For many, Southern California is synonymous with surfing. SoCal is home to many of the world’s most notable waves, from the iconic righthander at Malibu to the endless walls at Lowers and many more. Along San Diego County’s 70 miles of surf-rich coastline, Oceanside stands out as the most consistent stretch of coast. Oceanside is the northernmost coastal town in San Diego County and has developed a reputation as a hub of core surfing that’s produced some of the world’s best surfers and shapers. If you’re planning to visit Oceanside, pack your board bag and continue reading below for The Green Room Guide to Surfing in Oceanside, California.

Everything You Need to Know About Surfing in Oceanside

Oceanside is home to a four-mile coastline that stretches from the river mouth that separates North Carlsbad and South Oceanside to the fences of Camp Pendleton. Within those four miles are some of the most consistent sandbars in all of San Diego County. While the sandbars tend to shift and the surf is always changing, there is almost always reliable surf at the harbor’s north and south jetties and on either side of the pier. Unlike the rest of San Diego County, Oceanside sits at an opportune angle to receive southwest swells, which makes it a convenient south swell destination for surfers from the greater San Diego Area. Oceanside’s best breaks are just a stone’s throw from our boutique Oceanside hotel. If you’re coming into town to surf on I-5, take Mission Ave West, and you’ll run straight into the beach. Take Pacific Street north to the harbor or south to find parking and access the pier.

Oceanside Pier

Some of the most trustworthy sandbars in all of San Diego County can be found on either side of the Oceanside Pier. The pier as we know it today was built in 1987 and has served as a reliable surf break for almost as long. While many surfers prefer the harbor or other lesser-known sandbars, the pier attracts a fair number of surfers and tourist observers during a swell. If you’re new to surfing or still getting comfortable paddling into waves on your own, sit further away from the pier. The north side of the pier is typically more beginner-friendly and has a more mellow crowd, while the south side can get hollow and is favored by advanced surfers.

Oceanside Harbor

Oceanside Harbor’s larger beach allows surfers to spread out in the lineup which lessens the impact of the crowds. There are waves on both the north and south end of the main jetty. The waves breaking off the main jetty are typically the best, but surf can be found up and down the beach. While the harbor can be beginner-friendly during smaller swells, the waves breaking off the jetties are typically surfed by intermediate and advanced surfers.

Tyson Street

South of the pier, the sand bar at Tyson Steet produces a fun wave. Look for the big sign and long beach staircase with a playground at the bottom. Tyson Street is about 10 minutes from our hotel.

Wisconsin Ave

Further south, the sandbanks near Wisconsin Street are frequented by locals and visitors alike. This wave works best from mid to high tide and can get fairly steep and hollow.

Buccaneer Beach

Buccaneer Beach is just up the road from the Green Room and is the perfect mellow beach break for new surfers. There’s a sand bottom a-frame that breaks right in front of Buccaneer Café and works best around mid to high tide. Spend the day lounging at the beach, catch a few waves, and grab breakfast at the Café for the perfect post-surf pick-me-up.

Whether you’re a lifelong surfer or just starting out, the Green Room Hotel has everything you need to make the most of your time surfing in Oceanside. Pack your boards and store them in our spacious rooms or grab a complimentary foam board and beach cruiser. If you’re dreaming about surfing in Oceanside, book your stay at the Green Room.