Surf: General: Oceanside, the northernmost coastal city in San Diego County, is easily one of the most livable surf communities in the county. Although sandbars move and shift along this stretch continually, there are consistent breaks on the north end at the harbor's north and south jetties, and on both sides of the pier. These spots will most often have a crew of surfers on them, but, on better days, the peaks up and down the beach will be just as good.

Oceanside is angled to receive southwest swells more readily than the beaches of central San Diego County, and, during southwest swells, it attracts surfers from all parts of SD. From the Interstate 5, take Mission Avenue west until you run into the beach. Take Pacific Street north to the harbor, or south for plenty of parking and easy access to the pier. Tides: medium Size: shoulder-high to 3 feet overhead Wind: E, NE, Santa Anas Swell: SSW, SW, W, WNW. Hurricane SSE swells mostly pass by. Combo of North and South Hemi swells are best. Bottom: Sand Paddling: Pretty average most days, but can be brutal on a strong south or northwest swell with current. Spot Rating: Punchy little beachbreak most days, can get exceptional on a good combo or tropical swell. Access: Exit Oceanside Harbor off the I5, cruise west to the beach. Crowds: Crowd Factor: Medium. Local Vibe: Proud but tolerant. Environment: Not great, toxic after a big rain. Hazards: Low tide suck-outs, rain runoff, bad longshore currents, boats getting clocked by sets at the harbor entrance. Season: January-December