Towards the Northern border of San Diego County in Southern California is Trestles. Named after the train tracks that run next to the beach, this collection of cobblestone reef breaks is famous worldwide, specifically the break called Lowers. There is a collection of breaks that are included in the designation of Trestles : Churches, Middles, Lowers, and Uppers. This will focus on Lowers, the highest quality and most well known. Lowers is known for it’s skatepark-like consistent perfection that serves up sections begging to be carved into. It is both a left and right, although the right is the slightly longer of the two, breaking for up to 150 meters. Lowers has been the home to WCT competitions over the years, its ramps and walls offer a perfect showcase for cutting edge high-performance surfing. Many pros call this their home break, including the likes of Kolohe Andino, Jordy Smith, Filipe Toledo, Griffin Colapinto, and many many more (but don’t ask for autographs in the water). It’s a long walk from the parking areas through the protected wetlands to the break, many locals will be riding an assortment of wheeled vehicles.
What are the best surf conditions for Trestles?
Trestles starts getting good around waist high and holds up to about double overhead. A shortboard is best here, although an alternative shape wouldn’t be out of order. Beginners should head to Churches or Uppers, Lowers is best suited to intermediate, advanced, and pro surfers. The surf here is quite consistent (8/10) but the crowds and competition is legendary here (10/10). The best winds are offshore from the Northeast. Lowers loves a South, Southwest, or West swell. It can be good on any tide.
We recommend wearing a 3/2 wetsuit in the summer when the water temperatures rise to 20 degrees. In the winter you could upgrade to a 4/3 when the water temps drop to 15 degrees. See the temperature chart below for more data on this.
