The Ultimate Guide to Surfing in San Diego’s Top Spots

San Diego is often considered the heart of California’s surf culture. With a coastline that stretches for miles, this city offers something for everyone, from mellow beginner waves to powerful reef breaks reserved for the fearless. Legendary board shapers like Skip Frye and Rusty Preisendorfer began their craft here, and many iconic surfboard designs were born in these waters. As much as I haven’t caught the surfing bug yet, paddleboarding is more my speed right now. Stay tuned for another upcoming blog where I’ll share my favorite destinations for a perfect paddleboarding session.

If you’re planning to paddle out, this guide breaks down the best surf spots in San Diego by skill level, along with insider tips to help you make the most of your session.

Tips for Surfing in San Diego

Before you grab your board, keep these local insights in mind:

• Best seasons: Fall and winter generally deliver the most consistent swells.
  
  

• Pack two boards: Bring a backup—conditions change quickly, and you’ll want options.
  
  

• Respect etiquette: Crowds are common, but tensions are rare if you avoid dropping in on locals.
  
  

• Safety first: Shuffle your feet to avoid stingrays, and if stung, soak in hot water to ease the pain.
  
  

• Gear rentals: If you’re visiting, rent before buying. Support local surf shops when you’re ready to purchase a board.
  
  

Beginner-Friendly Surf Spots in San Diego

Tourmaline, North Pacific Beach

Often compared to Malibu, Tourmaline is a longboarder’s paradise. Beginners love it for its forgiving waves and laid-back community vibe. Stick to the south side near Law Street for fewer crowds.

• Ideal swell: W, NW, SW
  
  

• Best board: Longboard or soft-top
  
  

• Hazards: Crowds and rocks
  
  

Mission Beach, Central San Diego

With sandbars stretching from the jetty to Belmont Park, Mission Beach is great for those learning to ride faster waves. The jetty provides extra consistency during northwest swells.

• Ideal swell: NW to W
  
  

• Best board: Fish or shortboard
  
  

• Hazards: Stingrays, jellyfish, summer crowds
  
  

San Elijo, Encinitas

This Cardiff gem offers long, rolling rides perfect for first-timers. The reef helps shape consistent peaks, but weekends can get crowded.

• Ideal swell: NW, W
  
  

• Best board: Longboard or funboard
  
  

• Hazards: Reef at low tide
  
  

Intermediate Surf Spots in San Diego

Scripps Pier, La Jolla

A proving ground for surfers ready to level up, Scripps Pier provides a variety of peaks on both sides. Stronger swells demand stamina on the paddle out.

• Ideal swell: SW, W, NW
  
  

• Best board: Shortboard or fish
  
  

• Hazards: Crowds, reef at the north end
  
  

Oceanside, North County San Diego

Consistent and versatile, Oceanside offers hollow rights near the pier and mellower waves farther north. This spot works for a range of boards, depending on conditions.

• Ideal swell: W, NW, SW
  
  

• Best board: Shortboard or longboard
  
  

• Hazards: Strong currents and post-rain pollution
  
  

Sunset Cliffs, Point Loma Area

A dramatic setting with reef breaks sheltered by cliffs, Sunset Cliffs is as scenic as it is fun. Access can be tricky, but the rewards are worth the effort.

• Ideal swell: W, NW, SW
  
  

• Best board: Mid-length or longboard
  
  

• Hazards: Steep cliffs and rocky reef
  
  

Swami’s, Encinitas

One of San Diego’s most famous breaks, Swami’s is known for its long, carving rides. It draws experienced locals and is best on larger winter swells.

• Ideal swell: W, NW
  
  

• Best board: Any board type
  
  

• Hazards: Rocks and heavy crowds
  
  

Advanced Surf Spots in San Diego

Windansea, La Jolla

Historic and iconic, Windansea is home to one of the oldest surf communities in San Diego. The reef break produces powerful, high-performance waves for skilled surfers.

• Ideal swell: NW, SW
  
  

• Best board: Shortboard or mid-length
  
  

• Hazards: Reef and localism
  
  

Trestles, north end of San Onofre State Beach

Technically just over the county line, Trestles is a world-class wave that attracts professionals and weekend warriors alike. With multiple breaks to choose from, it’s a must-surf for dedicated riders.

• Ideal swell: SW, W, NW
  
  

• Best board: Depends on the section, from shortboards at Lowers to longboards at Cottons
  
  

• Hazards: Crowds and cobblestones
  
  

Blacks Beach, La Jolla

San Diego’s premier big-wave spot, Blacks, is famous for its massive swells shaped by the underwater canyon offshore. Getting there means a steep hike, but the challenge keeps the crowds lighter.

• Ideal swell: W, NW, SW
  
  

• Best board: Shortboard or gun for bigger days
  
  

• Hazards: Rip currents, cliffs, and occasional shark sightings
  
  

Final Thoughts

Surfing in San Diego is more than a sport—it’s a way of life. With breaks suited to every level, you’ll find no shortage of waves to keep you progressing. Whether you’re paddling out for the first time at Tourmaline or chasing heavy winter swells at Blacks, the city’s coastline offers endless opportunities to connect with the ocean.

Ready to make San Diego your home base for surfing and coastal living? Contact me today to explore the best oceanfront and beachside properties in the area.