPR: Learning CPR and basic first aid can be lifesaving in emergencies

Conclusion

California's coastline is a surfer's paradise, offering endless arrays of waves. From the powerful breaks of Northern California to the iconic point breaks of Southern California, there's a wave for every skill level.

These are some of the best surf spots in California where beginners and seasoned professionals can get their adrenaline going. So grab your board, respect the ocean, and enjoy the ride!

FAQ: Surfing in California

1. What part of California has the best surf?

Southern California is widely regarded as having the best surf spots in the state. With iconic locations like Huntington Beach, Malibu, and Trestles, the region offers consistent waves, warm water, and a vibrant surf culture year-round.

2. Where to Surf for Beginners in California?

California has numerous beginner-friendly surf spots. Some of the best include:

Santa Cruz: Cowell's Beach offers gentle waves ideal for learning.
Malibu: First Point at Surfrider Beach is perfect for beginners due to its long, slow waves.
San Onofre: Known for its mellow breaks and welcoming atmosphere.

3. Where are the Highest Waves in California?

The highest waves in California can be found at:

Mavericks: Located in Half Moon Bay, this spot is famous for its massive waves, often reaching over 60 feet during the winter.
Cortes Bank: An offshore surf spot known for its gigantic waves, Cortes Bank can produce waves over 80 feet high under the right conditions.

4. What are the Best Times of the Year to Surf in California?

The best times to surf in California vary by region:

Northern California: Best from October to March, with big swells from winter storms.
Central California: November to February is prime, with consistent W-NW swells.
Southern California: Surf year-round, but the best conditions are typically from August to November during the hurricane season in the Pacific and from December to February when winter swells arrive.