23 Places to Surf in CALIFORNIA (Thrilling & Exciting)
Are you looking for a new hobby?
Or are you a surf enthusiast who loves the Ocean’s epic waves?
Whether you are a skillful surfer or a beginner looking to learn how to surf, there is a wide range of surfing spots to explore.
It is more exciting when you visit the Beach, and you look forward to participating in one of the most exhilarating activities to engage in while at the Beach and have a great time.
There are exciting and fun surfing spots around California, and this article provides the best places to enjoy an amazing surfing experience.
And by the way, you may also want to check out the Beaches in California.
Places to Surf in San Francisco and San Mateo, California
1. Ocean Beach (Perfect Conditions For All)
Ocean Beach is a great spot to surf because it has the perfect conditions for beginners and experts in surfing.
This Beach is on the coast of San Francisco in California, and it is a delightful spot for the residents of San Francisco.
The water at Ocean Beach is known for its strong waves, which make surfing on the beach fun and exciting for surfers.
Surfers find this place the perfect spot to show their skills and enjoy an amazing surfing experience.
Several surf shops at the Beach serve the surfers’ needs and provide them with the materials needed for a safe surfing experience.
The beach waves offer breaks suitable for surfers with different skill levels, allowing them to enjoy the waves and advance their skills with experienced surfers available to put them through.
It is important to know that surfing on Ocean Beach requires a great deal of caution and safety.
Address: Sloat Boulevard & Great Hwy, San Francisco, California 94102, United States
2. Half Moon Bay Beach (Ideal For Thrilling Rides)
This Beach is the perfect spot for surfers of all skill levels.
The popular surfing spot offers fantastic waves and a vibrant atmosphere for surfers who visit the Beach.
This Beach is the best destination if you are a surfer seeking thrilling rides and a memorable surfing experience.
One of the many reasons surfers visit the Beach is its consistent wave conditions favoring surfing.
Some days the Beach has a manageable and fun wave that allows beginners to enjoy a fun learning experience.
However, during larger waves, experienced surfers enjoy riding through the waves, giving them a thrilling and fun experience.
The Beach is characterized by the sandy shoreline and rocky jetty that extends into the Ocean, and this combination gives the Beach a better wave formation and provides opportunities for more dynamic rides.
Address: Half Moon Bay, San Francisco, California, United States
Also see our article on Places to Retire in California.
Places to Surf in San Diego, California
1. San Onofre (Convenient For All Surfers)
San Onofre is located in the North area of San Diego County, California.
The Beach is a convenient spot for surfers of different skill levels worldwide.
It has different beach areas where visitors can enjoy different activities and have a fun experience.
The best part of Sann Onofre Beach is the surfing area known as the Lower Trestles.
Many surfers developed their surfing skills at the Trestles area with the smooth waves that provide a smooth learning experience.
Another main surf spot at the Beach is the Old Man’s because of the professional surfers that frequent this beach area.
This area offers consistent and mellow waves perfect for longboarding and beginners.
The atmosphere of the Beach makes it perfect for visitors who want to enjoy the ocean view and relax.
Lifeguards are present at the Beach, ensuring all visitors’ safety while having an amazing experience.
Address: 5200 S. Pacific Coast Highway, San Clemente, San Diego, CA 92672, United States
2. Oceanside Beach (Perfect Blend For All)
Oceanside Beach is commonly known as The Jetties in the community; residents love going to the Beach to enjoy a relaxing day, and even fishermen come to try their luck on the Beach.
This Beach offers the residents a perfect blend of the sun, sand, and surf.
There is a wharf at the Beach that makes it a popular place for fishermen, allowing them to cast their nets and lines in hopes of catching various fish.
The consistent waves of the Ocean make it a perfect place for both professional and beginner surfers.
Beginner surfers can surf lessons from the local surfing school near the Beach, where they will be taught all the necessary skills to enjoy a smooth surfing ride on the Ocean.
Visitors and residents can enjoy many other activities and attractions at the Beach, like paddleboarding, boogie boarding, playing volleyball, visiting the California Surf Museum, and many more.
