Where to Surf This Winter in San Diego County: A Surf Travel Guide
Winter in San Diego County brings some of the best waves of the year, making it the perfect time for a California surf trip. Whether you're a lifelong surfer or new to the sport, the region's many reliable waves offer something for everyone. From the mellow, beginner-friendly spots in Oceanside to the more challenging reefs and point breaks further south, winter is the time to explore all San Diego County offers. This guide will help you make the most of your winter California surf trip, highlighting the best surf spots, what to expect from the season, and how to get ready.
The Magic of Winter
San Diego's winter surf season is driven by long-period northwest swells, which bring powerful, consistent waves from the North Pacific. These swells typically roll between November and February, providing ideal conditions for surfers. While water temperatures dip into the 50s during the winter, 4/3 wetsuits are usually sufficient to stay comfortable—hoods and booties are rarely necessary unless you're venturing further north. The region's best breaks light up in winter, drawing surfers from all over. Whether you're looking to score long rides or find the occasional tube, winter provides prime opportunities for all skill levels. But before you paddle out, here's where you should focus your efforts:
Best Winter Surf Spots in San Diego County
Oceanside
Oceanside is arguably one of the best winter surf destinations in the county. Known for its consistency year-round, Oceanside is an ideal spot for surfers looking to enjoy both small, playful waves and larger, more powerful ones. The key surf breaks here include the Oceanside Pier and Oceanside Harbor, where you'll find reliable sandbars catering to every surfer level. Whether you're catching the mellow lefts off the pier or navigating the punchy waves around the harbor jetties, Oceanside offers a variety of conditions perfect for a winter surf session.
For those staying at the Green Room Hotel, Oceanside's unique positioning between two prime surf spots—Oceanside and Carlsbad—gives you access to multiple breaks. Whether you're heading to Tamarack Beach or the Ponto Jetties in Carlsbad, you'll find plenty of options to suit your skill level.
La Jolla
Just south of Oceanside, La Jolla offers some of the region's most famous and diverse surf spots. Windansea Reef and Blacks Beach are legendary for their powerful, hollow waves. They are ideal for more experienced surfers if you're looking for something more accessible; La Jolla Shores offers more mellow, beginner-friendly waves with some long, fun rides.
Encinitas: A Surf Town with Options for Everyone
Encinitas, located a bit further south, is a charming coastal town known for its variety of surf breaks. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, you'll find something to suit your skill level. Swamis is famous for its mellow lefts, while Seaside Reef and Grandview provide more punch.
San Diego Proper
While most of San Diego County's best waves lie north of the city, Mission Beach, Pacific Beach, and Coronado are still worth checking out, particularly if you're staying near the city. These breaks typically see more wind and less consistency than their northern counterparts, but on the right day, they can offer fun waves for all levels. Mission Beach's jetties often provide some reliable surf, and Coronado's wide sandy beaches mean you can usually find something on even less-than-ideal days.
What to Expect This Winter Season
Winter surf in San Diego is all about those north swells, but they can vary in size and consistency. You'll ride your standard shortboard most days, but on bigger days, you'll want to bring a step-up board to handle the larger waves. The great thing about San Diego's winter surf is the wide range of options, from sheltered beach breaks to exposed reefs. And because the region is home to a mix of surf spots, you'll always be able to find a place to paddle out, even when conditions are a little more challenging.
Preparing for Winter Surf in San Diego
Wetsuits and Gear
The water temperatures in San Diego during winter are typically in the mid-50s, so a 4/3 wetsuit will keep you comfortable for most sessions. If you're heading further north, a hood and booties might come in handy, but for the most part, the conditions are manageable with standard winter gear. Be sure to pack your wax, leash, and any other essentials—surf shops in the area, like Surf Ride in Oceanside, will have everything you need in case you forget something.
Surfboards
If you're traveling light, surfboard rentals are readily available, or you can even grab one of the complimentary boards provided by the Green Room Hotel on your way to the beach.
Winter in San Diego is one of the best times to surf, with fun swells, fewer crowds, and consistent waves lighting up the coastline. Whether you plan to hit the classic spots in Oceanside, La Jolla, or Encinitas or take a chance on the city's breaks, you'll find something to suit your skill level. Our boutique Oceanside hotel is the perfect home base for your winter surf trip, offering easy access to some of the most consistent and diverse waves in San Diego County. Book your stay today, grab your board, and make the most of winter surf season in Southern California.