Topanga State Beach is a long right pointbreak situated at the base of Topanga Canyon, just off the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). It's a popular spot for surfers looking to catch some waves, but don't expect it to have the same perfection as Malibu. The beach can get crowded due to its proximity to downtown Los Angeles. When you head there, you’ll find a mix of locals and visitors, all trying to score some rides. Parking is available in a lot that overlooks the beach, but be prepared to pay for it.
The surf at Topanga can be decent, especially when there’s a solid west swell pushing in. Typically, it handles wave sizes from about 3 feet (1 meter) to 12 feet (3.7 meters). The best conditions are found during a strong west swell and on mid to low tides, with optimal wind coming from the north. The waves break over a bottom of cobblestones and sand, and while it can provide good sections, it does come with its share of challenges, making it more suited for intermediate surfers. The main wave can accommodate double-overhead, and there's also the outer section known as Boomers, which is shorter but packs a bit more power.
While Topanga can offer some fun rides, keep in mind that it often gets crowded, so navigating through the surfers can be part of the challenge. It's mostly a right-handed wave, making it favorable for those riding shortboards, fish, funboards, longboards, and even bodyboards. The best times to hit the waves are during the autumn and winter months, from September to February, when swells are more consistent.