Best Surfing Beaches in California
5 legendary California surf breaks — from Malibu's First Point longboard paradise to Huntington's 10-mile open-ocean break, the birthplace of American surf culture.
Malibu Surfrider Beach
The birthplace of California surf culture since the 1950s — First Point's long, peeling right-hand wave was where the Gidget era began, and the soul of California surfing lives on here.
Huntington Beach
Surf City USA — host of the US Open of Surfing with 10 miles of consistent Pacific break. The Huntington Pier creates a classic wedge that attracts surfers of all levels year-round.
Venice Beach
Consistent beach breaks and a vibrant surf scene set against the backdrop of LA's most colourful beachfront — a great intermediate spot with reliable small-to-medium Pacific swells.
Manhattan Beach
South Bay's finest surf break — the pier creates an ideal peak both north and south, with a deep local surf culture and some of the cleanest, most consistent surf in LA County.
Hermosa Beach
A beloved beach break at the foot of the pier — fast and punchy waves that have shaped generations of South Bay surfers, alongside a legendary beach culture and active surf community.
Beach Comparison
| Beach | Sand | Water Clarity | Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Venice Beach | Golden | Moderate | ★★★★★ |
| Malibu Surfrider Beach | Coarse Golden | Good | ★★★☆☆ |
| Huntington Beach | Golden | Moderate | ★★★★★ |
| Manhattan Beach | Golden | Good | ★★★★★ |
| Hermosa Beach | Golden | Good | ★★★★★ |