Surf: General: A quick and powerful escape from San Diego, Baja Malibu ranks up there as one of Baja's premier waves and can be world-class when everything aligns. This long stretch of beach loves a solid, long-period NW swell or combination of NW and S/SW swell. And thanks to the offshore bathymetry, those long winter lines get broken up and funnel in as juicy mega-peaks. Additionally, when offshore wind blows, Baja Malibu can turn into an anomaly of apexes compared to nearby Baja breaks. However, just as easily, onshore winds can shred the surf to uselessness. Tides: Mid. Size: Head high-double overhead Wind: ESE, E, ENE, NE Swell: NW, WNW, SW, SSW. But NW + SSW combo is best. Bottom: Sand. Paddling: Medium usually, but can be heavy if you get caught in the impact zone on big days. Spot Rating: Good to very good when all the elements line up. Access: Easy. Just ask someone nearby about the best/safest parking spot. Crowds: Crowd Factor: Can get somewhat intense if the surf is firing, but there's plenty of room. Local Vibe: Can get very intense -- the most aggressive surfers being Americans that own or are renting homes in Baja Malibu. Environment: Quite dirty after a rain. Lots of raw sewage problems coming from a variety of sources. Hazards: Thick lips = broken boards. Petty theft. Season: October-January is best, although waves can be fun year-round.