Shitpipe surf guide

Shitpipe is an interesting surf spot located just off of LAX, known mainly for its novelty factor. The spot gets active during big winter swells, especially when a left-hand wave starts peeling off an old sewer pipe caisson that stretches about a mile out to sea. It's pretty visible from Vista del Mar, and the name kind of sets the vibe for what to expect here. The area around is not the most scenic, and the surf spot can be a bit hard to find if you're not aware of its location.

When the conditions align, Shitpipe offers decently lined-up lefts, especially in the right swell conditions. It can handle swell sizes from 6 feet (about 1.8 meters) up to 12 feet (approximately 3.7 meters), primarily with swells coming from the South-Southwest, Southwest, and West-Southwest. The best times to surf here are when the tide is low or low-to-mid, as it works best under these tidal conditions. The bottom composition includes a mix of sand and barnacles, and the surf type is mostly beach breaks. So, if you’re planning to paddle out, just know that it usually doesn’t start working until it’s a few feet overhead, meaning you'll need to put in some effort to get out there.

Shitpipe tends to not get too crowded, which is a nice bonus for those looking to score some waves without fighting for space. However, be prepared for some aggressive locals, especially if your surfing skills aren't up to par. It’s a spot suited for more experienced surfers, particularly as it attracts a certain crowd during the winter months (November to February). When you do decide to head out, keep an eye on the wind, as easterly directions work best. Shitpipe might not be the most polished spot, but if you’re in the area and the swell is right, it’s worth checking out.