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Camp Pendleton is a surf spot located near Virginia Beach, nestled next to a military training base. This area offers a bit of a break from the busy surf scene of nearby spots like 1st Street Jetty and Croatan, but it can still get crowded, especially close to the borders of those spots. The beach break here typically handles southeast and northeast swells quite well, but it’s worth noting that the reliability can be hit or miss compared to its neighbors. There are some restrictions on access, so it’s important to be aware of the local rules.
The surf at Camp Pendleton can be pretty decent, with waves that range from chest high (about 1 meter) to overhead (2.5 meters). It works best with swells from the southeast and northeast, and when conditions align – like having low tide and offshore winds – you might even catch some barrels. The waves tend to break over sand, providing both lefts and rights, making it suitable for all skill levels from beginners to intermediates. However, during hurricane season or when bigger swells roll in, paddling out can become a bit more challenging. The best wind direction for the surf here is from the southwest and west-southwest, while the ideal tides are low to mid.
As for the local vibe, it’s pretty chill with minimal crowds directly on the base, but expect more surfers as you approach Croatan. Camp Pendleton sees its best surf conditions mainly during the autumn, during tropical cyclones, and nor’easters in the late fall and winter. Whether you're riding a shortboard, fish, or longboard, there’s enough variety in the waves to keep things interesting. Just keep an eye out for amphibious vehicles and be respectful of the restricted areas around the military base.