Waves on Tap Year-Round: The Ultimate Guide to Surfing in Los Angeles
Whether you're new to LA or just passing through, the best way to experience California’s beaches is to surf them! The Southern California coastline is packed with iconic surf spots, offering consistent waves and pleasant water temperatures year-round. With warm weather almost every day of the year, Los Angeles is truly a surfer's paradise.
Whether you're just learning how to surf or are a seasoned shredder, LA has a wave for you. Beginners will benefit from taking a surf lesson with a reputable surf school, helping you progress faster with guided instruction. Most visitors opt to rent surfboards, while those serious about the sport often invest in a used or new surfboard. Don’t forget to check out our surf essentials guide for a complete list of must-have gear.
Here’s our list of the best surf spots in Los Angeles, stretching from South to North:
Jump to...
El Porto, Manhattan Beach
Located in Manhattan Beach, just south of LAX and north of Redondo Beach, El Porto is a long stretch of beach break that’s surfable year-round. Recognizable by the two smoke stacks near the Chevron refinery, this spot is versatile, offering a variety of wave types and conditions suitable for all levels. During summer, El Porto is perfect for beginners, but winter brings thumping A-frame closeouts that challenge even seasoned surfers. Parking can be tricky in the summer, but the consistent waves make it worth the effort. Depending on the conditions shortboards, mid-lengths, or longboards will work here.
Venice Pier, Venice
Venice Pier, located at the end of Washington Blvd where Venice meets Marina Del Rey, is a popular beach break that works best on northwest and combo swells. Ideal for surfers of all skill levels, Venice Pier can get crowded, so try heading 50-100 yards north or south of the pier to find a quieter spot. It’s also a great place to take a surf lesson and enjoy the vibrant Venice atmosphere. Depending on the conditions shortboards or mid-lengths will work here.
Venice Breakwater, Venice
Just off Windward and below the famous Venice Beach boardwalk, Venice Breakwater is a top surf spot for newcomers. This beach break works on all swell directions and offers waves suitable for all skill levels. Be prepared for crowds, especially in the summer, and note that parking in Venice can be both expensive and hard to find. During big swells, currents can be strong, and the local scene can get intense. Depending on the conditions shortboards, mid-lengths, or longboards will work here.
Ocean Park, Santa Monica
Located off Ocean Park Blvd in Santa Monica, Ocean Park is a beach break that caters to both beginners and experienced surfers. The waves here break on most swell directions, and the numerous sandbars offer plenty of take-off spots. The early-morning crowd is common on weekdays, but the vibe is generally friendly and welcoming. Depending on the conditions shortboards, mid-lengths, or longboards will work here.
Sunset Beach, Los Angeles
If you’re tired of beach breaks and still consider yourself a beginner, Sunset Beach offers a long, mellow point break perfect for longboarding. Located where Sunset Blvd meets the Pacific Coast Highway, this spot is ideal for beginners and longboarders alike. Parking is along the highway and can get busy. Sunset Beach works best during summer on a south swell and with a lower tide. Depending on the conditions fishes, mid-lengths, or longboards will work here.
Topanga Beach, Los Angeles
Topanga Beach, an amazing right-hand reef point break, comes alive during summer with south swells and in winter on large northwest swells. Located off the CA-1 Pacific Coast Highway at Topanga Blvd, this spot is better suited for intermediate and advanced surfers. It’s a competitive surf spot with challenging waves, so bring your A-game. Many surfers wear booties here due to the rocky reef bottom. Depending on the conditions shortboards, fishes, mid-lengths, or longboards will work here.
Malibu Surfrider Beach, Malibu
Known as "Malibu" or "First Point," Surfrider Beach is a world-famous right-hand point break located just north of the Malibu Pier. It’s a classic LA surf spot that attracts surfers of all levels, offering three distinct breaks depending on conditions. Whether you’re longboarding at 1st point or shortboarding at 3rd, Malibu is a must-visit spot. Parking can be found along PCH or in the paid state park lot. Depending on the conditions shortboards, fishes, mid-lengths, or longboards will work here.
Zuma Beach, Malibu
Zuma Beach is a go-to spot for surf camps in the summer and barrel hunters in the winter. With plenty of room to spread out, Zuma’s long stretch of sand offers numerous sandbars and consistent waves. In winter, the waves can become powerful and challenging, making Zuma a destination for experienced surfers looking for a thrill. Depending on the conditions shortboards, fishes or mid-lengths will work here.
Zeros (Nicholas State Beach), Malibu
Zeros is one of Los Angeles’ few predominantly left-hand point breaks, making it a rare gem for goofy footers. Located off the CA-1 Pacific Coast Highway at Nicholas Canyon State Beach, Zeros works best during summer south swells. It’s a great spot to escape the crowds on non-forecasted days, offering excellent surf with minimal competition.
Leo Carrillo State Beach, Los Angeles
Leo Carrillo is perfect for camping, hiking, and surfing, offering a challenging lineup with a concentrated take-off zone around a massive rock. Surfing here can be competitive, but the waves are worth it. Free parking is available along the highway, with a paid lot at the campground across the street. Bring the longboard if you want to have fun.
County Line, Los Angeles
County Line offers a right-hand cobblestone reef break at the northern end of the beach, as well as 500 yards of beach break to the south. This spot is located on the border of Los Angeles and Ventura counties, directly across from Neptune’s Net. It’s a versatile location for surfers of all skill levels, but beginners should be cautious on larger swells due to strong currents. Depending on the conditions shortboards, fishes, mid-lengths, or longboards will work here.
