Which Spots Are the Top for Surfing in OC?
Orange County is known for its beaches and prime surfing opportunities. For any level of experience you have in surfing, there are great options in the OC to work on your craft. During the summer and fall seasons you will find is the prime time go. The winter months will bring storms and occasional hurricanes. Here are the best beaches to try surfing at any level of experience.
Salt Creek - PCH at Ritz Carlton Drive, Dana Point, CA
At the northern end of Laguna Niguel you can find Salt Creek. Locals and long boarders are usually hanging out here in this beach within a beautiful large cove. The Dana High School surf team gets together here as well.
To get here, you’ll have to park at the top of the hill and access is off PCH and Ritz Carlton Drive. To the right is the “Gravels” area which is for experienced surfers. The front section is the “Middles” which can be hit or miss on the level of strong waves. To the left you’ll find “The Point” which offers a great area to take-off.
San Onofre - Basilone Road at the 5 Freeway, San Clemente, CA
If you’re looking for a historic surfing area in the OC, San Onofre is it. You just exit the 5 freeway at Basilone Road to get here. Here you’ll find “San O,” a surfing spot for beginner waves, “The Point,” the most challenging, “Old Man’s,” which is the easiest, and finally “Dog Patch” for highly experienced surfers.
Huntington Beach
Huntington Beach is a great surfing beach. Along Pacific Coast Highway you can find this beach in the heart of the OC. The vibe is a bit competitive but if you go closer to Bolsa Chica, south of the pier, or the cliffs around Golden West Street you’ll find emptier peaks.
Surfing in the OC is a hugely popular sport and a great way to feel engaged with the community.
