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New Yorkers 1st Choice
California's best

Surf spots

Made for those who organize their entire life around the swell and the wind direction.

Based on 481 Opinions
+478
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Updated May 2026
01
UCSD Scripps Pier image 1
UCSD Scripps Pier image 2
UCSD Scripps Pier image 3
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Pier offers stunning sunset views and a dramatic silhouette over calm waters. Surfers love the awesome waves on the northside, while nearby beaches provide a relaxing vibe and peaceful walks along the coast.

Waves at the pier are awesome and attract many surfers. The northside of the pier offers a great spot to catch waves. Nearby shores provide a relaxing beach vibe alongside good surf conditions.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the beautiful sunset views over the Pacific Ocean."

"You can't walk on this beach pier because it's for research."

"The views from this surf spot are stunning and beautiful."

Good to know

1

The pier is closed to the general public, as it's for scientific researchers only.

2

Parking at UCSD Scripps Pier is limited; consider street parking nearby.

3

The beach is open to the public for relaxation and enjoying the ocean.

02
Surfers Point at Seaside Park image 1

Beachside setting offers stunning ocean views and golden sands with towering palms. Waves provide consistent reef breaks ideal for surfers of all levels. Visitors enjoy a laid-back vibe blending peaceful reflection and lively coastal culture.

Waves offer consistent and good surf with a reef break suitable for both short and long boards. This spot attracts surfers with skill and deep surf culture knowledge seeking thrilling rides.

People are saying

"I found the beach beautiful and relaxing."

"The surf spot here has really good waves for surfing."

"It's a great dog-friendly place for walking your dog."

Good to know

1

Parking is often full, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Paid parking is the only option available at Surfers Point.

3

The beach is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

03
Tourmaline Beach image 1

Small beach blends rocky and sandy shoreline with peaceful vibes and beautiful views. Friendly surf break suits beginners and locals, creating a calm but lively scene. Easy parking supports steady crowds of families and surfers.

Waves offer a friendly surf break suitable for beginners and locals alike. The spot has a nice wave quality that draws consistent surfing activity.

People are saying

"Parking available here is pretty easy, even on busy weekends."

"This surf spot is great for beginners looking to build confidence."

"I loved the beautiful views here."

Good to know

1

Parking at Tourmaline Beach is free and generally easy to find.

2

The parking lot can fill up quickly on nice weather days.

3

Public restrooms and showers are available at the beach.

04
El Porto Surf Shop + Surf Lessons & Surf Rentals - by Porto Surf Crew (above Player’s Liquor) image 1

Surf shop near the beach offers wide board selection and affordable rentals with friendly staff. Waves suit all levels and the shop has a laid back atmosphere with free coffee and a private wave cam. Easy beach access makes it perfect for surfers.

Waves at this spot suit surfers of all levels, with friendly staff helping rent fiberglass boards and wetsuits at great prices. The surf shop offers an authentic vibe and easy access to the beach for catching waves.

People are saying

"The staff here are so friendly and helpful with the surf spot."

"This local spot feels like the real deal, a true neighborhood staple."

"Luke offers the best price for fun activities."

Good to know

1

The shop offers a wide range of surfboards and wetsuits for rent.

2

Rental rates are very affordable, making it accessible for all surfers.

3

The shop is located just a short walk from the beach.

05
Boards N' Beans image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop blends surf culture with cozy vibes and ocean views. Outdoor sun deck offers space for groups to relax. Friendly hosts rent boards and wetsuits, while live music and a surf shop with a shaping bay add to the laid-back feel.

Surf shop and coffee combo stands out with great merchandise and surf products. Friendly hosts rent boards and wetsuits, making it easy to enjoy the waves.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was great."

"The coffee and lounge vibes here are excellent."

"I thought the coffee here was great and on point."

Good to know

1

They offer discounts for customers who walk to the shop.

2

Raw milk is available for coffee drinks.

3

All syrups used in drinks are homemade.

06
Degree 33 Surfboards image 1

Surfboards here feature lightweight design and stable foam traction for easy control. They perform well on small and big waves, offering smooth rides even on weak waves. Pricing is competitive, and boards arrive well-packaged and ready to use.

Waves catch easily here thanks to the high volume and low rocker of the boards. Surfboards handle both small and big waves well and offer smooth maneuvers on weak waves.

People are saying

"This surf spot's boards catch weak waves easily and glide effortlessly."

"I loved the detailed updates and immediate contact about my delivery."

"The team here is great to work with and always puts customers first."

Good to know

1

The surfboards are priced around $300 less than other brands.

2

Expect excellent customer service and support from Degree 33 Surfboards.

3

The boards are durable and perform well in both small and big waves.

07
Pacific Beach Surf Shop | San Diego Surf Lessons image 1

Shop on the beach offers quality rentals and surf lessons with helpful instructors. Atmosphere is chill and welcoming, making it great for learning and hanging out. Pricing is affordable, supporting a positive vibe for all skill levels.

Surfing lessons happen here with helpful instructors guiding wave catching. The spot works well for learning and improving surfing skills.

People are saying

"The instructors made learning to surf really fun and enjoyable."

"The staff here are so patient and friendly with kids."

"The instructors here are amazing and really helped me up on the board."

Good to know

1

Wetsuits are priced under $100 for used options, with fair market prices for new ones.

2

Surf lessons focus on building confidence and are available for all skill levels.

3

The shop offers a variety of surfboards suitable for all abilities.

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