Ponto Surf Guide
Surf spot guide
Ideal Surf Conditions
Swell Direction
W, NW, SW
Wind
None or E to NE.
Surf Height
Shoulder-high to 3 feet overhead.
Tide
Low to medium.
Ponto Surf Guide
For years, this stretch of sand in South Carlsbad was indecipherable from the miles of other average beachbreak in the area. But, as some spots fade into obscurity over the years, others rise to center stage. Ponto is one case where the Army Corps of Engineers have done some good for the area's surfers, when they decided that the Batiquitos Lagoon needed to be opened up on a permanent basis. They constructed two large jetties that, since then, have proven to be a virtual sandbar factory. Newly formed banks don't stay secret for long. Ponto breaks year-round, with rights funneling off the south jetty during the winter and lefts reeling off the north jetty during the summer. Since the lagoon is constantly flowing, watch for a nasty rip that'll suck you out to sea.
Local Vibe
Thankful and competitive.
Crowd Factor
Average to heavy.
Spot Rating
Punchy little beachbreak most days, can get exceptional on a good combo or tropical swell.
Shoulder Burn
Pretty average most days.
Water Quality
Not great, toxic after a big rain.
Hazards
The rip on the dropping tide.
Access
Easy.
Bottom
Sand, jetty.
Best Season
Year-round.
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