Address: N Pacific Street, Oceanside, San Diego, California 92054, United States
3. Encinitas Beach (Beautiful View & Surf)
Encinitas Beach is a beach in the North County area of San Diego, a popular place for the residents of Encinitas and San Diego.
This Beach offers a beautiful view of the Ocean, with the white sands of the Beach and rocky bluffs attracting visitors from various parts of the city.
The Beach has famous surf spots that allow surfers to have an amazing time there.
Encinitas is the collective name given to individual beaches that extend along the coastline of the city, including Swami’s Beach and Moonlight State Beach.
Swami’s Beach is the perfect place to develop your skills as a beginner surfer because of the Beach’s smooth waves and tides.
Sometimes Swami’s Beach can have powerful waves, which can be challenging for surfers, so it is always safe to surf with a professional surfer.
Address: Encinitas, San Diego, California 92024, United States
4. Cardiff-By-The-Sea (Popular Vacation Spot)
This Beach is a popular vacation and relaxing spot for visitors worldwide and community residents.
It is located in Encinitas along the San Diego County, California.
The atmosphere of the Beach provides a calm feeling that visitors look forward to when visiting the Beach.
One of the distinct features of the Beach is the Cardiff Reef, a popular destination for surfers due to its strong, consistent waves, making it an ideal place for surfers of all skill levels.
The Beach is known for its vibrant tide pools, where visitors can explore and observe fascinating marine life.
Many amenities in the Beach area make visiting the Beach a comfortable experience for visitors and residents.
Lifeguards are also on the Beach, ensuring the visitors have a safe time while having fun and relaxing.
Address: Encinitas, San Diego, California 92007, United States
5. Del Mar Beach (Stunning Location For All)
The Beach is a stunning location with a breathtaking view that always amazes visitors.
It is known for its bright golden sand and clear waters.
Del Mar Beach caters to all your interests if you want to stroll along the Beach’s shores, soak up the sun, or engage in various water activities.
The gently rolling waves of the Beach provide an ideal setting for swimming, boogie boarding, and surfing.
Del Mar Beach is also a historic spot because the Beach has been hosting thrilling horse racing events since 1937, which has been one of the elements of excitement for the residents of the area.
Surfers enjoy visiting the Beach to develop their skills or enjoy a smooth surfing ride.
Lifeguards are stationed along the Beach, providing a safe environment for the surfers and swimmers.
Address: 1658 Coast Boulevard, Del Mar, San Diego, California 92014, United States
Also see our article on Abandoned Places in California.
Places to Surf in Orange County, California
1. Huntington Beach (Historic Surf Significance)
Huntington Beach is known to be a passionate place for surfers because they get to connect with the waves of the Ocean and explore their passion for surfing.
The significance of the Beach among surfers comes from the event in 1910 when Henry Huntington invited the legend of surfing, George Freeth, to show his surfing skills on the Beach.
Since then, the Beach has become a special place for surfers with different skill levels.
The Beach has several spots for surfers to enjoy an amazing surfing experience.
Visitors and residents of the area enjoy visiting the Beach because of the many facilities and attractions available around the coast.
The Beach has plenty of space for visitors to enjoy the view of the clear water while relaxing.
Address: 18331 East Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach, Orange County, California, United States
2. Seal Beach (Renowned For Vibrant Breaks)
Seal Beach is renowned for its fantastic waves and vibrant surfing areas.
This charming destination offers a delightful combination of consistent swells of the Beach, beautiful views, and a perfect surfing environment.
Surfers from all skill levels enjoy visiting Seal Beach for its diverse range of breaks and the year-round surf.
If you are a skilled surfer or a beginner looking to advance your skills, there are many opportunities for you to paddle out and ride the waves of Seal Beach.
The main surf spot in Seal Beach is around the iconic Seal Beach Pier; this spot has a variety of breaks suitable for surfers that want to advance their skills and ride the wave confidently.
Seal Beach has a rich history, and the Beach is filled with many attractions like restaurants, museums, parks, sports facilities, and many more, which visitors enjoy whenever they visit the Beach.
