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San Diego Surf Scene: Inside Scoop
When to Surf in San Diego
The biggest swells come out of the north from December thru February, generated by winter storms in Alaska, but just as often they come with wind and rain. The spring months, March thru May are unpredictable; the waves can come from any direction; the weather can be glorious one minute and miserable the next. In June and July the water begins to warm and south swells begin to arrive. Days of absolute flatness alternate with playful head-high swells.
Generally speaking, San Diego’s best surf season is from August thru November. In late summer and early fall, big orderly south swells combine with Santa Ana winds to produce beautiful offshore barrels. October and November are transition months; the water temperature dips as the swell comes from the west, but light winds and clean conditions prevail and there’s almost always something solid to ride.
Check the Surf Report
At any time of year, the best advice is to check a current surf report to see if there’s any swell and where it’s coming from. Tides can change as much as eight feet in San Diego and have a huge impact on the surf. Some of the reefbreaks in La Jolla go totally dry on a low tide while others crash right on shore when the tide is high.
Also, consider the trade off between getting one or two great waves at a crowded marquis spot, or dozens of good ones at someplace less popular. Beachbreaks are always more reliable and easier to figure out. If your visit to San Diego is a short one, maximize your water time by planning to surf where you stay, or staying where you plan to surf.
Best Boards
Board choice is a matter of personal preference: short boards in the six foot range are usually adequate for all but the biggest days, while a longboard guarantees fun on even the smallest ones. Expect to wear a full length wetsuit from about November thru May, and get away with a bathing suit or light wetsuit from June to October.
Watch out for Waves & Rays
It goes without saying that surfing requires being a competent swimmer, but first time surfers often underestimate the power of the waves and the currents that accompany them. The only other notable hazard are stingrays (prevalent at beach breaks during the summer months), but usually avoidable by shuffling your feet along the bottom. The bigger the waves the greater the risks. Know your limits and, when in doubt, choose an area with active lifeguard supervision.
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San Diego Surf Scene
