BEST SURF SPOTS IN UNITED STATES
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San Diego
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The Top 20 Surf spots in United States:
Westward Beach
About Westward Beach
Westward Beach in Malibu is a premier destination for both surfing and bodyboarding enthusiasts. Known for its vibrant summer scene, this spot attracts a mix of seasoned locals and eager newcomers, including kids from the Valley looking to catch their first wave. The beach can get crowded, but it's a fantastic place to enjoy the surf.
Atmosphere
Westward Beach, affectionately known as "Westies" by the locals, has a unique atmosphere that fosters mutual respect among its diverse community. Whether you're a stand-up surfer or a dedicated bodyboarder, there's a strong sense of camaraderie here. Experienced riders appreciate the challenging conditions and the shared respect for the sport. However, it's crucial to leave any prejudice at home—Westies thrives on the mutual respect between surfers and bodyboarders. If you harbor any dislike for the other group, it's best to find another spot.
Additional Info
Parking can be a hassle, especially during peak times. While you can usually find a spot along the road, the nearby Gray Whale restaurant offers parking for $5 if the beach lot is full. Despite this minor inconvenience, Westward Beach remains a beloved spot for its diverse and vibrant surfing community.
The waves at Westies are not for the faint-hearted. This spot is renowned for its heavy closeouts, especially on good days. Surfers must be prepared to handle these powerful conditions and watch out for strong rips and shallow waters. A wrong move can lead to serious injuries, such as neck tweaks, due to the heavy, closeout waves.
Summary
Westward Beach is a true gem in Malibu's surfing scene. Its blend of challenging waves, diverse crowd, and the vibrant summer atmosphere make it an exciting place to surf and bodyboard. Just remember to respect the local etiquette, stay cautious of the powerful surf, and enjoy the unique vibe that makes Westies a standout spot on the California coast.
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Sand Dollar Beach
Sand Dollar Beach is a top-rated surfing spot along the renowned Central Coast's Big Sur. This stretch of coastline is considered one of the most spectacular in the world, and you have the chance to ride the waves here. The main break at Sand Dollar Beach is a reef that produces a right-hand wave over the boulders, which we particularly enjoy on 3-5 foot days. However, stronger waves will require more effort to paddle out due to the notorious Sur rips. While sharks are always a potential danger, the area is relatively uncrowded, which is a bonus.
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Linda Mar
Linda Mar (The Poor Person's Cowell's) - Pacifica, California
Linda Mar features a beach break with both right and left-hand waves, characterized by a sandy bottom interspersed with rocks. The spot is accessible via Pacific Coast Highway, with multiple parking lots available. It works best at mid to high tide, particularly during rising tide conditions, and is ideal for beginner to intermediate surfers.
This mile-long stretch of beach is somewhat sheltered, making it a reliable option when other spots are blown out. While the surf quality typically ranges from poor to mediocre, winter swells can produce solid waves. The atmosphere is friendly, though localism can be an issue. Expect a crowded scene on weekends, primarily filled with casual surfers rather than locals. Be cautious of pollution and the occasional shark sighting, especially near the creek at the south end, which can affect water quality.
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Black Beach
Blacks is one of the best san diego's wave. A canyon concentrate the wave power to this place. Blacks handle any size with numerable lefts and righs . The surf here can be world class and beginner are not welcome. Best at low and mid-tide, best still nice at high tide
Swell of the year 2023
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Carmel Beach
Carmel Beach is one of the most popular surfing spots on the Monterey Peninsula, with a nearly straight-on westerly orientation that generates powerful waves during the fall and winter seasons.
On small days, the beach can be an ideal spot for beginner and intermediate surfers, thanks to the long, curved rights that break over the sand and quickly turn into playful, mushy waves. Although there are some rocks in the area, they tend to be quite deep and not a significant concern for most surfers.