Address: 211 8th Street, Seal Beach, California 90740, United States
3. Balboa Pier Beach (Premier Surfing Destination)
This Beach is a premier surfing destination that attracts surfers from around the world; it offers a combination of natural beauty and consistent waves, creating a vibrant surf culture.
The positioning of the Beach is favorable as it ensures that surfers can find rideable waves throughout the year.
People enjoy visiting the Beach because of its perfect condition for swimming on a hot summer day.
It has a family-friendly environment that allows families to enjoy a relaxing and fun day while engaging in several water activities on the Beach.
The beach area has facilities that make visiting the Beach fun and comfortable.
Public restrooms, restaurants within walking distance, and many more facilities exist.
Lifeguards are always on the Beach during the busy season, ensuring the safety of the people there.
Address: 50 Main Street, Newport Beach, Orange County, CA 92661, United States
Also see our article on Skiing in California.
Places to Surf in San Jose and Watsonville, California
1. Capitola Beach (Small, Consistent Waves)
This Beach is a charming and breathtaking beach that offers a relaxing atmosphere to residents and visitors from all around the world.
It is known to have a vibrant and colorful environment that gives it a unique beauty.
The beach environment has many attractions that residents and visitors look forward to when visiting.
It is a perfect destination to enjoy swimming and relaxing while sunbathing on the sands of the Beach.
Even though the Beach is small, the wave condition of the Beach makes it a popular place for surfers in the area.
The swells of the Beach are consistent, allowing surfers of all skill levels to enjoy surfing on the Beach.
Capitola Beach is rarely crowded, so you can visit it and have a quiet personal time while enjoying the waves.
Address: San Jose Avenue, Esplanade Capitola, San Jose, CA 95010, United States
2. Sunset State Beach (Beautiful Coastal Views)
The Beach is known for its beautiful coastal views and reputation as a fantastic surfing spot.
Its scenic coastline offers various wave conditions that attract surfers.
The consistent wave breaks and reliable swells make surfers of all skill levels visit the Beach.
These consistent wave breaks are due to the positioning of the Beach; it faces directly west, making it ideal for capturing the energy of incoming Pacific Ocean Swells.
The Beach has many defining features, and one of them is the sandy bottoms which provide a forging surface for surfers; the sandy Beach offers a large space for surfers to spread out and find their spot to catch the perfect wave.
Beginner surfers enjoy training on Sunset State Beach because of its favorable wave conditions.
Sunset State Beach provides various amenities for visitors, like picnic areas, restrooms, and parking areas, allowing beachgoers and surfers to make the most of their time at the Beach.
Address: Santa Cruz Hwy 1 & San Andreas Rd, Watsonville, California 95076, United States
Also see our article on Ski Resorts in California.
Places to Surf in Santa Cruz, California
1. Santa Cruz Beach (Iconic, Diverse Surf)
Santa Cruz Beach is an iconic beach in San Cruz, California.
The Beach is close to San Jose, and it is very accessible for a day trip or weekend getaway for visitors and residents.
It is known for its beautiful coastline, warm water, and vibrant beach culture.
Santa Cruz Beach is recognized as one of the best surfing destinations in Santa Cruz.
It is a picturesque stretch of coastline that offers a diverse range of surf breaks suitable for beginners and experienced surfers.
Different spots on the Beach cater to the skill levels of the surfers.
Experienced surfers enjoy the large swells of the Beach as it gives them a thrilling and challenging ride.
Santa Cruz Beach is a popular surfing destination because of its vibrant culture and community.
Local surf shops around the Beach contribute to its welcoming atmosphere for the environment.
Address: 400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, United States
2. Natural Bridges State Beach (Striking Natural Beauty)
This Beach has a striking and stunning natural beauty, and it is also a popular surfing spot.
It is surrounded by rugged cliffs and dramatic rock formations, which gives it a breathtaking view.
The prime surfing area at the Beach is offshore from the main coast, and this stretch of coastline is known for its powerful waves that can be challenging for thrill seekers.
This challenging wave makes it a favorite spot for experienced surfers.
