From its “humble beginnings” as an ancient Polynesian art to its explosive rise to popularity in mid-20th century California, surfing has become not just a sport but a way of life deeply ingrained in the fabric of LA. Blessed with a bounty of incredible breaks spanning from north to south, the city boasts a year-round playground for wave enthusiasts of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice eager to catch your first swell, let’s dive in our list for the top beaches for surf in Los Angeles.
1. Huntington Beach Pier, Huntington Beach
Looking for where to surf in Los Angeles? With a pedigree dating back a century, featuring demonstrations by Hawaiian surf legends like George Freeth and Duke Kahanamoku, Huntington State Beach Pier or “surf city”, stands as Southern California’s most sacred surf and kitesurf sanctuary. Hosting the prestigious Wallex US Open of Surf, it remains a focal point for American surfing. Beginners can even catch waves where champions like Andy Irons and Kelly Slater once triumphed.
🏄 Ideal for: Intermediate surfers
2. El Porto, Manhattan Beach
Surfing at El Porto epitomizes the iconic Southern California beach experience of surfing in Manhattan beach, boasting white sands, volleyball courts, and a vibrant crowd of sun enthusiasts. It’s a prime surfing location, particularly in the fall and winter when sizable swells from the northwest grace its shores. Summer months cater well to beginners. Although parking is available, spaces fill up fast, so arriving early is recommended to secure a spot and hit the waves.
🏄 Ideal for: Intermediate to experienced surfers
3. Ocean Park, Santa Monica
Lejune via Unsplash.
Nestled at the end of Main Street in Santa Monica, this beach was once christened Pacific Ocean Park, paying homage to the nautical-themed amusement park located at the pier’s tip. Today, the spotlight shines on the place as a premier destination for surf in Los Angeles. It can be described as a lively beach break with a surfable point. The downside? It’s typically crowded, so early birds have the best shot at scoring some solo waves.
🏄 Ideal for: Beginner surfers
4. The Breakwater, Venice Beach
Venice Beach offers a vibrant and eccentric atmosphere, unique experiences like having a gondola cruise or grabbing a burger at Jim Morrison’s favorite joint. And among many other things, it’s perfect for catching mostly gentle waves. The area is teeming with surf rental shops and instructors, making it an excellent choice for beginners looking to dip their toes into surfing. And when you’ve had your fill of the waves, take some time to soak in the ambiance – from drum circles to roller skaters to hula hoopers, the beach is alive with colorful characters, making it one of the most unforgettable destinations in Southern California.
🏄 Ideal for: Intermediate surfers
5. The Wedge, Newport Beach
A more appropriate name for this place should be ‘The Beast’, since Newport Beach’s world-famous body surfing and bodyboarding waves are true sea monsters. It forms during south swells when waves refract off the rock jetty and then collide with an incoming second wave. The result? Huge waves reaching up to ten meters high and all sorts of aquatic chaos best observed from the safety of the shore.
🏄 Ideal for: Highly experienced surfers
6. Sunset Point, Pacific Palisades
Located at the end of Sunset Boulevard, which is the conclusion of Route 66, Sunset Point Beach (or Sunset Beach) emerges as a prime destination for beginners and stand-up paddleboarders eager to catch waves and surf in Los Angeles. This spot garners favor among longboarders, paddleboarders, and novices alike, making it an ideal locale for mastering the art of surfing.
🏄 Ideal for: Beginner surfers
7. Surfrider Beach, Malibu
If you need proof of Surfrider Beach’s significance in the surf scene in Los Angeles, look no further than its designation as the inaugural World Surfing Reserve by the Save the Waves Coalition. Surfrider played a crucial role in shaping surfing’s cultural impact, earning its place as a destination wave. While not suitable for beginners, it stands as a goal for any surfer aspiring to not only surf In Los Angeles, but conquer its waves.
🏄 Best for: Intermediate surfers
8. Rincon Point, Carpintería
Located in one of the loveliest small towns near L.A., it’s known as the “Queen of the Coast” and hailed by surf historian Matt Warshaw as the definitive point break in the United States. Its waves are so exceptional during winter swells, that it makes it a premiere beach if you’re looking to surf in Los Angeles. If by any chance, you drive along U.S. 101 and spot a crowded lineup, make sure to pull over and witness the action.
🏄 Ideal for: Experienced surfers
9. Topanga Beach, Topanga
This beach is ideal for surf in Los Angeles, specially during a south swell. The waves here can reach heights exceeding 10 feet, and they’re quite reliable with a sandy ocean floor. But, as what happens with many other great beaches, it can get packed making it challenging to snag a wave for yourself. Despite the crowds, the popularity of this spot speaks volumes about the enjoyable waves surfers can ride.
🏄 Ideal for: Intermediate surfers
10. Redondo Beach, Los Angeles
In these charming coastal community, the very essence of SoCal beach culture thrives with laid-back bars, cozy coffee shops, and a plethora of surfers soaking up the atmosphere along The Strand, a picturesque 22-mile waterfront promenade. While the surfing scene here is vibrant, it’s the buzzing beach vibe that truly captivates, yet there are still numerous noteworthy breaks worth exploring, especially for first-time visitors eager to surf in Los Angeles.
🏄 Ideal for: Beginners surfers
11. Leo Carrillo Beach, Malibu
Situated about eight miles north of Zuma Beach, Leo Carrillo emerges as a popular destination among novices exploring surf in Los Angeles, and also as an iconic filming location. There’s a fun reef along the right side that ends on a sandbar, great for wave adventures. While on sand, there’s a noticeable family-friendly ambiance. On-site amenities such as showers and fire rings enhance the surfing experience, while visitors can also enjoy the fantastic biking and hiking trails close to the beach.
🏄 Ideal for: Beginner to intermediate surfers
12. Zuma Beach, Malibu
Located on Pacific Coast Highway just north of Tower 9, Zuma Beach is a bit farther out compared to Ocean Park or Topanga. However, the journey is worthwhile to enjoy fewer crowds, consistent breaks along the three-mile expanse, and a sandy bottom beach break with excellent whitewater take-offs. Another advantage for families in particular is that Zuma Beach hosts several surf camps tailored for kids!
🏄 Best for: Beginner to intermediate surfers