Surfing in Orange County - South
Surfing guide to Orange County - South, Orange County, California (South), California, USA
Orange County - South has 16 surf spots . Go explore!
Overview of surfing in Orange County - South
South Orange County is one of the most iconic and wave-rich surf regions in the world. Stretching roughly from Newport Beach south through Laguna Beach, Dana Point, San Clemente, and ending near San Onofre, this coastline represents the heart of Southern California surf culture. As part of SoCal, the region is renowned for its diverse surf spots and strong regional identity. It’s a region defined by perfect pointbreaks, cobblestone reefs, clean sandbars, historic lineups, and a surf lifestyle that has shaped global surfing for decades.
This part of Orange County benefits from a unique coastal orientation that allows it to receive a wide range of swell directions. The typical orange county surf experience is shaped by a combination of beachbreaks, pointbreaks, and reefs, giving county surf its distinct character and variety. South swells in summer light up the points, wrapping beautifully into cobblestone reefs and producing long, mechanical rights. North and west swells in winter bring punchy beach breaks and heavier reef setups. Huntington Beach, just to the north, stands out as a legendary surf spot in the broader region. Compared to Ventura, which often has more consistent winter surf, and San Diego County, known for its own iconic breaks, South Orange County offers a unique blend of conditions. Combined with relatively consistent offshore winds and easy access, South OC offers some of the most reliable and user-friendly surf in California. The sun and wind are key factors in shaping the local surf experience, with sunny days and breezy conditions influencing wave quality. Breakwater structures, such as those near Dana Point, have also impacted certain surf spots by altering wave formation and beach accessibility. The details of South Orange County surf—like the mix of water temperature, swell direction, and local geography—set it apart from other regions.
The culture here is deeply rooted and fiercely proud. Surfing isn’t a hobby — it’s part of everyday life. Locals possess deep knowledge of the breaks and often guard their favorite spots, making understanding the nuances of each lineup essential. Dawn patrols are crowded but ritualistic, surf shops feel like community hubs, and lineups range from friendly longboard cruisers to hyper-competitive shortboarders. The region features a combination of pointbreaks, reefs, and sandbars, offering a diverse surf experience. It’s polished, high-level, and historic, but still full of soul if you approach it with respect.
South Orange County is not a secret, and it’s not empty — but few places on Earth offer such a high concentration of quality waves packed into such a small stretch of coastline.
Surf Regions in South Orange County
Newport Beach (Southern Section)
Sandbar-driven beach breaks with punch, power, and consistency. Newport Beach is famous for its jetties, which play a major role in shaping wave formation and influencing local surf conditions. Surfers often try to catch the best peaks here, but it can get a bit crowded, especially on good days. At certain spots, waves break close to shore, offering quick rides right up to the sand.
Laguna Beach Coastline
Reef-heavy, scenic, and technical waves tucked between coves and cliffs, Laguna Beach is also known for its powerful waves that attract experienced surfers looking for challenging breaks.
One thing is certain: Laguna Beach consistently delivers a memorable surf experience for those seeking both beauty and intensity in South Orange County.
Dana Point & Capistrano Coast
South Orange County surf offers a unique combination of pointbreaks, reefs, and beach breaks, making it a diverse destination for surfers of all levels.
Dana Point & Capistrano: Once home to the legendary Killer Dana wave, the construction of the harbor breakwater dramatically altered the surf, diminishing the quality of the original break but creating new opportunities nearby. Today, Doheny State Beach stands out as the perfect place for beginners, thanks to its gentle waves and long ride that can take surfers all the way to the shore. The adjacent park facilities provide added convenience for families and visitors.
San Clemente Zone
A dense cluster of points, reefs, and beach breaks forming one of the best surf zones on the planet, San Clemente is home to legendary spots like Trestles, T-Street, and San Onofre—often affectionately called “San O.” Trestles is famous for its long walk in, but the effort is rewarded as surfers try to catch some of the best waves in Southern California, especially when a south swell transforms the wave quality and size. The gentle, flowing faces at Lower Trestles allow for long, smooth rides all the way to the shore, attracting both beginners and professional surfers alike. T-Street Beach is also a favorite among professional surfers due to its ideal surf conditions and historical significance. San Onofre, with its gentle waves and historic status, is perfect for longboarders and those looking for a relaxed, extended ride.