To advance your skills as a beginner surfer, you should have an experienced surfer when you want to surf on the Beach.
During the winter, the Beach has larger swells from the Pacific Ocean, giving it a perfect surfing condition.
The Beach has convenient amenities that make visiting the Beach comfortable and accessible for visitors and residents.
Address: 2531 W Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, California 95060, United States
3. Seabright State Beach (Renowned Sandy Shores)
Seabright State Beach is renowned for its beautiful sandy shores and breathtaking view.
The Beach offers excellent waves and ideal conditions for surfing lovers to enjoy.
It is the perfect surfing spot for surfers to develop and improve their abilities as a surfer.
The Beach is known for its consistent surf, all thanks to the favorable geography of the area.
Besides the Beach being an amazing surfing spot, it offers several amenities that add to its appeal.
The Beach features parking spaces, restrooms, picnic areas, and easy beach access, making it a convenient and family-friendly destination.
Lifeguards are also on duty on the Beach, ensuring the safety of beachgoers and surfers.
The Beach has a vibrant and welcoming environment for surfers, allowing surfers of all skill levels to feel comfortable and enjoy the surf culture.
Address: East Cliff Dr., Santa Cruz, California 95062, United States
Also see our article on Lakes in California.
Places to Surf in Malibu, California
1. Topanga Beach (Diverse Surfing Experience)
The Beach is an excellent option to go surfing with your friends.
It offers a range of wave sizes, with swells reaching up to 10 feet.
The Beach combines rocky and sandy terrain, providing opportunities for a diverse surfing experience.
Topanga Beach is the perfect place whether you are an experienced or a beginner surfer looking to expand your surfing skills.
Brace yourself for swells that offer a thrilling challenge if you want an adrenaline rush while riding the waves of the Ocean.
The landscape of the Beach is a glorious blend of rugged rocks and welcoming sandy stretches, giving the Beach an inspiring backdrop for an amazing surfing adventure.
Get your sunscreen, wet suits, and surfing board ready for an amazing time on this breathtaking Beach.
Address: 18700 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265, United States
2. Zuma Beach (Serene Ambiance & Clear Waters)
This Beach is located in Malibu, and it is known for its serene ambiance and clear waters.
Zuma Beach offers visitors a remarkable coastal experience with its breathtaking beauty and tranquil atmosphere.
The serene ambiance of the Beach makes it a perfect place for those seeking a quiet retreat.
It is famous among both beginner and experienced surfers due to the perfect surfing condition it offers.
The Beach’s topography and wave patterns create an excellent surfing environment, ensuring a thrilling experience for surfers.
If you want to have a daring experience, the Westward area is the perfect place.
This area has dramatic breaks, which always amaze surfers, giving them an exciting experience.
It is also a destination where visitors can bask in the beauty of nature and revel in the peace of the environment.
Address: 30050 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265, United States
3. County Line State Beach (Legendary Surf Breaks)
This Beach is a gateway to endless adventures for surfers and relaxation for visitors.
When you step into the Beach, you will be amazed by the dramatic backdrop of towering cliffs that give it exceptional beauty.
County Line State Beach is renowned for its world-class surf breaks that attract riders of all skill levels.
The Beach is recognized as a legendary surfing spot for wave enthusiasts.
It’s like the Ocean on this Beach has a secret pact with the surfers because it delivers the perfect stroke of waves.
The beach environment is filled with surfers from different parts of the area, creating a welcoming and vibrant surf culture.
County Line State Beach is not just a surf spot but a place to find natural harmony.
Address: 11690 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, California 90265, United States
Also see our article on Resorts on the Beach in California.
Places to Surf in Los Angeles, California
1. Venice Beach (Interesting & Varied Surf)
Enjoy an interesting surfing experience at Venice Beach in Los Angeles, California.
Venice Beach destination is the perfect place for beginners in surfing to advance their skills and enjoy a smooth ride on the Ocean’s waves.
Thrill seekers have many opportunities to enjoy riding the Ocean’s powerful waves.
The Beach has lazy waves that allow the surfers to enjoy a slow ride while basking in the bliss of the Ocean.
