Bolsa Chica State Beach Surf Guide
Surf spot guide
Ideal Surf Conditions
Swell Direction
Combo of swells SSE, S, SW with WSW, W, WNW.
Wind
NE, Santa Anas.
Surf Height
Shoulder- to 3 feet overhead.
Tide
Medium.
Bolsa Chica State Beach Surf Guide
Despite all the recent changes in HB, the waves remain unchanged -- miles and miles of SW-facing beachbreak, mostly average, occasionally quite good. Diehards swear by the break, claiming it's the ultimate surfer's wave, and others just laugh and say that contest organizers can have it every day of the year, for all they care. Whatever the case, there are still classic California days to be had. Just wake up early one morning and if it's a peaky swell with Santa Ana winds, you'll side with the diehards.
LINEUP TIPS:
Etiquette | Surf Safety Basics
Ability Level
All Abilities
Beginner to advanced.
Local Vibe
Welcoming
Can be heavy at the pier, a few grumps at Cliffs, otherwise mild.
Crowd Factor
Moderate
Zoo at the Pier and Cliffs, everyone is spread out elsewhere.
Spot Rating
Fun
7
Shoulder Burn
Medium
4, but can be a 10 on a south swell current.
Water Quality
Fair
6, and State Beach can be a 10 near the Santa Ana River if it's flowing.
Hazards
Stingrays (in summer), errant boards, parking tickets.
Bring Your
Shortboard, Funboard, Longboard, Fish, Bodyboard
Access
Free parking on side streets and meters.
Bottom
Sand.
Best Season
Year-round, but fall can be epic.
Do you have local knowledge about Bolsa Chica State Beach?
If you have any insights or information to add to this spot guide, drop us a note at [email protected]