Surf Breaks

San Diego [1] boasts plenty of classic southern California surfing. For the coolest local breaks, you’ll have to consult the coolest locals.

But even the more popular spots offer reliable breaks. In La Jolla [2], Black’s Beach [3] is both a local’s favorite and visitor’s joy. Modest surfers beware: Black’s also operates as a nude beach.

Del Mar City Beach [4] (15th St. and Coast Blvd. to the Rivermouth, Del Mar), in addition to being a great sandy spot to hang out, offers fine beginning and intermediate waves.

Mission Beach has a good break as well as lifeguards, restroom facilities, and about a zillion tourists and sun worshippers in the summertime.

If you’re serious about surfing, check out Windansea Beach (6800 Neptune Pl.), which has a heavy shore break and a rockier coastline than most of San Diego [1]—and therefore fewer sunbathers and swimmers hanging out here. You will find dense crowds of fellow surfers, so this isn’t the best spot for beginners to try out their boards.

On the other hand, the small, consistent waves at La Jolla Shores (8200 Camino del Oro, La Jolla) bore the hardcore masters, but are perfect for novice surfers. Just stick within the lifeguard-designated surfing areas to avoid the swimmers and scuba divers sharing the water here.