There are unique spots on the Beach that suit specific purposes.
The breakwater area on the Beach is the perfect surfing spot for surfers of all skill levels due to the water conditions of the Ocean.
No matter where you wish to surf on Venice Beach, you will have an exhilarating, memorable experience.
The Venice Fishing Pier also provides large waves for experienced surfers seeking a thrilling adventure.
Address: 1500 Ocean Front Walk, Los Angeles, California 90291, United States
2. Sunset Point Beach (Popular Among Beginners)
This Beach is popular among beginner surfers in Los Angeles.
The water condition of the Beach provides a consistent wave break that offers an exhilarating experience to the surfers.
One of the special features of the Beach is that it is exposed to the powerful swells of the Pacific Ocean, providing surfers with an amazing surfing experience all year long.
Surfers at Sunset Point Beach can expect consistent waves within 2-6 feet, although larger swells can occasionally grace the shoreline, providing a more challenging ride for experienced surfers.
The surfers from around the area gather to share their love for surfing and enjoy the waves.
After an amazing surfing experience, you can relax on the sand of the Beach to witness the sun sinking below the horizon, giving the sky beautiful colors.
This breathtaking view is what many visitors to the Beach look forward to every time.
Address: 17300 E Pacific Coast Highway, Los Angeles, California 90272, United States
3. Hermosa Beach (Peak of Surf Culture)
This Beach is a special place for surfing lovers.
It is one of the beaches where the epitome of California’s surf culture reaches its peak.
Hermosa Beach is a popular surf spot known for its consistent breaks spanning the entire stretch of the Beach, offering thrilling experiences for beginners and experienced surfers.
Its intense rip tides, colossal 20-foot swells, and powerful closer-to-shore breaks provide a challenging experience for the surfers.
If you want to experience adventurous surfing, Hermosa Beach is the best place for you.
With the pristine sands and clear waters of the Beach, it has become a treasured destination for locals and visitors around the area.
Visitors and residents who seek a relaxed day come to bask in the breathtaking beauty of the Beach.
Families can build sand castles, splash in the gentle surf, and create lasting memories.
There is a contagious and exciting energy that flows in the air of the Beach.
Address: 540 Pier Ave., Hermosa Beach, Los Angeles, California 90254, United States
Also see our article on Fun things to do in California.
Places to Surf in Santa Monica and Dana Point, California
1. Santa Monica Beach (Sandy Bottom & Smooth Ride)
Santa Monica Beach is a popular beach in Santa Monica, California.
It is a favorite place for surfers, sunbathers, and volleyball players.
Santa Monica Beach is also a popular tourist destination for people from different places around the world.
This Beach has a sandy bottom that provides an excellent platform for surfing, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride for surfers.
The Beach has a consistent wave favorable to surfers of all skill levels.
Many surfing training areas around the Beach provide people interested in surfing with the skills and equipment needed to explore their passion.
Amazing attractions and entertainment surround the Beach, providing visitors with the perfect place to relax and soak up the beach vibes.
Visitors can enjoy all the vibrant attractions and cultural landmarks of the city.
This destination is the best place for tourists and surfers; it is the perfect place to explore your passion for surfing.
Address: 415 Pacific Coast Hwy, Santa Monica, California 90402, United States
2. Doheny Beach (Welcoming For All Surfers)
Doheny Beach is one of the most famous surfing spots for surfers.
It provides a welcoming surfing environment for surfers of all skill levels.
The beach name was coined by the person who donated the area, Edward L. Doheny, a popular oil tycoon.
Doheny State Beach boasts a wide sandy shoreline, providing plenty of space for surfers to paddle out and catch waves.
If you are a skilled or a novice surfer, the Beach is perfect for all surfers to have an amazing ride on the Beach.
The waves of the Beach can range from gentle and mellow on smaller days to powerful and hollow when larger swells roll in, providing surfers of all skill levels with a delightful experience.
Doheny State Beach’s welcoming surfing community at the Beach provides an excellent place to engage with other wave lovers in California.
Address: 25300 Dana Pt. Harbor Dr., Dana Point, California 92629, United States
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