California Surf Culture
California is where modern surf culture was born. From the Beach Boys to Kelly Slater, the Golden State has shaped surfing worldwide. 840 miles of coastline mean endless wave-riding possibilities.
Southern California
San Diego
- Black's Beach: Powerful beach break, clothing optional
- La Jolla: Reefs and points for all levels
- Pacific Beach: Classic California beach break
- Imperial Beach: Consistent waves, less crowded
Orange County
- Trestles: World-class cobblestone points
- Huntington Beach: Surf City USA, pier waves
- Newport Beach: The Wedge for bodyboarders
- San Clemente: T-Street and beyond
Los Angeles
- Malibu: The ultimate point break
- Venice Beach: Beach break, iconic boardwalk
- El Porto: Consistent beach break
- Palos Verdes: Rocky points and reefs
Central California
Santa Barbara
- Rincon: "Queen of the Coast" right point
- Sandspit: Sand-bottom barrel machine
- Leadbetter: Beginner-friendly waves
Big Sur to Monterey
- Carmel: Cold but beautiful
- Moss Landing: Harbor waves
- Dramatic coastline, requires exploration
Northern California
Santa Cruz
- Steamer Lane: The epicenter of NorCal surfing
- Pleasure Point: Multiple right-hand points
- Cowell's: Perfect for longboards and beginners
San Francisco
- Ocean Beach: Heavy, powerful beach break
- Pacifica: Linda Mar for beginners
- Mavericks: Big wave spot (experts only)
Best Seasons
- Fall: Best overall - warm water, consistent swells
- Winter: Biggest waves, cold water
- Spring: Variable, can be excellent
- Summer: Smaller waves, warmest water
What to Bring
- 3/2mm wetsuit minimum (4/3mm for NorCal)
- Booties for Northern California
- Multiple board options
- Sunscreen - California sun is strong