Surfing is the favourite sport of locals in LA. So take a surfboard and feel the California waves. Beginners often start with Santa Monica. The waves are not too big and there are many surfing schools.
Zuma Beach offers a large number of peak waves for everyone. Known for its crystal clear waters, Zuma is an ideal place for any level surfer. Malibu is an icon of surfing with its point-breaks and relaxed atmosphere, 30 km of sand and waves to ride. A true paradise for longboarders.
Topanga and Venice Beach are classic California surf spots, however, also crowded. Venice Beach has a 4-km boardwalk filled with locals and tourists, and there might even be potential sponsors watching.
Manhattan Beach is an excellent choice for experienced surfers. If you are looking for a big wave in Los Angeles, then driving 3-meter waves is what you need. Surfing in Los Angeles wouldn't be complete without a session at Redondo Beach—the place where surfing competes with beach volleyball. Hermosa Beach also offers nice opportunities. A statue of a surfer next to the pier can be a source of inspiration.
The best swell comes during the colder season, namely fall and winter (September–February). As to the water temperature, it's fairly cold all year round.
Practical info
What is the prime surfing season in Los Angeles?
The period from September to February is usually the best time for surfers to visit Los Angeles. During this time, the waves become more robust due to the peak of the ocean swell. Despite the water temperature remains cold throughout the year, winter waves at LA give the best conditions for professional surfers and those wanting to test their limits. Show more
Which beaches are best for beginners learning to surf in Los Angeles?
Santa Monica Beach and Zuma Beach are ideal sites for beginner surfers in LA. Santa Monica Beach has tiny waves, and many surf schools around provide lessons. Zuma Beach has a larger and varied range of waves suitable for all levels. Venice Beach and Topanga Beach are also great options for beginners to learn surfing in LA. Show more
Which surfing spot is the most famous in Los Angeles?
Malibu is the renowned surfing spot in LA, featuring a coastline of more than 30 km. Surfers worldwide come to Malibu because of its legendary point-breaks, appreciated by longboarders. The relaxing atmosphere, coupled with waves' long rides, makes this beach a surfer's paradise, inspiring many to flock to Malibu to experience the waves first-hand. Show more
When can surfers find the best waves in Los Angeles?
Los Angeles provides the best wave conditions during September through February, when the ocean swell is optimal, giving more magnificent and powerful waves. Manhattan Beach is an excellent option for advanced surfers who looking for immense waves ranging to 3 meters in height, while the fall season is the best season to witness these waves' peak performance. Show more
Which beach is renowned as a destination for surfing competitions in Los Angeles?
Redondo Beach is an epitome of beach locations for surfing competitions in LA. It is a frequent host to various surf events, with fans and surfers worldwide taking part in most of these festivities. Hermosa Beach also has a bustling beach environment and hosts many surfing competitions recognized by many surfers worldwide, honored with a statue of a surfer near the pier. Show more
