Los Angeles may be known for its Hollywood glamor and year-round sunshine, but for surfers, it’s something else entirely. Beneath the laid-back SoCal vibe lies a deep-rooted surf culture, where locals rise with the sun to chase the perfect swell. With a coastline that stretches for miles, LA offers a diverse array of breaks, from beginner-friendly waters to challenging waves for the seasoned pro.
Whether you’re visiting LA or are a local looking to up your surf game, knowing where to go is key. This guide will walk you through the best surf spots in the LA area, complete with insider knowledge, tips on where to avoid crowds, and a few hidden gems you won’t find in your average surf guide.
1. The Icon: Malibu Surfrider Beach
Let’s start with a classic: Malibu Surfrider Beach. As one of the most iconic surf spots in the world, Malibu has been immortalized in films, TV shows, and the dreams of surfers everywhere. Located just off Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu is known for its long, right-hand point breaks, making it a paradise for longboarders and shortboarders alike.
Why You Should Surf Here:
- Long, peeling waves: Malibu offers perfect, machine-like right-handers, ideal for long rides and smooth carving.
- Cultural landmark: There’s something special about surfing where legends like Miki Dora and the Z-Boys honed their craft.
Insider Tips:
- Timing is everything: Malibu gets packed—especially on weekends. If you’re not a fan of crowded waters, hit the beach at dawn, or visit during the off-season when the crowds thin out.
- Parking: There’s limited parking along the Pacific Coast Highway, but if you arrive early, you can snag a spot in the lot next to the pier.
2. Venice Beach: The Bohemian Surf Scene
Known for its eclectic boardwalk, Venice Beach has a surf scene that’s just as vibrant as its street performers. The waves at Venice Breakwater cater to surfers of all skill levels, but it’s particularly friendly for beginners and intermediates.
Why You Should Surf Here:
- Consistency: Venice delivers steady, fun waves year-round, with a breakwater that creates ideal conditions for learning and progression.
- People-watching: Venice is a cultural experience in itself. Before or after your session, grab a coffee and take in the scene—it’s unlike anywhere else.
Insider Tips:
- Know the break: The Venice Breakwater can be tricky for first-timers. Watch the locals for a bit to understand the wave patterns.
- Local crowd: Venice’s waves are popular with local surfers, so remember surf etiquette. Stay respectful and you’ll fit right in.
3. Santa Monica: A Beginner’s Paradise
If you’re just getting your feet wet, Santa Monica Beach is a great place to start. With its forgiving waves and soft sandy bottom, this spot is ideal for beginners looking to get comfortable with the basics.
Why You Should Surf Here:
- Gentle waves: Santa Monica has mellow surf most of the year, perfect for longboarders or anyone just starting out.
- Close to everything: After your surf session, you’re steps away from the iconic Santa Monica Pier, restaurants, and shopping.
Insider Tips:
- Crowds: While the surf is ideal for beginners, it’s also a popular beach for tourists. Early mornings or weekdays are your best bet to avoid the crowd.
- Surf schools galore: If you’re new to surfing, Santa Monica is home to some of the best surf schools in the area. Consider booking a lesson for personalized instruction.
4. El Porto, Manhattan Beach: For the Consistent Swell Chaser
For those seeking consistent waves and more of a local experience, El Porto at the north end of Manhattan Beach is the spot. With reliable surf year-round and a bit of extra power compared to some other LA spots, it’s a favorite among intermediate and advanced surfers.
Why You Should Surf Here:
- Consistent swells: El Porto picks up on almost any swell direction, providing reliable waves throughout the year.
- Variety of breaks: From smaller waves on the inside to larger sets further out, this spot caters to a range of skill levels.
Insider Tips:
- Winter magic: The best time to surf here is in the winter when El Porto starts picking up those solid north swells.
- Suit up: Even in summer, the water here tends to be colder than spots further south. A good wetsuit is a must year-round.
