Top Surfing Spots

This classic La Jolla reef break solidified its place in wave history in 1937, when surfing pioneer Woody Brown first rode here. Since then, the famed wave has become one of the most well-known in San Diego County, and even appeared in Andy Warhol’s 1967 film, San Diego Surf. Windansea’s wave can be sizable (ranging from two to ten feet) and conditions tend to be unpredictable. Because of its difficulty—along with its reputation for being a competitive atmosphere—it best suits skilled surfers. Beginners may feel more comfortable at the calmer La Jolla Shores.

Part of Swami’s State Marine Conservation Area, this classic right point break in Encinitas (honored as one of the World’s 20 Best Surf Towns by National Geographic) gets its name from the golden, lotus-shaped towers of the Self-Realization Fellowship high on the bluffs. Swami’s is most suitable for intermediate skill levels and up. The fellowship grounds provide a nice perspective on the waves corduroying the ocean below, plus the gardens are positively gorgeous. Cruise through town on Highway 101 to get a taste of this surf-centric neighborhood—you’ll find surf shops, cafés, yoga studios, and record stores.

Stop in Dana Point to pick out your dream board or snag some beachy apparel at Hobie Surfboards’ first store location before you test the local waves Strands Beach or Salt Creek. Doheny State Beach is the ideal place for beginners to learn, thanks to its small waves and long breaks. Take a surfing class with Girl in the Curl or at Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club, which  offers a “No Fail Surf Lesson.” To find out about more things to do in the area, visit the California Welcome Center - San Clemente. It’s just a few miles down the coast, and the staff will be happy to provide tips only a local would know.

Cap off your wave-filled day at The Waterfront Beach Resort across from Huntington Beach, where you can luxuriate at the spa, kick back on the rooftop lounge, or watch your kids splash down the water slides. Poolside cabanas are decked out with high-tech entertainment systems. 

There’s a rebellious strain to surf culture, and it’s on display here. Stroll the eclectic Venice Beach boardwalk to catch a glimpse of the free-spirited street performers and quirky locals. While you people-watch, grab a fresh-pressed juice or taco, or head straight for boho-chic Abbot Kinney Boulevard to explore one of L.A.’s best shopping districts (don’t miss a stop at Mollusk Surf Shop, a California institution).

If you need evidence of Surfrider Beach’s significance, consider the fact that this right cobblestone point break at Malibu Lagoon State Beach was honored as the first World Surfing Reserve by the Save the Waves Coalition. It’s no wonder. The waves are virtually perfect, the likes of Miki (Da Cat) Dora surfed here, and Surfrider played a pivotal role as surfing moved into the cultural mainstream (thank you, Gidget). Surfrider isn’t for beginners—newbies should watch from the beach—but this is a wave to aspire to.

A classic beach town needs a classic wave and in Pismo Beach, you’ll find outstanding surfing on both sides of the landmark pier. Much of the time the waves here are suitable for beginners but are also high enough in quality to host the World Surf League Qualifying Series SLOCal Open at Pismo Beach early in the year. (Ed. note: As of February 2025 portions of northbound Highway 1 in Big Sur are closed. See this page for details.) 

While ephemeral Ghost Tree off Pebble Beach is Monterey County’s biggest and most notorious wave, Asilomar State Beach offers a much safer and consistent option for mere mortals. Asilomar is usually pretty mellow but it can get pumping on occasion, so check conditions. And when you need to warm up and refuel, just head over to Phoebe’s Café at the Asilomar Conference Grounds for a cup of coffee.

Mavericks in Half Moon Bay may be the most famous wave anywhere on the mainland, and it comes by its renown honestly. Celebrated in books, documentaries, and the feature film Chasing Mavericks, waves here can rise to 80-foot faces when conditions are right. (In other words, do not attempt to surf here). Big wave icon Jeff Clark pioneered Mavericks (which was named for his dog) and you’ll find hoodies and other cool gear at his Mavericks Surf Company.