San Diego is a surfer’s paradise with several epic beaches for surfers to explore.
We put together a shortlist of 5 of the best surf spots in San Diego that are great starting points for beginner surfers:
- La Jolla Shores
- Mission Beach
- Tourmaline Beach
- Ocean Beach
- Imperial Beach
Before paddling out though, ensure that you are armed with your surfboard, passion, and the right mindset to tackle waves.
Surfing At La Jolla Shores
This is among the best surf beaches in San Diego that boast of quality waves all year round.
It is shielded from the southwest trade wind, creating beautiful rideable waves.
It is considered one of the best surfing spots for beginners due to its friendly beach break.
Avoid the cove as you will not find surfable waves there.
The large waves and rocks are good for taking pictures only. La Jolla’s Windansea is a more challenging break just up around the corner.
La Jolla Shores has a couple of surf schools for all skill levels right in town.
Based on one piece of evidence, La Jolla Shore may be the go to place to get a date.
Surfing At Mission Beach
Mission beach is a long white sandy beach that is located on the southern shores of the Pacific Beach Drive.
It features large parking areas adjacent to the Belmont Park.
On most summer days, this beach is jam-packed with activity including surfers trying to catch the south swells.
At the southern end of the beach, you might be lucky to stumble upon larger waves that will get your adrenalin pumping.
At this beach, you can find surf lessons to boost your skill level and confidence as a surfer.
Surfing At Tourmaline Beach
This surfer’s paradise is located between La Jolla and Ocean Beach and is a perfect spot for both beginners and advanced surfers to explore.
It features a coastal cliff that curves incoming tides to create perfect surfing conditions with the help of the sandbars.
Tourmaline Beach has a surfing park that is visited all year long.
The motto of the park is “Surf Well, Spread Aloha, and Share Waves without Judgment.”
Swimming is prohibited at this beach.
Surf camps and lessons are available at this beach.
Surfing At Ocean Beach
This San Diego beach has a pier that makes it exciting for surfers.
It has a laid back vibe and is a popular surfing spot for beginners and skilled surfers alike.
It has a rich surfing history that dates back to the 70s and 80s.
This exposed beach break offers lefts and rights and that is ideal for surfing at all tides.
The best time to surf here is during winter when you can find consistent rideable swells.
However, beginners may still enjoy the small waves that can be caught at other times of the year.
Surfing At Imperial Beach
This San Diego beach runs the entire length of the Imperial Beach City Beach.
It is a long narrow beach with two parks right on the beach; Dunes Park and Portwood Crystal Pier.
It also has a municipal pier.
This is an exposed beach break with consistent waves, though autumn is the best time to surf at this beach when you can get frequent surf here all year long.
You can learn to surf in San Diego at this beach which is loved by locals.
The Summary: Learning to Surf in San Diego
San Diego presents many opportunities for surfing, given the large number of beginner-friendly beaches.
You can explore any of the San Diego beaches mentioned above if you want to learn how to surf.
You can also benefit from the numerous best surfing lessons that are offered along the beaches.