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Mavericks
Mavericks - Pillar Point
Mavericks is a world-renowned reef break characterized by powerful, ledgey waves that break predominantly to the right over a rocky bottom. This heavy-duty big wave spot is only for experienced surfers, as conditions can be treacherous with cold water and the presence of sharks. It works at all tides, with optimal conditions during rising and falling tides.
Located at Pillar Point, accessing Mavericks typically requires a 40-minute paddle from a small beach near the north jetty after parking south of Pillar Point. Alternatively, surfers can opt for a boat trip from Princeton Harbor for quicker access. The spot is known for its intense surf conditions, attracting expert big-wave riders seeking to tackle some of the largest waves on the planet. Surfers should be cautious of rips, undertows, and sharp rocks, making it essential to respect the power of the ocean in this federally protected area.
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Gillin's
Gillin's - Kauai, Hawaii
Gillin's features predominantly right-hand reef breaks over flat rocks, providing fun waves suitable for various skill levels. The spot can handle swells up to 2.4 meters (8 ft) and works well at all tides. Access is straightforward, with a short walk from the parking area to the beach.
This uncrowded surf spot is ideal for those seeking a peaceful getaway. During the week, surfers can expect minimal crowds, often just 2-4 people in the water. While the right-hand waves dominate, occasional lefts can pack some power, albeit shorter in length. Caution is advised due to shallow rocks and coral in the inside section. The area also offers a sandy beach break nearby, perfect for bodyboarding or family fun. Overall, Gillin's is a hidden gem for surfers looking to escape the busier south shore breaks.
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Big Rock
Big Rock - South of Windansea
Big Rock features powerful left-breaking waves over a rocky reef bottom, ideal for experienced surfers. The spot is known for its hollow and fast barrels, particularly at mid and high tide. Access requires a short walk of 5-15 minutes, but caution is advised due to sharp rocks and localism.
Located just south of Windansea, Big Rock, also known as Moids or Lobster Lounge, offers a challenging surf experience. The rocky ledge creates tricky conditions, making it essential for surfers to be skilled and confident. The atmosphere can be competitive, with a tight take-off zone that demands precision. Tuberiding here is reserved for experts, as the heavy waves require advanced techniques. Surfers should remain vigilant of the dangerous rocks and the aggressive vibe in the lineup, ensuring they are prepared for the challenges that await at this epic surf spot.
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Salt Creek Heroins
Salt Creek Heroins - California
Salt Creek Heroins is a point break featuring both right and left waves, breaking over a reef with a mix of coral and sharp rocks, along with sand. This spot requires a significant northwest to west swell to come alive, typically only breaking during rare conditions. Access involves a long walk (over 30 minutes) from the parking lot at Salt Creek.
Located just north of Salt Creek Beach, this surf spot caters to intermediate surfers and can handle various swell sizes. The atmosphere is generally relaxed, though it can close out at times, limiting the potential for barrels. When conditions align, Salt Creek Heroins offers fast, powerful waves that can be both fun and challenging. Be mindful of localism, rips, and undertow, and prepare for variability in wave quality. The best conditions occur at mid tide with rising and falling tides, making it essential to check the forecast before heading out.
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Avalanche
Avalanche - San Diego, California
Avalanche is a beach break featuring both right and left waves over a sandy bottom. Known for its hollow and fast surf, it offers powerful conditions, particularly at low tide during a falling tide. The spot is accessible via a short walk from the parking lot, making it convenient for surfers.
Located near the Ocean Beach Jetty, Avalanche attracts a mix of locals and visitors, especially during summer. The atmosphere can be lively, with various peaks suitable for surfers of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced. While it provides year-round surf opportunities, the prime season runs from November to February. Be prepared for crowded conditions and potential hazards like rips and localism. Always check the surf cam at sundiego.com for real-time conditions before heading out.
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Law Street
Law Street - San Diego, California
Law Street features a left-breaking beach break with a sandy bottom, ideal for beginners. The waves are generally powerless, making it a great spot for those new to surfing. Access is straightforward, with public access available and a short walk (5-15 minutes) from either Grand or Garnet Street.
