A Guide to Surfing in LA: 21 Excellent Surf Spots

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If you’re looking for the stereotypical California experience, you’re most likely to find it out at one of the many excellent beaches. And if you’re just looking for an exciting outdoor activity to enjoy in Los Angeles, surfing is a great option! With some instruction from a pro, even beginners can catch waves and have a blast. In this guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know for surfing in LA, whether you’re just starting out or are a seasoned surfer.

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Is Los Angeles Good for Surfing?

Los Angeles is definitely a good place to surf! Admittedly, the very best breaks can be found around an hour’s drive north or south, but there are still plenty of great spots to find waves in and near LA. There are many different breaks up and down the coast so there’s something for everyone, from beginners to advanced surfers.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Surfing is a great way to enjoy the beautiful weather in Los Angeles and the ocean can be enjoyed all year round. There are many different spots to choose from, depending on your skill level, what kind of waves you’re looking for, and how far you’re willing to drive.

There are also lots of great beach towns to explore in southern California, each with its own unique surf culture. And if you’re new to surfing, there are plenty of excellent instructors around who can help you get started.

Cons:

While Los Angeles is definitely a great place to go surfing, there are a few things that visitors should be aware of. First of all, the waves can get pretty crowded, especially during peak season during the summer. Secondly, there is a bit of localism in certain spots, so it’s always best to do your research (read this article!) before paddling out.

Finally, keep in mind that you’ll need a wetsuit if you’re planning on surfing here in the winter months – it may be warm on land, but the water temperature definitely drops! All things considered, LA is an amazing place to surf and well worth a visit for any wave-chaser.

Important Information About Surfing in Los Angeles

It’s important to know where to go when trying to find somewhere to surf in LA because each spot is slightly different. Overall, you will find a lot of temperamental beach and pier breaks that need the right conditions, but there are a handful of lesser-known spots that are well worth checking out.

What Is the Best Time to Surf in LA?

Overall, the best time of year to surf in Los Angeles tends to be fall and winter, from about September to February. But as I stated above, some spots work differently, and you can really find places to surf year-round in southern California if you know where to go and are willing to drive a bit to get there.

Weather:

The nicest weather in Los Angeles is typically from July to early October, this is the time of year you can get away with not wearing a wetsuit.

Weather in the summer typically falls into the range of 70°F to 85°F at the beaches and is sunny all day. From about May to early July we do experience what’s called “June Gloom,” where the day starts cloudy but often burns off by the afternoon.

Winter daytime temperatures range from about 62°F to 68°F. It can be a bit more cloudy with the occasional bout of rain. It rains most often in the spring, but still not very often and it’s not typically very heavy.

Water Temperature:

The annual average water temperature in southern California typically hovers around 62°F. Water temperature in the winter ranges from about 55°F to 60°F and in the summer about 60°F to 65°F (though this summer we had a period where the water temperature hit 70°F and it was glorious!).

You don’t need a wetsuit in the summertime (usually starting anywhere from April to June) and can start transitioning to a 3/2mm around October. By November I usually have my 4/3mm wetsuit out and in the dead of winter (from December to February) I add on booties and sometimes even gloves or a hood if it’s an especially cold winter. However, I do get cold easily whereas some people get by fine all year in a 3/2mm!

⭐️ The Best Wetsuits for Surfing in LA ⭐️

If you plan to surf in the winter, you probably want a 4/3mm wetsuit. If you’re someone who does NOT get cold that easily, a 3/2mm will be the better choice because you can use that year-round (and likely no suit in the summer if it gets warm enough). 

Try out an O’Neill wetsuit to start. It was my first starter wetsuit and I really loved it! It tends to fall in an average price range for wetsuits but is of high quality and lasted me quite a few years of frequent use.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BROWSE: O’Neill Wetsuits

You can also consider purchasing surf booties, both for the cold winter water and to protect your feet from the rocks. I suggest a longer top (like this one) because it can go under your wetsuit pant leg to keep water out better. 

>>> CLICK HERE TO BROWSE: Surf Booties

Swell:

The best swells typically happen during the winter. This is when you can find the biggest waves (in many spots) and more consistency. There are plenty of decent swells that come in during the shoulder seasons of fall and spring as well.

Occasionally we will get a bigger swell during the summer months, but in general, it tends to be much smaller (and sometimes just unsurfably small) during the summer.

While most spots work year-round, it’s good to know which spots work best in the small summer months and which spots get TOO big in the winter.

Also in general, try to surf around mid-tide when you can.

Crowds:

Of course with the nicest weather coinciding with holiday and school vacations, it’s no surprise the busiest times out in the water are from about June to September.

