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A Guide to Surfing in California

Updated February 17, 2025
McKenna Mobley
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A surfer holding his surfboard at the beach

Some of the best surf spots in California are world-famous, but many others require some insider knowledge to get to. Lucky for you, I’m here to help. As a born and raised Cali girl, I’ve hit my fair share of waves here and can’t wait to fill you in on California's best beaches for surfing. Grab your board and let’s go!

15 Best Places to Go Surfing in California San Onofre State Beach Once you’ve surfed at this local favorite spot, you’re officially initiated into the surf culture of Southern California. San Onofre surfers in the background of my beach bonfire 🗺️ Distance from Los Angeles: 1 hour | Google Maps | San Onofre State Beach Website | Amenities: restrooms, showers, drinking water San Onofre State Beach is a SoCal surf spot that o...

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McKenna Mobley is an avid adventurer, traveler, mountaineer, and writer from Southern California. Her goal is to climb some of the world's highest mountains and visit as many countries as she can. She loves Latin America and has been to almost every Latin country. She also has a thirst for solo adventuring and has hiked 400 consecutive miles by herself through the Arizona desert. She is the author of Budget Travel 101, Your Practical Handbook for Exploring the World on the Cheap.