Surfing in South Bay
Surfing guide to South Bay, Los Angeles County, California (South), California, USA
South Bay has 15 surf spots . Go explore!
Overview of surfing in South Bay
The South Bay of Los Angeles County stretches from El Segundo through Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, Redondo Beach, and down toward Palos Verdes, forming a vital part of the city of Los Angeles. While it doesn’t always get the same global hype as Malibu or Orange County, the South Bay is one of the most consistent, accessible, and user-friendly surf regions in Southern California. The region has a rich history in the world of surf culture, with its waves and pioneers helping to shape the broader surfing community.
Defined mostly by sandy beach breaks, piers, and a handful of reef and point setups, South Bay surfing is all about timing, tides, and sandbars. The iconic cliffs of Palos Verdes add dramatic beauty and influence to the region’s geography. When the banks are right and the swell lines up, these beaches can deliver fast, punchy peaks, hollow sections, and surprisingly high-quality sessions — especially during winter west swells and summer south swell pulses.
The surf culture here is laid-back but deeply ingrained. Locals surf before work, during lunch breaks, and at sunset. The strong sense of surf communities defines the South Bay, fostering camaraderie and shared traditions among surfers. The vibe is more everyday surf life than destination surfing. You’ll see groms learning, longboarders cruising, fitness-focused shortboarders, and lifelong locals who’ve surfed the same stretch of beach for decades.
South Bay surf is approachable, social, and consistent. It’s not about perfection every day — it’s about knowing when and where to paddle out and enjoying the rhythm of coastal Southern California life, as locals and visitors spend their time immersed in the vibrant surf scene.
Surf Regions in the South Bay
El Segundo & Dockweiler Area
Exposed beach breaks influenced by jetties and shifting sandbars. This surf zone is known for its consistent waves, making it a reliable spot for surfers throughout the year.
Tip: Always check the latest surf report before heading out to ensure optimal and safe conditions.
Manhattan Beach Zone
Pier-adjacent peaks with reliable shape and strong local presence, the Manhattan Beach Pier is located at the heart of Manhattan Beach, making it a central spot for surfers.
At 26th Street, you’ll find good waves that are consistent and enjoyable, suitable for a range of skill levels, though intermediate to advanced surfers will get the most out of the conditions here.
Hermosa Beach Stretch
Consistent beachbreak surf with wide-open peaks and easy access, Hermosa Pier is located at the heart of Hermosa Beach, making it a central spot for local surfers.
At 22nd Street Hermosa, paddling out to the peaks is a key part of the experience, as surfers position themselves to catch the best waves.
Redondo Beach & King Harbor
More sheltered beaches with softer waves and beginner-friendly options. Topaz Street, also known as Burnout Beach, is a favorite spot not only for surfers but also for swimming, making it a hub for various water activities. These beaches are especially popular with tourists during the summer months, contributing to a lively and vibrant atmosphere.
Palos Verdes Peninsula (South Bay Edge)
Rocky points and reefs offering a different wave style from the sand beaches, set against the dramatic cliffs of Palos Verdes.
Lunada Bay and Indicators are two of the most well-known breaks on the peninsula. These spots are best suited for advanced riders, as the waves here can be powerful and challenging, especially during winter swells. The rugged coastline and cliffs not only create unique surf conditions but also provide a stunning backdrop for those watching from above.
Getting there
Getting There and Access
South Bay beaches are easily accessed via:
- LAX
- Pacific Coast Highway
- I-405 and I-105
Many access points are located near these major highways and transit routes, making it convenient for visitors to reach the surf spots.
Most beaches have public parking lots, metered street parking, or residential zones with restrictions. Biking is popular between breaks, especially in Manhattan and Hermosa.
Crowds
Manhattan Beach Pier: heavy
Hermosa Pier: moderate–heavy
Redondo: moderate
El Segundo: light–moderate
Palos Verdes: light–moderate
Crowds peak in summer and during clean swell events. Crowds also increase with tourists during peak seasons.
Lineup Lowdown
South Bay lineups are generally friendly but busy:
- Respect priority near piers
- Don’t paddle straight into the peak
- Beginners should avoid pier takeoff zones
- Longboarders and shortboarders often split peaks
- Watch for surfers drifting with currents
- Be aware of surf schools
- When you hit the waves, be careful not to hit other surfers
Good awareness goes a long way here.
Surf seasons and when to go
The best time of the year to surf in South Bay
Surf Seasons and When to Go
Summer (June–September)
South swell season
Fun, playful waves
Excellent for longboarding
Crowded beaches, especially as the surf zone fills up with tourists during summer
Best early mornings
Autumn (October–November)
Cleaner winds
Combo swells
Less crowd pressure
Highly underrated season compared to the rest of the surf year, as autumn often brings the best combination of conditions in the South Bay.
Winter (December–February)
West and northwest swells
More power and shape
Hollow beachbreak peaks
Colder water but better surf
During winter, north swells can also reach the South Bay, bringing occasional powerful surf similar to what is seen at northern beaches like Malibu and Zuma Beach.
Spring (March–May)
Windy transitions
Inconsistent but fun windows
Best overall: Winter
Best for beginners: Summer
Best balance: Autumn
Water Temperatures and Weather
Summer: 18–21°C
Winter: 13–16°C
Wetsuits:
Summer: 2/2 or 3/2
Winter: 3/2 or 4/3
Weather is mild year-round with frequent sunshine.
Can’t-Miss Surf Spots
El Segundo & Dockweiler
Dockweiler State Beach
A long, open beach with multiple peaks that handle west swell well. Offers punchy beachbreak waves with plenty of room to spread out. El Porto, a well-known surf spot in nearby Manhattan Beach, is also popular for its consistent waves and vibrant local surf culture.
