The 11 Best Surfing Beaches in California

Jesus walked on water and that made Christians realize the true power of God almighty. In the modern day, people invented surfing so that humans can also do the same. This miracle invention has made surfing a sport that gives surfers worldwide exposure. 

Based on the interviews of reputed surfers in the World Surf League, they have always voted California as their hot favorite. So what makes California surfing beaches the best in the world? Stick together as we uncover this mystery. 

Furthermore,  we will also let you know about the best surfing beaches in California that will help you get the natural sunkissed look that you have always wanted. As a beginner, intermediate, or advanced surfer, you need to realize that you need to spend long hours outdoors, feel the ocean inside you, and make the waves run at your command to master the craft. 

Why Is Surfing In California Such a Worldwide Phenomenon? 

According to the authors of gathering waves, surfing in California is always in demand because California has  800 miles of coastline and you have the authority to surf all through the seasons.  In winter 

California receives the biggest northwest swells and in spring it receives the biggest Southwell swells. Fall becomes magical for surfers because the water is warm and you can throw some smooth surf.  In summer waves are just perfect since they are neither too small nor too big. 

Quick Note For Beginners Surfing In California 

As a newbie in the surfing world, you must be wondering what are the surfing swells that we are talking about.  Realize as a beginner you need to get accustomed to the surfing terminology. Lingo and slang if you want to be the best in the game. 

Surfer lingo, Slang And Terminology

According to surfer today the following list should serve as a blueprint for any rookie who is about to enter the surfing world and also help advanced and intermediate surfers to refurbish their surfer knowledge, here we go : 

• Swells: Surface waves that are created by strong winds. 
• Charging: When the surfer is showing his skills to the audience.
• Closeout: When the waves break unevenly. 
• Down petrol: Surf sessions during the early morning.
• Doggy door: Exit hole of the wave found by the surfer during a surfing session. 
• Duck diving: The technique of putting the surfboard through the wave.
• Paddle battle: When a surfer gets inside the wave curl.

Once you are powered with this knowledge, it’s time we let you witness the best surfing beaches in California that will compel you to take your surfboard and hit the waves right away. 

1. Santa Cruz 

This beach in California has a well-known surfing spot called Steamers Lane. According to the insights provided by surfline ,  this spot is super crowded with surfers and it’s due to two reasons. Firstly the padding is easy and gives you a good foundation for suave surfing and secondly, you can position yourself easily on the surfboard to get a clean ride. 

• Best time to surf: You can surf all year but the prime time would be winter and fall. 
• Wave characteristics: Quality waves are produced which gives smooth longboarding. 
• Local surf scene: The surf community present in Santa Cruz is extremely welcoming and warm Even if you are new you will be welcomed with open arms. 

2.  Newport Beach 

Intermediate surfing in California cannot be completed without the name of Newport Beach.  As a beginner surfer, this beach is a strict no for you because the waves come out extremely big and have the danger of hitting with a great impact. Avoid padding at cost with your surfboard if you are just starting.  One of the best surfing spots in Newport Beach has to be Wedge. 

• Best time to surf: During summer. 
• Wave characteristics: Large set of waves that approaches the shore with a proper angle.
• Local surf scene: The surf community here hosts beach parties every season and the community treats you like family. 

3. Asilomar State Beach 

This mellow beach has an aura of its own. Most of the waves can reach 12 feet long and it’s recommended that you use a longboard surfing technique, where the surf is small but you enjoy cruising through the waters.  Some of the best surfing spots for this beach are roadside, middles, and reefs. 

• Best time to surf: All year round.
• Wave characteristics:  Tides are small and the waves and the swell direction is towards the northwest.
• Local surf scene: Let’s call it extremely vibey since everyone in the surfing community knows each other.

4. Rincon Point State Beach 

The name-dropping of this beach comes from the beach boy song which was aired in 1962. The song was called Surfin Safari.  Furthermore, the surfing points of these beaches are indicator, river mouth, and cove.  As a surfer, you will love the waves and their formation since that provides a pathway for longer rides. 

• Best time to surf: All around the year. 
• Wave characteristics:  The waves are influenced by point break which means they break at an even pattern. 
• Local surf scene:  Surfing gear is available for rentals while surf schools provide expert guidance. 

