LA has several surf spots that are perfect for beginners. Most of these beaches have mellow and consistent waves that are great for learners.
Here are a few surf spots to guide you on deciding where to surf in LA as a beginner. They include:
- Manhattan Beach
- Venice Beach
- Zuma Beach
- Surfrider Beach
- Topanga Beach
The first thing you should consider is the size of the surf you are going to be riding. While 2-3 feet is manageable and fun for a start, a height of 5 feet or more could easily overwhelm you.
It’s LA, so do your best, but try to avoid surf spots that are overcrowded and/or lack surf etiquette. Where there are more surfers, especially newbies, there are more accidents. You can try surfing at off-hours after the locals have gone home and the crowds have thinned out.
With that said, some of the beaches listed can be a gem for beginners.
Surfing At Manhattan Beach
This beach is perfect for surfing novices, especially during the summer when most of the waves are rideable.
The low tides will afford you longer rides while the higher tides will allow you to catch softer waves.
The beach has several parking lots to accommodate the crowds that frequent.
All in all, Manhattan Beach can be a great beginner’s surf spot.
Surfing At Venice Beach
This is not the ideal beginner-friendly surf spot.
However, once you have the basics under your belt and you are ready for a challenged explore and the pier where you can find challenging surf.
Beginners can try the south end of the beach by the marina jetty where smaller waves can be caught.
Surfing At Zuma Beach
This surf spot is located in the northern part of Malibu and is a popular beach among locals and visitors as well.
It features beginner-friendly waves and isn’t too crowded for LA.
On occasion, you may encounter a share of rip currents that are difficult to navigate.
So, study the water before paddling out to avoid dangerous situations.
Zuma Beach is also popular for windsurfing, bodysurfing, diving, kiteboarding, beach volleyball, and other water sports.
Surfing At Surfrider Beach
This Malibu beach break is an iconic sandy beach that is located between the Malibu Pier and the Malibu Lagoon.
It has one of the best surfing waves for new surfers and just about anyone who wants to have fun on a surfboard.
Lifeguards are on duty during peak hours to watch the kids and new surfers.
Surfing At Topanga Beach
This beach is located on 18700 Pacific Coast Highway and is perfect for adventurous surfers who want to go out on a longboard.
The waves wrap around Topanga Creek to create a continuous right break. It is a quintessential California wave and hosts a local crowd.
It is a famous beach that attracts tons of visitors each year.
It plays host to several festivals including the Topanga Earth Day which is a yearly event.
More LA Surf Spots
LA has quite a bit of coastline. The above surf spots just touch the surface of the waves you can find.
Other notable spots include: El Porto, Redondo Beach, Santa Monica and Sunset Point Beach. Discover Los Angeles can be a great resource for surfing and all things LA.
Los Angeles can be a dream destination for surfers of all levels.
