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San Onofre State Beach

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Ideal surf conditions at San Onofre State Beach

Swell window
S, W
Swell size
1ft - 1ft
Swell breaks over
Boulders, Sand
Wave types
Reef
Wave directions
Left, Right
Wind window
NE
Best tides at
Low, Mid, High
Skill Level
Beginner

San Onofre State Beach surf guide

San Onofre State Beach is a popular surf spot located in Southern California, known for its laid-back atmosphere and friendly vibe. This beach has a rich surfing history, being one of the early sites for surfing contests in California. It's a family-friendly beach where beginners can feel comfortable, and the mellow environment makes it a great place to hang out.

The surf here features a famous, mushy longboard wave that is ideal for beginners. You can catch waves that break over boulders and sandy bottoms, with swells mainly coming from the south and west. The spot can handle swell sizes starting at around 1 ft (0.3 meters) and has both left and right waves. Old Man's is known as the premier area, especially during the summer, when it works best at lower tides. Just a bit further north is The Point, which generally has right-hand waves but can serve up some decent lefts too. It’s worth noting that the best winds blow from the northeast, and the surf works across low, mid, and high tides.

Getting to San Onofre is straightforward, with the park entrance accessible from Basilone Road. However, just a heads up: in the summer and on weekends, parking can get pretty crowded right at sunrise. If you plan to surf here regularly, consider asking about a yearly pass that allows access to both San Onofre and nearby Trails.