California has long stood as a global epicenter of surf culture, with its iconic coastline stretching over 800 miles from the rugged cliffs of Northern California to the sunny shores of San Diego. In 2025, California continues to dominate the surf scene, offering a wide variety of waves for all levels—from mellow longboard peelers to heavy reef breaks. The state’s surf environment is not only thriving but evolving, as climate shifts, technological innovations, and renewed ocean conservation efforts reshape the way surfers experience the Golden State’s waters.
So where is the best surfing in California in 2025? While the answer may vary depending on a surfer’s skill level and preference, this article provides an expert breakdown of the top surfing spots, categorized by region, wave type, and unique character. We’ll also explore seasonal considerations, crowd factors, and what’s new in the California surf scene in 2025.
Why California Remains a Surfing Powerhouse
California’s appeal to surfers has always been rooted in its diversity. From fog-covered northern coastlines with powerful, icy swells to warm, sun-kissed beaches in the south offering playful, user-friendly waves, the state provides unmatched variety.
In 2025, advancements in surf forecasting, widespread access to e-foil and softboard rentals, and eco-conscious surf tourism have made California an even more attractive destination. Surf camps, schools, competitions, and local surf communities have never been more vibrant or inclusive, continuing to welcome surfers of all backgrounds to ride the Pacific.
Northern California: Raw Power and Uncrowded Lineups
Mavericks – Half Moon Bay
One of the most legendary big-wave surf spots on Earth, Mavericks remains a magnet for elite surfers in 2025. Located near Half Moon Bay, this reef break awakens during the winter months, producing massive waves often exceeding 60 feet. Thanks to improvements in safety protocols and jet-ski assistance, more skilled surfers than ever are tackling this beast.
Mavericks is not for the faint of heart. It demands extensive training, preparation, and respect for the ocean. The 2025 big-wave season is expected to see stronger Pacific storms, possibly yielding even more epic swells.
Ocean Beach – San Francisco
Ocean Beach continues to draw core surfers looking for strong, barreling beach breaks. With shifting sandbars and often relentless paddle-outs, it can be punishing, but when it’s firing, it delivers heavy, thundering waves with relatively low crowd density compared to SoCal.
2025 updates: local environmental groups have made major strides in keeping this area clean and sustainable, and surf apps now offer more accurate real-time forecasts for this notoriously fickle spot.
Central California: Rugged Beauty and Consistent Swells
Morro Bay
For those looking for consistent waves without the hustle of the south, Morro Bay offers year-round surf. The waves here are clean and powerful, and the iconic Morro Rock creates unique wave formations ideal for intermediate surfers.
Morro Bay is also gaining traction in 2025 for its rising eco-tourism. Surf retreats often include kayaking, coastal hiking, and sustainable lodging, drawing environmentally conscious wave-riders.
Pismo Beach
Further down the coast, Pismo Beach is experiencing a renaissance. With wide-open beach breaks perfect for longboarding and small-wave fun, it’s ideal for families, beginners, and casual surfers.
2025 has seen an uptick in beginner-friendly surf schools and wellness-focused surf camps, making Pismo a go-to spot for those new to the sport.
Southern California: The Cultural and Competitive Hub
Rincon – Santa Barbara
Known as the “Queen of the Coast,” Rincon is arguably California’s most famous right-hand point break. Its long, peeling waves can stretch for hundreds of yards on a good day, offering endless rides for intermediate and advanced surfers.
In 2025, Rincon continues to be a proving ground for SoCal’s rising talent, especially during winter swells. It’s crowded, yes, but the quality of the waves and the tradition of respectful lineup etiquette keep the experience rewarding.
Malibu – Surfrider Beach
When talking about iconic surf spots, Malibu’s Surfrider Beach is non-negotiable. Known for its ultra-long, glassy rights, Malibu is a longboarder’s dream.
In 2025, Surfrider is still one of the most crowded surf spots in California, but the vibe remains friendly. Local community initiatives have improved parking and shoreline maintenance, while drone surf photography now gives riders a fresh perspective on their sessions.
Trestles – San Clemente
Lower Trestles remains the most high-performance wave in the state. It’s a training ground for elite surfers and hosts major events in the World Surf League (WSL). The wave is fast, clean, and perfect for shortboard maneuvers.
Access requires a bit of a walk or bike ride, but the effort is well worth it. In 2025, a major highlight is the introduction of solar-powered surf shuttles, reducing the environmental impact of visiting surfers.
Huntington Beach – Surf City USA
Still living up to its nickname, Huntington Beach is the epicenter of competitive surf culture in California. The iconic pier break is home to numerous competitions, including the Huntington Beach Pro and U.S. Open of Surfing.
In 2025, the beach is more vibrant than ever, with digital surfboards, smart wetsuits, and live-streamed wave contests. For those looking to combine surf with lifestyle and tech, Huntington Beach is unmatched.
San Onofre – Old Man’s
Perfect for beginners and those seeking a relaxing surf experience, San Onofre’s Old Man’s break offers mellow, rolling waves ideal for longboarding. The beach retains a nostalgic 1960s vibe, complete with vintage vans and laid-back surf etiquette.
The area’s preservation has improved with stricter conservation rules in 2025, ensuring that the charm and natural beauty of San O remain intact.
San Diego County – A Diverse Surf Playground
From La Jolla’s reef breaks to Swami’s in Encinitas and Black’s Beach near UCSD, San Diego County provides incredible surf variety.
Swami’s is a perfect right-hand point break offering long rides, beloved by longboarders and shortboarders alike.
Black’s Beach is a powerful beach break, favored by experienced surfers for its deep-water swell energy and occasional tubes.
Tourmaline Surfing Park and Pacific Beach continue to attract beginners and longboarders.
In 2025, San Diego’s surf scene has embraced inclusive surfing, adaptive surf programs, and community engagement like never before, fostering a welcoming environment for everyone.
Best Times to Surf in California 2025
Winter (November–March):
- Best for large, clean swells
- Ideal for advanced surfers targeting big-wave spots like Mavericks, Ocean Beach, and Rincon
Spring (April–June):
- Transition season with fewer crowds
- Fun waves and warmer weather
- Great for intermediate surfers
Summer (July–September):
Southern hemisphere swells light up Trestles, Malibu, and San Diego
Excellent for all levels, especially beginners
Fall (October–November):
- Arguably the best time to surf in California
- Combo swells, offshore winds, and manageable crowds
New Trends in the California Surf Scene 2025
Smart Surf Gear: GPS-enabled surf watches, real-time wave height sensors, and AI-powered coaching apps are now common.
Sustainable Surfing: More surfers are using eco-friendly boards, reef-safe sunscreens, and attending clean-up events.
Inclusive Communities: There’s been a powerful rise in women’s surf collectives, BIPOC surf clubs, and adaptive surf programs.
Wave Pools: Inland wave parks, like the Palm Springs Surf Club, offer controlled conditions for training and fun, though they complement—not replace—natural surf.
Conclusion
If you’re chasing the best surfing in California in 2025, your destination will depend on what you value most:
- For legendary power: Mavericks or Blacks Beach
- For classic longboarding: Malibu or San Onofre
- For high-performance shortboarding: Trestles or Rincon
- For beginner-friendly waves: Pismo, Pacific Beach, or Old Man’s
- For cultural immersion: Huntington Beach or Santa Cruz
California’s surf scene is richer than ever. Whether you’re paddling out for the first time or chasing your hundredth barrel, the Golden State continues to offer world-class waves, timeless beauty, and a community that keeps the spirit of surfing alive.