Blog

Best Beaches for Surfing in San Diego

January 27, 2023
San Diego Surfing

San Diego is a surfer’s paradise. The city is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the world that are said to be apt for surfing. The city attracts not lonely locals but also tourists, including international visitors, who come to enjoy the beach life here and take part in water activities, including surfing.

Let’s have a look at the five best beaches in San Diego and help you pick the best one.

1. Windansea Beach, La Jolla

Surf in La Jolla

La Jolla is a neighborhood in San Diego with a happening nightlife and exciting things to do. The region is home to a number of beaches but our favorite is Windansea Beach.

The beach is perfect for experienced surfers who enjoy challenging waves. However, for this reason, it is not a suitable option for new learners. The waves here break far from the shore and can end up being a little wild. 

Visit this beach if you are experienced and interested in handling difficult waves. Moreover, those who want to enjoy watching other surfers can also take a trip to the beach. You will find other players showing their skills here.

2. Pacific Beach

Surf in Pacific Beach

No San Diego beach list can be complete without a mention of Pacific Beach, one of the most popular surf beaches in the world. If you talk to anyone about surfing in San Diego, they’ll definitely name this beach. Said to be perfect for new learners, the beach also welcomes experienced surfers.  

The waves here are soft and nice and the beach has a lot more to offer, including parks, restaurants, and hotels.

Parking is not a problem and bathrooms are easily available. Known for being crowded, Pacific Beach is full of life and has a number of surf schools.

3. Scripps Beach, La Jolla

Scripps Beach

Located by the Institute of Oceanography, Scripps Beach is easy to access and very rarely crowded. The waves here are suitable for all kinds of people as they’re neither too extreme nor too soft – expect a height of 3 to 5 feet. Expect low waves during summer and larger waves the rest of the year.

There is a lifeguard tower but no bathrooms. You’ll have to visit nearby stores to freshen up.

4. Oceanside

Oceanside

This stunning beach is known for its shifting sandbars and a nice range of waves. The beach is home to several cafes and restaurants. Plus, it’s known for being a surfing community. Most cafes are run by surfers and everything from safety equipment to surfboards is readily available. 

The beach is popular for hosting a number of surfing competitions, including the SuperGirl Surf Pro in September and the World Bodysurfing Championships in August.

5. Lower Trestles

Make sure to visit Lower Trestles if you are serious about surfing in San Diego. More popularly known as ‘Lowers’, the beach is famous among professionals, including World Champion Kelly Slater who called it one of his favorite surfing beaches in the world.

The beach offers great facilities but it’s always crowded. Consider this one if you don’t mind surfing around a bunch of people.

So, where do you go surfing in San Diego? Let us know.

Recents

Get 15% OFF

Make the most of the season at Pacific Surf School!

Use code SUMMER15 and get 15% off your surf lessons. Catch this wave!

USE CODE: SUMMER15