Top Surf Towns in California
The Golden Coast of California is home to some of the best surf spots in the United States. Whether you are a novice looking to get up on your first wave or a thrill-seeking veteran in pursuit of huge swells, California has got everything. The Powderhound team have researched the best locations to help you explore the 120-year history of surfing in California.
Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach is a vibrant surf town in Orange County known for its welcoming atmosphere and bohemian charm. Thalia Street offers gentle breaks that are perfect for beginners while the more challenging Rockpile is ideal for experienced surfers, it caters to surfers of all skill levels. Beyond the surf, the town boasts a thriving art scene, unique boutique shops, and stunning coves for diving, making it a destination full of good vibes and diverse experiences.
Fun Fact: Finding a place to stay with gorgeous Pacific views, too, is no difficult task as the state boasts the most beachfront lodging than any other city in the state.
Huntington Beach
Huntington Beach, known as Surf City, USA, offers a quintessential Southern California surf experience with a lively yet accessible beach atmosphere. Renowned for its consistent waves, it's a great spot for surfers to find their place in the lineup. After a session, visitors can relax on the iconic pier, sample local cuisine, and chat with the seasoned surfers sharing their stories.
Fun Fact: Huntington Beach is the home of the World Surf League’s annual US Open in what is the biggest surfing competition in the world.
Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara may seem like a quiet coastal spot whose beaches are reserved for sunbathing and ‘taking-it-easy’, but its surf breaks are nothing short of legendary. Home to icons like Kelly Slater and Pat Curren, it offers world-class spots such as Rincon Point, known as the Queen of the Coast, and Leadbetter Point, a haven for beginners. For those seeking straight surfing, Santa Barbara is the perfect destination.
Fun Fact: Santa Barbara County is responsible for a staggering 15% of the summer lemons grown in the United States. When life gives you lemons, you are probably in Santa Barbara.
San Clemente
San Clemente is a paradise for surfers seeking a challenge, attracting pros like Jordy Smith and Yadin Nicol to its famous swells at T-Street and nearby Trestles, a top spot for experienced surfers. With consistent surf year-round, it's a quieter and smaller town compared to others, offering a laid-back atmosphere. While nightlife may be minimal, the Iberian influence on San Clemente's history renders it a mini-Spain with its delicious cuisine and timeless Spanish architecture.
Fun Fact: The sun is out for an average of 281 days of the year, making it one of the most sunny destinations in the country.
Newport Beach
Newport Beach is a legendary surf town, renowned as one of the best bodysurfing destinations on the East Coast, with Southern California's iconic surf culture rooted here. The Wedge, its most famous spot, draws bodysurfers with its towering, dense waves buffered by a jetty, creating ideal swells that, while thrilling, should be considered too extreme for beginners. Beyond the surf, Newport Beach embodies the laid-back, chill vibe that defines the SoCal lifestyle.
Fun Fact: Every year in December, Newport Beach stages one of the biggest and oldest boat parades, with over 100 ornately-furnished yachts and other boats of all shapes and sizes taking the water.
Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz, a lively college surf town, offers quick, short waves that match the energetic vibe of the city. The iconic boardwalk, famous for its vintage rides and carnival treats, is always bustling, especially during surf season. With over a century of surf history, Santa Cruz is also a great place to explore surfing legends, making a visit to the local Surf Museum a must.
Fun Fact: The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is home to one of the oldest amusement parks in the state where the wooden ‘Giant Dipper’ is still standing and serving thrill-seekers today.
Encinitas
Encinitas is the ultimate surf town, embodying SoCal surf culture like no other. Home to surf celebrities, competitive teams, and industry insiders, it boasts excellent waves year-round. Cardiff Reef is a longboarder's paradise, while Seaside attracts surfers of all kinds, with nearby Trestles offering some of the most challenging high-performance swells in the U.S. For true beach culture enthusiasts, Encinitas is nothing short of a pilgrimage spot.
Fun Fact: Encinitas’ famous surf beach Swami’s is rated in the top 5 of surf locations in the world, an infamy deserving of a ‘Beach Boys’ reference in their hit song ‘Surfin’ U.S.A.’
Malibu
Malibu is renowned for its endless sunshine, lively parties, and fantastic surfing, especially for longboarders. The laid-back local community makes it a welcoming stop for surfers, but its popularity with tourists means the beaches can get crowded. While the surf scene is well-established, with experienced locals fiercely guarding their spots, if you're up for the challenge, Malibu promises an unforgettable surf experience.
Fun Fact: Malibu has appeared in numerous films and TV shows, with its beaches, cliffs, and upscale homes serving as settings for productions such as M*A*S*H*, Baywatch, Planet of the Apes, and Two and a Half Men.
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