5. Mavericks Beach

Every surfer lives and dies with a dream of surfing big waves. This beach became super popular when a big wave surfer Jeff Clark showed his cruising style in the 90’s.  The surfing contest was held in 1999 and to this day it continues to do so. 

Advanced surfing in California has a surfing area name encrypted in their surfing history and it is known as Half Moon Bay which is present in Mavericks Beach. As an expert, if you want to test how good you are, make sure that you hit the west-northwest swell that originates from this beach and test your limits. 

• Best time to surf:  In summer 
• Wave characteristics: Right-hand point break is witnessed 
• Local surf scene: Surf shops restaurants and cafes, whatever you need they have it. In addition, they also host a surf festival where locals celebrate the surfing spirit together. 

6.  San onofre State Beach 

The surfing history of this beach traces back to 1920.  This beach attracts long boarders because the waves are gentle and also create a relaxing atmosphere as default. Some of the best surfing spots on this beach are Old Man, the Point, and Dog Patch.  One of the best surfing professionals kolohe Andino is from this area and tested all his surfing skills using this beach as his daily driver. 

• Best time to surf: During fall 
• Wave characteristics:  The swells are mostly southwest 
• Local surf scene:  Mediocre. This is because the surf community doesn’t have proper surfing gear available with them so you need to bring your kit. 

7. Pismo State Beach 

One of the best surfing destinations for newbies and local surfers.   If you want to start with a beach that provides consistent low tides and less powerful waves, Pismo State Beach is one of your best bets.

• Best time to surf: All year around.
• Wave characteristics:  Made for beginners only who are into longboarding. 
• Local surf scene:  Helpful and welcoming. 

8. Huntington Beach Pier 

Home to some of the best surfing professionals like kelly Slater and Laird hamilton this beach is popular among all the newbies, intermediate, and expert surfers. Furthermore, this beach hosts the Van US Open and invites more than 400 professionals from around the globe. 

• Best time to surf: During winter.
• Wave characteristics:  Made for pro surfers since they can reach 12 feet in height. 
• Local surf scene:  The surf community celebrates the surfing spirit by hosting beer parties and helping rookie surfers. 

9. Swami Beach 

Home to short surfers this beach provides impeccable swells during winter months. Just at the end of the cliff, you will find a hard point break. This means when the beach has low tide that it will produce waves that are gentle and hence short surfers would easily be able to cruise through the waves. 

• Best time to surf: During the fall. 
• Wave characteristics:  The waves reach beautifully to the shore, they don’t break unevenly. 
• Local surf scene:  One of the best in the USA as they have a plethora of surfing training schools and surf shops available at your disposal. 

10. Windansea Beach 

Did you know that the classic reef break that was performed by Woody Brown was done on this beach? In addition, this beach has a rich surfing history that can be dated back to 1937.  The beach produces high waves that range from 7 feet to 12 feet and more. So if you’re a skilled surfer you can risk yourself getting injured.  La Jolla is one of the most favored spots on this beach. 

11. Manhattan Beach 

Considered the surfer’s paradise, this beach has been home to professional surfers and complies with a rich history.  The waves that are produced on this beach are manageable and hence we would recommend this beach for experienced and beginners. 

• Best time to surf: All year round. 
• Wave characteristics:  low tide waves are less powerful if you lose your grip as a surfer. 
• Local surf scene:  They make you feel like family as soon as you join the surfing community. 

Safety Precautions While Surfing 

There are some safety precautions that you should consider while surfing and they are stated as follows : 

• Choosing the right surfboard is the need of the hour. Know your skillset first and the swells that you are about to face. 
• Make sure that you attach your leash to your surfboard so that you don’t drift away. 
• Minor inquiries and hypothermia can be avoided if you wear a proper wetsuit.
• The surfboard that you are about to take to the beach must contain fins so that it provides you with stability and control. 
• Wax should be applied to get a better grip on your surfboard. 

Takeaway 

As we have reached the end of the article, we would like to thank you for your patience and the time that you have invested in reading our electronic copy till the end. We hope that we have provided enough insights about the best surfing beaches in California that will make you hit the waters and test your surfing skills. If you have liked what we presented make sure that you subscribe to our newsletter or hit us with a share or a subscribe. 

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