5. Topanga Beach: A Point Break Lover’s Dream
Nestled between Malibu and Pacific Palisades, Topanga Beach is a hidden gem for surfers who love point breaks. Less crowded than Malibu but offering a similar wave quality, Topanga delivers long, peeling rights that make it a must-visit for experienced surfers.
Why You Should Surf Here:
- Quality right-handers: Topanga’s point break serves up long rides, especially when there’s a good south swell.
- Scenic beauty: With dramatic cliffs framing the beach, Topanga is one of the most picturesque spots to surf in LA.
Insider Tips:
- Tide matters: Topanga works best on a medium to high tide. Too low, and you might find yourself scraping rocks.
- Parking can be a pain: The parking lot is small and fills up quickly. If you don’t mind a bit of a hike, try parking along Topanga Canyon Road.
6. Zuma Beach: Escape the Crowds
Located just north of Malibu, Zuma Beach offers a welcome escape from the packed lineups of more famous spots. With plenty of space and more powerful waves, Zuma is best suited for intermediates to advanced surfers.
Why You Should Surf Here:
- More power: Zuma’s waves pack more of a punch than some of the gentler spots closer to the city.
- Wide-open spaces: Even on busier days, Zuma’s long stretch of beach ensures there’s room to spread out.
Insider Tips:
- Watch the rips: Zuma is known for its strong rip currents, so stay aware, especially on bigger days.
- Windy afternoons: Mornings are the best time to catch Zuma before the afternoon winds pick up and start to blow out the waves.
7. Hermosa Beach: Vibe With the Locals
Just south of Manhattan Beach lies Hermosa Beach, a quintessential SoCal surf town where the locals dominate the lineup. The waves here are consistent but tend to be a little more mellow, making it a great spot for all levels of surfers.
Why You Should Surf Here:
- Laid-back vibes: Hermosa offers the perfect blend of quality waves and a chill atmosphere.
- Consistency: No matter the time of year, you can count on Hermosa to deliver decent surf, thanks to its wide exposure to various swells.
Insider Tips:
- Surf at sunrise: Hermosa Beach can get busy later in the day, but if you paddle out early, you’ll score empty waves and a stunning sunrise.
- Check the Pier: The waves near Hermosa Pier often offer the best shape, but also the largest crowd. Explore the area north and south of the pier for less competition.
8. The Hidden Gem: Sunset Point
If you’re looking for a true hidden gem in the LA area, Sunset Point is your spot. Located near Pacific Palisades, this lesser-known break delivers surprisingly good waves on the right day, with far fewer crowds.
Why You Should Surf Here:
- Quiet charm: Sunset Point is the perfect place to escape the crowds without sacrificing wave quality.
- Shortboard-friendly: While many LA spots cater to longboarders, Sunset offers steep, fast waves that shortboarders will love.
Insider Tips:
- Swell direction: Sunset works best on a solid west or southwest swell. It’s a bit of a gamble, but when it’s on, it’s on.
- Bring your patience: Since it’s less frequented, the lineup at Sunset Point can be more relaxed, but this also means you’ll need to wait for the right conditions.
9. Surfing Etiquette in LA: Know Before You Go
While LA’s surf scene is welcoming, it’s important to respect local customs. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Don’t drop in: Always wait your turn and respect the wave priority. Dropping in on someone’s wave is the quickest way to get called out.
- Respect the locals: Certain spots, especially the more localized breaks, have their own unspoken rules. Watch, listen, and respect those who call the spot home.
- Know your limits: LA offers waves for all levels, but make sure you’re choosing spots that match your ability.
10. Final Thoughts: Ride the LA Wave
Surfing in Los Angeles is more than just a sport—it’s a lifestyle. Whether you’re paddling out at sunrise in Malibu or catching your first wave at Santa Monica, LA’s diverse surf spots offer something for everyone. From the world-famous breaks to the hidden gems, the city’s coastlines are a playground for wave riders of all skill levels.
If you’re visiting, rent a board and dive in. If you’re a local, take advantage of everything this beautiful stretch of coastline has to offer. Either way, there’s always another wave waiting in LA—so grab your board and go get it!