San Onofre & Trestles Gateway
Open coastlines with cobblestone points and performance peaks.
Getting there
Getting There and Access
South Orange County is accessed via:
- John Wayne Airport (SNA)
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
The Pacific Coast Highway connects all major surf towns and provides access to various park options near the beaches, including skate parks and water parks.
Most breaks have stair or trail access, public beaches, and metered or permit parking. After you park, a short walk from the parking area can help you reach less crowded or more secluded surf spots.
A car is useful but some areas (San Clemente, Dana Point) are bike-friendly.
When planning your trip to South Orange County for surfing, consider access, transportation, and parking availability to make the most of your experience.
Crowds
Newport Beach: heavy (can get a bit more crowded during weekends and swell events)
Laguna Beach: moderate–heavy (some spots are a bit less crowded, but still busy at peak times)
Dana Point: heavy (expect a bit of a crowd, especially at popular breaks)
San Clemente: very heavy (crowds can be a bit overwhelming, especially at Trestles)
San Onofre: moderate–heavy (can be a bit more manageable, but still busy on good days)
Crowds are a constant — timing, tides, and flexibility are key. Locals often know the best times to avoid crowds, so paying attention to the details of crowd patterns can help you get a better surf experience.
Lineup Lowdown
South OC lineups demand awareness and respect:
- Don’t drop in
- Don’t snake
- Don’t paddle straight to the inside
- Respect rotation
- Know where to sit based on your ability
- Beginners should avoid advanced reefs
- Longboard and shortboard peaks are often separate
- Respect the locals and their detailed knowledge of the lineup
Pay close attention to the details of lineup etiquette, as understanding these nuances helps everyone enjoy the waves.
Surfing well and behaving well go hand in hand here.
Surf seasons and when to go
The best time of the year to surf in Orange County - South
Surf Seasons and When to Go
Summer (June–September)
Prime season for South OC is summertime, when the weather is warm and the surf scene is at its peak.
South swells are the main driver of summer surf conditions, lighting up points with long, clean, peeling rights.
Crowded but beautiful, both longboarding and shortboarding thrive during this season.
Autumn (October–November)
Fall brings cleaner conditions, fewer crowds, and combo swells to South Orange County surf spots. During this seasonal transition, wind patterns often shift, with more frequent offshore breezes that improve wave quality and create excellent beachbreak days.
Winter (December–February)
North and west swells
More power
Heavier reefs and beachbreaks
Fewer longboard days
During winter, south Orange County surf is shaped by north and west swells, which bring more power and heavier waves to the region. Occasionally, huge swells hit the area, creating exceptional conditions for experienced surfers. However, compared to Ventura and San Diego, which often offer better or more consistent winter surf breaks, south Orange County can be less reliable during this season. Wind also plays a significant role in winter surf conditions, with offshore winds improving wave quality and onshore winds making the surf choppier. After periods of rain, water quality can decline due to runoff, so it’s important to be cautious and avoid surfing immediately following heavy rainfall.
Spring (March–May)
Mixed winds
Conditions can be a bit inconsistent but fun, offering variety for those looking to experiment across zones.
Wind can be unpredictable in spring, often shifting between offshore and onshore, which affects surf quality.
Best overall: Summer
Best for beginners: Small summer days
Best for performance surfing: Summer + winter reef days
Water Temperatures and Weather
Summer: 18–21°C (can warm up a bit more with consistent sun and offshore wind) Winter: 13–16°C (cools down a bit, especially with onshore wind)
Wetsuits: Summer: 2/2 or 3/2 Winter: 3/2 or 4/3
Weather is mild, with reliable sun dominating most days and creating warm water temperatures. Wind patterns, especially offshore breezes, can influence both water temperature and surf quality. Rain is rare, but after heavy rainfall, water quality can be affected due to runoff.
Can’t-Miss Surf Spots
Newport Beach
Lower T Street
A powerful sandbar that produces fast, hollow peaks, with surfers eager to catch these challenging waves as they break close to shore. Works best on combo swells and mid-tide. Strong currents and short rides make this a favorite for experienced shortboarders. The nearby jetties help shape the surf, influencing the quality and consistency of the waves.
