Beacons, located in Leucadia, is a well-known surf spot that attracts surfers of all skill levels. It's positioned along the stunning coastline of San Diego County and provides a relaxed vibe. The main access point is a narrow blufftop lot on Neptune Avenue, making it convenient for surfers looking to hit the waves. The beach is often quite crowded, especially during peak surf times, so be prepared to share the lineup with a number of other surfers.
The best waves here typically break over a mix of boulders and sand, creating options for both lefts and rights. Swells coming from the south and northwest usually work well, with the spot handling swell sizes of around 1 to 2 feet (0.3 to 0.6 meters) overhead. You’ll want to aim for a lower tide with smaller swells or a higher tide with larger swells for better conditions. This spot is generally friendly for beginners, but with its layout and crowds, just be mindful of sharing the waves.
Aside from the main peak close to the bluff trail, be on the lookout for the sandbars that lead up to Bamboos. This area offers a fun right-hand reef/sandbar combo right in front of the bamboo patch. For optimal surfing, east winds are preferred at this spot, helping to clean up the waves. Just remember that while the scene can be exciting, it can also get pretty busy, so keep your surfer etiquette in check.