Huntington 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-high to 3 feet overhead.
Tide
Medium.
Huntington State Beach Surf Guide
Despite all the surrounding changes in HB, the waves remain unchanged. 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 up and down the stretch. Just wake up early one morning and if it's a peaky swell with Santa Ana winds, you'll side with the diehards.
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
Serviceable.
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
Car rip-offs at Cliffs, southerly current, loose longboards at South Bolsa, baby white sharks at the Huntington Flats.
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 Huntington State Beach?
If you have any insights or information to add to this spot guide, drop us a note at [email protected]