Newport Pier Southside
Punchy beachbreak peaks with reliable shape. The jetties here play a key role in forming the surf breaks. It can get a bit crowded but is fun when conditions align, with waves often riding all the way to shore. Just down the beach, the Wedge stands out as a unique and challenging spot, famous for its huge, wedging waves that attract advanced surfers.
Laguna Beach
Rockpile (Aliso Creek)
A heavy, wedging reef and sand combo that can barrel hard on south swells. Shallow, fast, and unforgiving, Rockpile is known for its powerful waves that challenge even experienced surfers. Best left to confident surfers.
Brooks Street
A classic Laguna reef with hollow rights and lefts. Works best on south and southwest swell with clean conditions. Surfers here can enjoy a quality ride when the wave lines up, making it a favorite during the right swell.
Thalia Street
A reefy, high-performance wave with short, intense rides. The crowd can get a bit heavy at times, and the wave itself can be a bit unpredictable. Local crowd, technical surfing.
Sharks are a rare but possible hazard in Laguna Beach, though most surfers are more concerned with crowds and other common risks.
One thing is certain: Laguna Beach remains a top spot for surfers seeking a challenging and rewarding experience.
Dana Point & Capistrano
Salt Creek
A high-performance reef and sand setup with long walls, multiple sections, and both lefts and rights. One of the most consistent waves in South OC, Salt Creek offers a combination of reef and beach break features. The wave can be gentle at times, allowing surfers to ride all the way to shore.
Doheny State Beach
A legendary longboard wave offering soft, gentle, peeling rights over cobblestone and sand. Doheny is the perfect place for beginners and loggers, with long rides possible all the way to shore. The adjacent park provides convenient facilities for visitors.
Killer Dana
A heavy, fast right-hand reef that breaks outside the harbor. Advanced surfers only. The construction of the harbor breakwater dramatically changed the wave, diminishing its legendary surf quality.
San Clemente
Trestles (Lower Trestles)
One of the most famous high-performance waves in the world. Fast, rippable walls, endless sections, and elite-level surfing on display daily. Professional surfers are often seen here, drawn by the consistent quality and challenge. Surfers must walk a bit from the parking area to access the break, but the effort is rewarded with the chance to catch some of the best waves in South Orange County. On a strong south swell, the wave quality transforms, offering long, gentle rides that can carry you all the way to shore. Crowds can be a bit heavy, especially when conditions are prime.
Uppers
A playful, rippable peak that offers long walls and air sections. Crowded but electric, with a bit less intensity than Lower Trestles.
San Onofre (Old Man’s)
Known affectionately as “San O,” this historic longboard wave features soft, gentle, forgiving shoulders and timeless style. One of California’s most iconic surf spots, San O is perfect for beginners and longboarders, with waves that can be ridden all the way to shore.
204s & Church
Cobblestone points offering mellow to rippable waves depending on swell. Great for mid-lengths and longboards, with gentle sections ideal for a relaxed session.
Orange County - South surf travel guide
Find trips that fit a flexible lifestyle
Learning to Surf in South Orange County
Despite the reputation, South OC has excellent beginner zones with gentle waves that make learning a bit easier for newcomers.
Best beginner spots:
- Doheny State Beach – the perfect place for beginners to catch their first waves
- San Onofre (Old Man’s)
- Newport Beach on small days
- Capistrano inside reefs
Planning a trip to South Orange County for surf lessons is a great way to experience the local surf culture and improve your skills.
Lessons: AU$70–150
Board rentals: AU$30–70/day
Summer mornings offer the best learning windows.
Safety and Etiquette
- Crowds are the biggest hazard
- Reefs are shallow at Laguna and Dana
- Respect posted access rules
- Watch tides on cobblestone points
- Avoid advanced spots if learning
- Don’t leave valuables in cars
- Stay aware of surf school zones
- Sharks are a rare but possible hazard—encounters are extremely uncommon, but always be aware.
- Avoid entering the water for at least 72 hours after heavy rain due to increased pollution and runoff.
Pay attention to the details of safety and etiquette to ensure a positive experience for everyone.