The spring, as well as October, are often my favorite times to surf in LA. The weather is pleasant, but it’s not as crowded and my favorite spots tend to have decent swells coming through at these times of the year.

Water Quality:

The water quality in Los Angeles can sometimes be of concern. Especially after it rains, it’s best practice to stay out of the water for a minimum of 2-3 days and ideally at least 5 days. Avoid spots that are near creeks, rivers, or storm drain openings if you’re concerned about water quality.

The LA County Department of Public Health monitors ocean water conditions and you can check online if there are any advisories or beach closures by clicking HERE.

Surfing in Los Angeles for Beginners

LA is a great place to learn how to surf if you know where the right spots are! Some of the best beginner beaches include Malibu Surfrider Beach, Sunset Beach, and Sapphire St. in Redondo Beach.

As a beginner, and especially if you’re a first-time surfer, I VERY strongly urge you to take a surf lesson.

For one, you need to learn how to be safe in the water, both for your own safety and for those around you. There is a lot more to know about surfing than how to get on your feet, such as how strong the waves are and if there are any hidden rocks, currents, etc. to be aware of.

It can be difficult to learn surfing, especially on your own, and you will greatly speed up your learning curve and have A LOT more fun if you take a lesson (or a couple) right off the bat. More on that below.

⭐️ Best Surf Lessons in Los Angeles ⭐️

Surf lessons and coaching are crucial steps in any surfer’s journey, especially in the beginning phases.

Plus… you have some of the best professional surfing talent living in Los Angeles! Why not take advantage of that while you’re here?

Even as an intermediate surfer, I take a lesson every time I go to a new spot because it’s best to hear from a local expert who can cover basic surf etiquette, tide, and wave dynamics of the area.

There are plenty of options depending on where you want to surf in LA and which beach you prefer, however, these are my top 3 choices for the BEST surf lessons in the area.

⭐️ BEST BEACH TO LEARN AT: Surfrider Beach

Surfrider in Malibu is not only one of the most popular surf beaches in the world, but it’s known for long, gentle waves – perfect for new surfers!

👉 Info + pricing on surf lessons at Surfrider Beach
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💸 MOST AFFORDABLE + BEST VIBES: Venice Beach

The group lesson at Venice Beach is one of the most affordable (and still great quality) surf lessons around if you’re looking to stick to a tight budget. Venice is also known as a mecca of interesting people and quirky vibes, so there will be plenty of entertainment to be had after your lesson as well!

👉 Info + pricing on surf lessons at Venice Beach
❗CLICK HERE FOR GROUP LESSONS❗
❗CLICK HERE FOR PRIVATE LESSONS❗

🌊 BEST ALL AROUND: Manhattan Beach

If you’re staying a bit further south and want decent waves at an affordable price, in a slightly quieter beach town – Manhattan Beach is the place for you!

👉 Info + pricing on surf lessons at Manhattan Beach Pier
❗CLICK HERE❗

Best Surf Spots in Los Angeles

*NOTE: These spots are ordered from North to South.

1. County Line

Just north of the Los Angeles County Line, this is where LA surfing starts. There’s a point at the northern end of the beach that delivers the most consistent (right) wave, especially on bigger swells. The beach break a bit further south also works and can be fun when it’s a smaller day.

Park on the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) directly in front of Neptune’s Net restaurant. Malibu spots can be a bit rockier than many other places in and around LA, so be careful when walking out and landing on the rocks.

2. Zuma Beach

Not a great spot for beginners, Zuma is more popular as a family, summertime hangout beach than a surf spot. The waves here are typically heavy and break quickly and close to shore. It’s always more hollow and bigger than it seems, so be careful!

The upside is this spot can sometimes catch big summer south swells and serves up an intense left off the point. It’s one of the few LA surfing areas that is best from March to October and can definitely be a fun spot in the right conditions.

3. Point Dume

This is not the easiest spot to access, the point is located in front of private property and requires a 20-minute (totally legal) hike along the beach from the parking at Point Dume State Beach near Westward Beach. As such, the crowds can be pretty intense and localized.

When the conditions are right, Point Dume is a quality, long right-hand point break. Due to the rocky shoreline, it’s best to be an intermediate or advanced surfer if you decide to try out this spot.

4. Malibu Surfrider Beach

Malibu without a doubt has some of the best surfing in the Los Angeles area, which of course means it’s constantly crowded. These next spots also work best during the summer (March to October) which drives up the appeal even more.

Broken up into three take-off spots along the point, Surfrider is one of the most popular beaches in the area for a wide range of beginner to advanced surfers. There’s easy access with a parking lot right off of PCH.