El Segundo Jetty
Jetty-influenced peaks that can offer better shape and occasional hollow sections on the right tide. Before heading out, check the latest surf report to ensure optimal wave and weather conditions.
Manhattan Beach
Manhattan Beach Pier
One of the most consistent surf zones in the South Bay. Fast, punchy peaks form on both sides of the pier, especially during winter swells. Crowded but reliable. The pier is best suited for intermediate to advanced skill levels due to the wave power and crowd factor.
26th Street
A popular sandbar zone with rippable peaks when the banks are good. Slightly less chaotic than the pier. 26th Street is more beginner-friendly, but still offers fun waves for all skill levels. Fish surfboards are especially popular here, thanks to their versatility and performance in the varied beach break conditions.
Hermosa Beach
Hermosa Pier
A classic South Bay surf spot with consistent peaks and a strong local crowd. The surf zone here can shift depending on swell direction and tide, so checking conditions before heading out is key. Paddling out to the peak can be challenging on bigger days, especially when the surf zone is more active. Best on mid tide with west or south swell.
22nd Street Hermosa
Wide-open peaks and better spacing than the pier. Ideal for intermediate surfers and longboarders.
Redondo Beach
Topaz Street
A softer wave with mellow peaks, perfect for beginners and cruisy sessions. Handles small summer swell well. Swimming is also popular along the shore, making it a favorite spot for both surfers and beachgoers.
Burnout Beach
Protected and gentle, offering small, forgiving waves. Popular with learners and surf schools. The shoreline here is ideal for swimming and enjoying safe water activities.
Palos Verdes Peninsula
Lunada Bay
A famous right-hand point and reef break set against the dramatic cliffs of Palos Verdes, offering long walls and powerful sections. Best suited for advanced riders only, with strong local presence.
Indicators
A rocky reef break near the cliffs that produces fast, hollow waves on west swell. This spot is ideal for advanced riders, requiring confidence and reef awareness.
Haggerty’s
A fun reef setup with shorter rides and less crowd pressure. Best on mid tide with clean swell.
The north side of the peninsula receives different swell exposure, creating unique surf conditions compared to other areas.
South Bay surf travel guide
Find trips that fit a flexible lifestyle
Learning to Surf in the South Bay
South Bay is one of the best areas in LA for beginners.
Best beginner spots:
- Burnout Beach
- Topaz Street
- Dockweiler on small days
- Hermosa Beach away from the pier
Lessons: AU$70–150
Board rentals: AU$30–60/day
Summer mornings offer ideal learning conditions.
Safety and Etiquette
- Watch for rip currents
- Avoid surfing after heavy rain
- Pier pilings create hazards
- Be mindful of swimmers and surf schools
- Respect local surfers at reef breaks
- Secure valuables in cars
- Strong swimming skills are essential for surf safety and can help in rescue situations or avoiding hazards in the water.
Most risks are manageable with awareness.
Surf and Yoga Retreats
While not a retreat hub, South Bay offers:
- Surf coaching programs
- Yoga studios near the beach
- Fitness-focused surf training
- Breathwork and mobility classes
Many surfers train here year-round.
Accommodation Options for Surfers
Budget hotels: AU$120–180
Mid-range hotels: AU$200–350
Short-term rentals: AU$250–600
Luxury beachfront stays: AU$600+
Hermosa and Manhattan Beach are the most surf-centric bases.
Comparison to Other Surf Destinations
South Bay vs Malibu:
- More consistent
- Shorter rides
- Better for beginners
South Bay vs Orange County:
- Less powerful
- More beachbreak-focused
- Easier access
South Bay vs Santa Monica:
- Better sandbars
- More surf-focused culture
Compared to other iconic surf destinations in America, such as San Diego and Venice Beach, South Bay stands out for its reliable waves and welcoming atmosphere. San Diego is known for its rich surfing history and diverse breaks, while Venice Beach is famous for its vibrant surf culture and historical significance in Los Angeles County. South Bay surfing is about consistency and accessibility.
Expenses (AUD)
Accommodation: AU$120–600
Meals: AU$15–30
Board rental: AU$30–60
Parking: AU$5–25/day
Typical Southern California pricing.
Cultural Notes
Expect:
- Fit, active beach culture
- Early-morning surf routines
- Bike paths packed with surfers
- Coffee shops opening at dawn
- Family-friendly vibes
- Strong local pride
- Vibrant communities of South Bay surfers who have shaped the area’s surf culture and continue to influence local traditions
Surfing is woven into daily life here.
Cell Coverage & Wi-Fi
Excellent everywhere
Strong 5G coverage
Wi-Fi widely available
Ideal for remote work surfers
Final Thoughts
The South Bay of Los Angeles may not have the legendary pointbreaks of Malibu or the high-performance pedigree of Orange County, but it delivers something just as valuable: consistency, accessibility, and an authentic surf lifestyle built around everyday ocean time. Alongside other iconic LA surf spots like Venice, the South Bay holds its own unique place in the region’s surf culture.
From the punchy peaks of Manhattan Beach to the mellow rollers of Redondo and the powerful reefs of Palos Verdes, South Bay surfing offers waves for every level in one of the most liveable coastal regions in California. George Freeth, who was said to walk on water during his early surf demonstrations, left a lasting impact on local surf history and helped shape the area’s reputation. It’s not about chasing perfection — it’s about surfing often, staying fit, and enjoying the rhythm of the Pacific right outside your door.
While Malibu and the rest of the surf world may get much of the attention, the South Bay’s reliable, sunny, and endlessly surfable coastline is classic Southern California at its best.