Etiquette is everything here.
Surf and Yoga Retreats
Popular in:
- San Clemente
- Dana Point
- Laguna Beach
These surf and yoga retreats are offered in various locations along the South Orange County coast, each providing a unique atmosphere and access to different amenities.
Retreats usually include:
- Surf coaching
- Video analysis
- Yoga sessions
- Wellness meals
- Ocean swims
Each retreat offers specific details such as storage options, duration, and vendor preferences, allowing you to choose the experience that best fits your needs.
Prices range from AU$1,000–4,000 depending on accommodation.
Accommodation Options for Surfers
Budget motels: AU$120–200
Mid-range hotels: AU$200–350
Beach rentals: AU$300–700
Luxury stays: AU$600–1,500
The cost of accommodation varies widely depending on the type and location you choose. There are a variety of locations in South Orange County, from beachfront rentals in Dana Point to hotels near the surf in San Clemente, each offering different amenities and price points.
San Clemente offers the best balance of price and surf access.
Comparison to Other Surf Destinations
South OC vs North OC:
- More points
- Longer rides
- More history
- Typical county surf conditions in South OC feature a combination of beachbreaks and point breaks, offering moderate but sometimes exceptional waves compared to the punchier, more consistent surf found in North OC.
South OC vs Malibu:
- More performance-focused
- Shorter rides
- More variety
- The combination of breaks in South OC, including spots like Salt Creek and the Wedge, provides a diverse surf experience not found in Malibu.
South OC vs Hawaii:
- Less power
- Easier accessibility
- More crowded
- Waves in Hawaii can get huge, dwarfing the generally smaller but more accessible surf in South OC.
South OC vs Australia:
- Less raw
- More polished
- More consistent access
- While Australia is known for its huge, raw surf, South OC offers a more refined and consistent surf environment.
South OC vs San Diego County and Ventura:
- South OC has a unique mix of breaks, but San Diego County is known for its consistent surf, and Ventura often offers better winter breaks when South OC is less reliable.
South Orange County is refined, elite, and iconic. The reputation of orange county surf is strong in the broader surf world, with legendary spots like Huntington Beach and unique, challenging waves at the Wedge. Trestles is a world-class break frequented by professional surfers, while Dana Point’s breakwater has altered local surf quality and beach accessibility. SoCal remains a prime surf destination, attracting surfers from around the globe.
Expenses (AUD)
Accommodation: AU$120–1,500 (cost varies by location and season)
Meals: AU$15–30
Board rental: AU$30–70
Parking: AU$5–25/day (cost depends on proximity to surf spots and the type of park, including skate parks, water parks, and public parking lots, each with their own fees)
Fuel: high
When planning your trip to South Orange County, be sure to budget for these costs to make the most of your surf experience.
Not cheap — but the waves justify it.
Cultural Notes
Expect:
- Deep surf history
- High-performance lineups
- Surf industry roots
- Early mornings
- Clean beaches
- Fit, active lifestyle
- Strong surf identity
- Locals play a key role in shaping the surf culture, often possessing in-depth knowledge of the best breaks and sometimes being protective of their favorite spots.
- Unique details such as specific board preferences, favored surf vendors, and the way sessions are organized contribute to what makes South Orange County surf culture stand out.
Surfing here is serious — but still joyful.
Cell Coverage & Wi-Fi
Excellent everywhere
Strong 5G coverage
Cafés and surf shops offer Wi-Fi—details on coverage show most hotspots provide fast, reliable connections for streaming and uploads.
Reliable data connections ensure surfers can stay connected, whether checking surf reports or working remotely.
Perfect for remote work between sessions
Final Thoughts
South Orange County is one of the most important surf regions on Earth. With legendary pointbreaks, consistent swell, beautiful coastal towns, and a surf culture that has influenced generations, it represents the very best of Southern California surfing.
From the playful sandbars of Newport to the reef-lined coves of Laguna, the world-class walls of Salt Creek, the historic glide of Doheny, and the high-performance energy of Trestles, South OC offers waves for every style and level — if you’re willing to earn your place in the lineup.
Crowded, competitive, beautiful, and endlessly surfable — South Orange County is surf heritage in motion.