👉 Info + pricing on surf lessons at Surfrider Beach
❗CLICK HERE❗

5. Malibu 2nd Point

The most popular points at Surfrider Beach are 1st and 2nd. Second Point (to the north) is a shorter and faster wave better for those looking for performance. It can be a bit less crowded because it does require a bit more skill.

6. Malibu 1st Point

First Point is the best-shaped wave of the three. It’s a better wave for beginners and skilled longboarders with its beautiful, long peeling wave.

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Unfortunately, you basically have to drive in California to get around. The public transportation system isn’t very reliable, everything is spread out, and Ubers add up.

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7. Topanga Beach

Topanga is often a lovely spot with a nice right-hand point break. Depending on the conditions, you can really surf in three sections around the point. For the most part, it’s a great, gentle longboard and beginner-friendly spot with the section on the northernmost area best for shortboarders when the swell picks up.

It’s one of the closest pointbreaks to downtown LA, meaning it’s rarely not crowded. Unfortunately, it’s also sometimes dubbed “Topangry” due to some surly locals. However, it really is usually a gentle and pleasant spot to surf so long as you stay out of the way of the grouchy old men.

8. Sunset

Surfing Sunset Point is great for beginners and longboarders with its long, gentle right-hand waves. There’s a parking lot right off of PCH, though it can get busy when it’s nice out. The spot is pretty consistent year-round for mellow waves.

9. Santa Monica

Mostly due to its location and popularity, surfing in Santa Monica is often crowded and parking can be a challenge. Check out the surf at the pier or along Santa Monica Beach. Both spots can work for beginners and offer both right and left-handers. Along Bay St., there is metered and paid parking as well as board rentals and surf lessons.

The perks of surfing in Santa Monica are that you’re right in the center of the action! After your session, you can easily go have fun on the pier, shop downtown, and eat and drink to your heart’s desire at all the amazing restaurants.

10. Venice

Venice is a popular beach known for its quirky crowd of skaters, artists, and of course – surfers! While it’s not exactly the BEST surf spot around, the convenience from LA and interesting social scene make it a top place to hop in the water.

The main surf spot in Venice is breakwater, right near the famous Venice sign. There are a couple of peaks between the 2 jetties, but it mainly breaks right by the rocks for a long, but fast right-hander. It’s best during mid to high tide.

The pier is another popular spot where you can choose from a hollow left to the north or a fun right to the south. There are also plenty of beach breaks up and down Venice to make an attempt at escaping the crowds.

👉 Info + pricing on surf lessons at Venice Beach
❗CLICK HERE FOR GROUP LESSONS❗
❗CLICK HERE FOR PRIVATE LESSONS❗

11. El Porto

Located just south of LAX in Manhattan Beach, El Porto is arguably the most popular surf area in the South Bay of Los Angeles. While you can really surf the beach breaks at any point along the beach from the refinery down to the pier, it’s often best around 42nd St. and Bruce’s Beach.

Porto is often walled up, breaks quickly, and is dumpy, but when the conditions are right – it can be a total blast! It’s the most consistent surf spot in the South Bay and usually has the biggest waves in the area. This means it’s often one of the few local spots you can surf in the summertime when the waves get smaller.

To get there, turn towards the beach onto 45th St. where Highland Ave. turns into Vista Del Mar to enter a metered parking lot.

El Porto in particular draws a range of surfers from pros and intense shortboarders to beginners and those just looking to get out in the water. I will say, while you can rent boards right on the beach and there are many new surfers out in the water, it’s really not a good spot for beginners on MOST days.

In general, the South Bay tends to be mostly ruled by short boarders who are adept in quick, steep waves. There are plenty of other spots in LA that will have slower, smaller waves that are much better for those looking to learn.

12. Manhattan Beach Pier

When facing the pier, surfers typically find the best breaks to the right. Similar conditions to El Porto, this spot provides ease of access to plenty of shopping and restaurants along Manhattan Beach Blvd.

👉 Info + pricing on surf lessons at Manhattan Beach Pier
❗CLICK HERE❗

13. Hermosa Beach Pier

Local surfers will live and die by surfing Hermosa Pier, however, I’ve always found that the conditions are usually similar to Manhattan Beach but a bit smaller and poorer. Hermosa Beach can be a great spot to check out if you want to go more for the local culture, and to grab a post-surf drink in one of the many bars that line the pier!

 

14. Redondo Breakwater

This spot can be a bit hit or miss depending on the conditions. It used to be one of the best big-wave spots in Los Angeles, however, more often than not the waves break pretty close to the shore and tend to be the same or smaller in size than how it’s breaking at Porto that day.

