To learn to surf is one of the greatest ambitions and to-do tasks that every American or beach lover would have on their lists. But, when you realize you have to plan your entire surf vacation or go to the beach and experience what you have wanted to learn for so long, you’ll need to know which surf spots in California are hotspots and safe for you as a beginner and learner. Don’t worry, we have got you covered.
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1. Malibu, Los Angeles
Yes, all of us have known this beach as the center of attraction of California. Not only this, but this beach is also considered the perfect surfing spot in California as it has its original waves. Topanga Beach is the first natural beach you will arrive at in Malibu. Topanga has a pretty steady wave. And for a beginner, Surfrider Beach will be a good choice. The wave length is around 3 to 8 feet which is very flexible and advised for learners to surf at. You can contact the tour guide or a nearby surf shop to buy the best gear and learn excellent surfing without any risks being involved.
By the end of the summer, around August-September, the right conditions indicate that it will likely be possible to surf the entire Surfrider beach length.
You can visit The Surfrider Hotel and Malibu Popoyo Hotel for the best comfort.
2. Cowell’s, Santa Cruz
This beginner-friendly beach with warm water gets its name after a rich white man of Yore- Henry Cowell. Its name remained the same even after it was donated to Santa Cruz. People all over California know it as one of the best beaches for beginners- it is famous for a long, slow, novice-friendly longboard wave.
It is located in a cove that is in between a municipal wharf and a lighthouse and is protected from robust winds. This beach is best during low tides for beginners, and you can visit it during spring. The place might be crowded, but don’t worry because the people here are very supportive and patient toward beginners learning to surf.
Santa Cruz has its original surf school since 1978, owned by Richard Schmidt. This surfing school has helped innumerable people to learn and polish their surfing skills.
Dream Inn Santa Cruz will be an ideal place for you to stay.
3. Tamarack, Carlsbad
Carlsbad State Beach, also called Tamarack State Beach, is located where Carlsbad Boulevard is crossed by Tamarack Avenue. This beach stretches up to Frazee Beach. Here, people can find sandy break beach conditions and well-formed, small waves without much crowd.
It is a perfect place for beginners who can learn to surf without many people around, making the learning process easier. It is best for novices when the tides are low as it might be safer for them. At Carlsbad State Beach, groundswells are more common as compared to wind swells.
So Cal Surf lessons can help you learn and acquire surfing skills as they have skilled and professional trainers. You can stay at Carlsbad Inn Beach Resort and Carlsbad by the Sea Hotel if you want to enjoy excellent facilities and be served by the hospitable staff.
4. Mondos Beach, Ventura
Mondos Beach is one of the best and incredibly suitable beaches for beginners who are looking for a perfect and favorable place to learn surfing. The average wave height, due to a sandbreak, is 2-5 foot which is great for beginners according to the level of skills they possess.
The waves are gentle along with a friendly environment of the beach, which is a great advantage for beginners as well as young people. You can visit it any time during the day; however, we will advise you to get there a bit early if you want to secure a parking spot.
One Wave Surf School Ventura provides great surfing lessons at an affordable price. The best time to visit this beach is during winter.
You can stay at The Pierpont Inn and Ventura Beach Marriott for a comfortable and cozy experience.
5. Trestles/San Onofre – between San Diego & Orange County
Made up of several different breaks, Trestles is known as one of the best and most consistent surf spots in California with Lower Trestles being the most well known.
The sections of Church and Middles are more friendly for beginners and suited to longboards and funboards.
6. Bolinas Beach, Bolinas
This best-for-beginner-surfing beach is located 13 miles northwest of San Francisco. It is a small town with only 1600 residents and is perfect for surfing if you are a beginner. The average wave height is 2-3 foot which is a great advantage for beginners, making the learning experience safe and easy for them.
There is a surf shop nearby where all the gear needed by you is available. Also, you can hire a private instructor if you want. The best time to visit is during the summer season and the month of September.
You can stay at Smiley Schooner Saloon and Hotel for a wonderful experience.