This spot is known for its chill atmosphere, attracting a mixed crowd of surfers, particularly during the week when it’s less crowded. Early mornings or late nights are the best times to surf, avoiding the ultra-crowded weekends. While the local vibe is generally friendly, it's advisable to be cautious of loose boards in the water. Law Street serves as a social hub for the surfing community, providing a relaxed environment to enjoy the waves and sunsets.
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Bald Head Island- Point
Bald Head Island - Point
Bald Head Island features a right-hand point break over a sandy bottom, delivering fast and fun waves. The spot is epic during the right swells, particularly at low and mid tide with a rising tide. Access requires a ferry from Southport, NC, followed by a short walk to the point.
This secluded surf destination is seldom crowded due to its challenging access and ferry fee. Camp right on the beach for a weekend of surfing with friends, enjoying long rides when conditions align. The point is located where East-facing beaches meet South-facing beaches, known as Cape Fear, making it a unique surf experience. Be cautious of rips, undertow, and sharks while enjoying this hidden gem.
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White Plains Beach
White Plains Beach - Oahu, Hawaii
White Plains Beach features powerless reef waves breaking both right and left over a coral and sand bottom. The spot is accessible with instant access and is known for its crowded conditions, especially on weekends.
Located on the leeward side of Oahu, White Plains Beach is ideal for beginners and longboarders, offering a relaxed atmosphere with a friendly vibe. The wide sandy beach is perfect for families, and the area is often filled with locals and servicemen. While the waves are generally mild, larger south swells can provide more challenging conditions. Be cautious of the currents, which may lead towards Barbers. With ample parking and facilities, this spot is a great choice for a casual surf session or a family day at the beach.
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1st Street Jetty
1st Street Jetty - Virginia Beach
1st Street Jetty features a sandy bottom with both right and left breaking waves, offering ordinary to fun power. This spot is accessible with instant access (<5 min walk) after paying a $4 parking fee. It works at all tides, with rising and falling tide movements, making it a reliable choice for surfers.
Located by the north side of Rudee Inlet, 1st Street Jetty is a key surfing destination in Virginia Beach, known for its consistent surf, especially when other breaks are flat. The atmosphere can be lively and crowded, particularly in summer and during events like the East Coast Surfing Championships. Expect a mix of surfers, from novices to seasoned locals, but be cautious of localism and crowded conditions. While the water can be frigid, the fun waves make it a popular spot for all skill levels, though advanced surfers may find the competition challenging.
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Little Point
Little Point - La Jolla
Little Point features hollow, steep takeoff waves that break both right and left over a rocky reef with sharp coral and sand. The spot works best during south swells and is optimal at mid to rising tide. It can get crowded, especially in summer, with more than four surfers in the tight take zone.
Located just north of Windansea, access to Little Point is straightforward. Surfers can reach it by taking Pearl towards the beach, then left on La Jolla Blvd, and right on Fernglen. The break is at the foot of Fernglen, with a dirt path providing instant access. Caution is advised due to the rocky bottom, and surfers should be mindful of the crowd, particularly during peak hours when the swells are pumping.
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Santa Clara Court
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Santa Clara Court - Mission Beach, San Diego
Santa Clara Court features a sandbar break with both right and left waves, offering fun conditions primarily during mid-tide on a rising swell. The best surf occurs from late summer through fall, particularly with a steep-angled small to medium size swell. The spot can become hollow in the early morning but tends to blow out by late morning due to onshore winds.
Located in central San Diego, this beach break is less crowded than nearby spots, making it a favorable choice for surfers seeking a more relaxed atmosphere. Access is straightforward, with public parking available, though limited street parking can be a challenge. While the local vibe is generally friendly, respect and etiquette are crucial, especially with the presence of surf schools. Expect a mix of surfers, from beginners to experienced, and be mindful of potential rips and localism. The area is also known for its lively beach culture, where drinking on the sand is permitted.
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