The breakwall does provide for some nice, consistent lefts and it tends to draw fewer crowds than other local spots. This is one of the better spots in Redondo Beach for trying to catch some nice rides. Park in the lots off Yacht Club Way.

Thinking About Renting a Car?

Unfortunately, you basically have to drive in California to get around. The public transportation system isn’t very reliable, everything is spread out, and Ubers add up.

My go-to car rental service in California is Discover Cars. They compare prices across the leading car rental services to find you the LOWEST prices and BEST deals.

🚗 CLICK HERE TO SEARCH FOR YOUR RENTAL CAR

15. Sapphire & Topaz Street

Sapphire (and Topaz) St. is one of my favorite local surf spots. It’s really nothing special, but during the winter through spring, it can have some nice waves with the right conditions. The waves are often a bit quick and steep with close shore breaks, but they rarely get too big so there are often plenty of beginners still out trying their luck.

The jetty splits the spot in half and depending on the day, either side can work with plenty of beach breaks down the left side up through Knob Hill and down through Torrance Beach as well.

There is plenty of free and metered parking around the area, and it’s always one of the most friendly and welcoming spots I surf around LA!

👉 Info + pricing on surf lessons at Redondo Beach (Topaz St.)
❗CLICK HERE❗

16. Haggerty’s

This little section of the beach is located where Torrance Beach meets the peninsula. You can park either at the paid lot above Torrance Beach by the snack shack or above in a free lot by Malaga Cove School (with a bit of a steep walk down).

Just like the rest of the South Bay, it’s a quick shore break. It’s typically best from winter to spring, but it seems to occasionally work during the summer as well when there’s nowhere else nearby to surf.

>>> MORE: Guide to Surfing in Redondo Beach

17. Surfside

For those willing to drive down to the northern part of Orange County, there is some great surf to be had. Surfside Jetty is a sheltered beach break that is best in the winter months. It mostly breaks to the right and is best at low tide. It’s most often on the small side, which makes it better for newer surfers and groms. However, when it’s big the spot is for experts only.

18. Bolsa Chica State Beach

A good spot for all levels, Bolsa Chica is mostly a pretty standard beach break but can get really good with the right conditions. It works all year round, during the summer it will be mellow and smaller and during the fall to winter, you will find the best waves and certain days where it can get fairly big and fun. There is metered parking as well as free parking along the side streets.

19. Huntington Beach

Of course, “Surf City USA” should be on your list as an epic surf spot to visit while in Los Angeles. Whether you’re actually surfing in Huntington, or just want to catch one of the many competitions that are hosted here year-round, it’s a must-visit spot for its history of surf culture.

Huntington Pier South is where the competitions happen and it typically has the best waves in the area, especially during winter months. There are beach breaks all around, and the area is often known to be a shortboard, high-performance heaven.

👉 Info + pricing on surf lessons at Huntington Beach
❗CLICK HERE❗

Secret Surf Spots in Los Angeles

20. Palos Verdes Cove

I had been surfing consistently in the South Bay (and lived there my whole life) before I had ever heard about PV Cove. It truly feels like a secret surf spot because the cove blocks your view of LA so perfectly and is just absolutely stunning. It feels like you’ve left California completely for a secret paradise!

As a precaution, there is a fair bit of localism here. While most people I’ve encountered are really mellow and lovely, I have also heard some people getting frustrated with other surfers out in the water and being in their “spot.”

The Cove is really only a winter/spring spot, otherwise, it can be a total lake out there. However, during the right time of year with the right swells, it’s a longboarder’s paradise – which is really unheard of in South Bay LA! It’s a long paddle out and rocky, but well worth the long, smooth rides.

To get there, drive up the Palos Verdes Peninsula and park along Paseo Del Mar at the trailhead for the PV Beach Hiking Trail. Walk down the trail (it probably takes about 15 minutes) until you reach the cove. Don’t try surfing at low tide, it’s too rocky.

21. Cabrillo Beach

While Cabrillo Beach usually has absolutely nothing to surf, when there is a big swell coming in and it’s too big everywhere else… this spot truly shines! The waves hit a rock wall that juts off to make for some perfect, slower-breaking rights.

Located in San Pedro, hardly anyone knows about this secret surf spot except for true locals, so it’s often empty, which is certainly rare in LA. Cabrillo has multiple beaches, the one you would surf at is on the southern end, furthest away from the Los Angeles harbor. Plus, there is plenty of affordable parking right at the beach and you can explore the free Cabrillo Marine Aquarium or have a beach bonfire after your session.

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With so many great places to surf in Los Angeles, it can be hard to know where to start. But now that you have this insider information, you’re ready to hit the waves and catch some of the best surfing in Southern California!

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