Whether you’re a beginner bracing the whitewater or a semi-pro doing aerials off the wave lip, here’s an easy breakdown for anyone looking to surf around Southern California.
1. Surfrider, Malibu
The first beach on the list is also the most famous. An epicenter for the surf boom back in the ’60s and ’70s, this beach was the stomping ground for what many call the “surf culture” that has become synonymous with California. This spot is a great place for advanced riders and beginners alike as it offers both a break by the rocks which has a steeper drop more suited for advanced riders, and a longer more rounded break on the inside for beginners to get the ropes of how to surf. If you find yourself at Surfrider Beach, then refresh on surfing etiquette, such as if you steal (snake in surfer lingo) someone’s wave, they won’t be too happy.
2. El Porto, Manhattan Beach
This is the most versatile wave spot in Los Angeles, and has the benefit of being on the south of the Santa Monica split. This wave will suit all of your needs, and I mean everything. For beginners who want to learn, there will be easy two-foot waves to surf, and you can grab a snack at the food shack after your efforts. If you’re an intermittent surfer, you have some great steep slopes that go both left and right to help you advance in your surfing abilities. For advanced surfers, some sets can get up to fifteen feet high on the swell days, and can even barrel overhead. Friendly reminder, make sure to wear a leash or your board will end up on the beach.
3. Topanga, Malibu
If the idea of paddling far out into the ocean on a shortboard is scary, then Topanga is the place. Arguably the most popular longboard surfing spot, this is a great place for surfers to hone their skills while not having to worry about balancing on a smaller board. The waves here are typically knee height and offer long waves that are both great for those looking for an after-school wave sesh and for those looking to get better at their longboarding.
4. Zeroes, Malibu
As a surfer you either ride with your left or right foot forward. If your right foot is forward you’re goofy, if your left is forward then you’re a regular rider. This spot is made for regular riders. With waves that only break right, this is a great place for people who want to get better at turning on a wave. This area is beautiful and offers cliffside views and peace, not present at some of the other breaks. Notably, this is not beginner terrain, but instead a great spot for people who know how to surf already and want to continue getting better.
5. Doheny, Dana Point
While Doheny is not in Los Angeles, it would be a crime to not put it on this list. Doheny is the best beach for beginners. The waves are consistent and will always have a strong sloping set that you can ride in either direction. It doesn’t matter how bad you are, you are bound to catch a wave at Doheny. Now on set days, those advanced surfers can get a nice ride as well so don’t count it out because it’s beginner-friendly. For people who want to go out and have fun regardless of the conditions, this is the spot.
6. Palos Verdes Cove, Palos Verdes
To round out this list we have a spot that is another iconic location. The Palos Verdes Cove offers great long waves perfect for longboarders, and on specific days, shortboards as well. The surf cove might take the title on this list for most beautiful scenery, as it sits at the corner of two cliff faces and is in the middle of the kelp forest, which means you’ll likely see fish and sea creatures of all kinds below the waves. The one downside is that this is not a spot for learning, and is often considered a locals-only terrain. People who want to surf this spot better make sure they get their first wave, or most often, the locals in the water won’t let them catch another.
When you feel like you’re up for the surfing challenge, these are some of the best places to visit. Make sure to bring a wetsuit, a leash, and a board, and have a great day in the water. Keep surfing.
