South Del Mar is a surf spot located just north of Torrey Pines State Beach. It’s a decent reef break that offers surfers a chance to catch some waves most of the time. It’s a bit of a walk to get there, but it’s worth it for a mellow session away from the more crowded spots.

This break usually handles small to medium-sized swells, ranging from about 1 ft (0.3 m) to 4 ft (1.2 m). It works well with swells coming from the south and northwest. The waves typically break right over a combination of rock ledge and sand, giving you a playful ride. Most of the time, the wind is best coming from the east, and the conditions can be fun during low, mid, or high tide. Just keep in mind that the waves can be a bit mushy at times, so they might not be super steep, but they can still be fun to ride.

Since this is a reef break, be aware of the rocks below—surfing with a little caution is always a good call. It’s a solid spot for surfers looking for a variety of conditions without too many people around, making it a great place to practice and enjoy the ocean.