Redondo Beach
Last Updated on May 02, 2025
Yes, you can surf in Santa Monica! Known for its iconic beaches and laid-back vibe, Santa Monica offers great conditions for surfers of all levels. The waves are typically small to moderate, making it a perfect spot for beginners to learn, but there are also some larger swells that more experienced surfers can enjoy. The beach is home to surf schools, rentals, and plenty of space to paddle out, especially near the Santa Monica Pier and further down the coastline. The scenic backdrop, with the pier and mountains in the distance, adds to the appeal, making it not only a great place to surf but also to enjoy the quintessential Southern California beach experience.
Ocean Park is a popular surfing spot in Santa Monica, located off of Ocean Park Blvd. Once a part of the nautical-themed amusement park at the end of the pier, it is now known for its great surfing scene. The beach break makes it an ideal spot for both beginners and experienced surfers, with the waves breaking on most swell directions and offering plenty of take-off spots. However, due to its popularity, the beach can often get crowded, especially on weekends. Despite the crowds, Ocean Park is a fun and surfable spot with a point break. The numerous sandbars and different swell directions make it a versatile spot to surf. If you're looking to catch some waves without the crowds, it's best to come out early in the morning, especially on weekdays when there's usually an early-morning crowd. Overall, Ocean Park is a great spot for surfing and offers a unique blend of surf culture and California history.
The Santa Monica Pier is a great option for surfers of all skill levels. With a mushy sandbar peak, depending on the swell, all sorts of waves may make an appearance here. Definitely surf this spot early in the morning before the beach crowds make it. This sand-bottom spot is consistent and best to surf during a WSW swell, NE winds and is best during low tide.
Bay Street is an extremely welcoming spot to surf in Santa Monica when it comes to the people and the parking. This spot is great for all types of surfers including long boarders, short boarders, body boarders, and more. Mid-tide pushing high is the best for surfing here because waves can get mushy, so a little push is nice. With its friendly atmosphere and diverse wave options, Bay Street provides an enjoyable surfing experience for surfers of all skill levels.
If you are looking for a spot with less of a crowd, Will Rogers State Beach is for you. Although it is not as consistent as other spots, this one will have fewer people surfing here even when it gets good. For this sand-bottom spot, the best swell direction is SW whereas the best wind direction is NE. With its quieter atmosphere and potential for uncrowded waves, Will Rogers State Beach offers a peaceful surfing experience amidst the beauty of Santa Monica.
Visitors to Santa Monica often hear the sparkling Pacific calling to them once they take in the stunning ocean views. Seeing the Santa Monica Pier glittering in the distance while the light offshore winds tickle your skin is enough to make anyone want to try their hand at a surfing experience in Santa Monica.
Named the official state sport in 2018, Santa Monica surf culture has been around forever, and surfing has long been an iconic part of the California lifestyle. Catch waves and surfing events throughout the year and be sure to join locals every May for Santa Monica’s iconic Pier 360 event, showcasing classic surfing competitions and friendly TANDM surf races.
Santa Monica’s 3.5-mile stretch of beach uniquely situated just steps from many of the city’s hotels makes it an easy and accessible surfing spot for visitors. Newbies and advanced enthusiasts will find convenient, professionally run surf schools offering surf lessons in Santa Monica with an expert surfing instructor standing by to further their skills.
With many surf spots within a short walk, some a short drive, you won’t run out of options. If one break is not looking well, drive to one of the other spots. You are bound to at least find one spot that is breaking if nowhere else is, which makes Santa Monica a reliable surfing destination. The beautiful blue water and skies make these beaches irresistible. The fall is considered the best time of the year to go surfing wave-wise, although summer is a popular time because of the sunny weather. You won’t get as many crowds during the fall though because school is in session and people aren’t usually taking vacations that time of the year. The fall SW and WNW swells can end up pretty fun!
Surf culture is exactly as you may imagine it here in southern California. Yes, you cannot outrun the grump old locals who think they own the place, but there are also many friendly faces who will welcome visitors with open arms. The local people here are very close to each other and there are generational relationships that have thrived for a long time. Be nice and respectful and you will be more than welcomed and may make some new connections. Overall, Santa Monica is very beginner-friendly as well, there are multiple surf lesson businesses and beginners are encouraged to learn the craft of surfing.
Southern California's yearly average water temperature is usually around 62°F, with winter temperatures ranging from approximately 55°F to 60°F, and summer temperatures ranging from roughly 60°F to 65°F.
Winter is generally the peak season for swells, providing the largest and most consistent waves in many surfing spots. However, decent swells also occur during the shoulder seasons of fall and spring.
Surfing on Santa Monica Beach is an experience not to be missed. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced surfer, the waves and relaxed atmosphere here make it an ideal spot to catch some waves and enjoy the California lifestyle. So, grab your board and wetsuit and head out to the beach for an unforgettable day on the water.