San Clemente State Beach Surf Guide
Surf spot guide
Ideal Surf Conditions
Swell Direction
S-SW and short/mid period W-WNW swells.
Wind
NE, E
Surf Height
Head-high.
Tide
Low-mid.
San Clemente State Beach Surf Guide
A release valve for the crazy crowds and competitive vibes down at Lowers, San Clemente State Beach is a fun (but not epic) beachbreak half a mile up the coast from the Trestles area. The lineup stays relatively empty, despite easy access and consistently surfable waves.
Ability Level
All Abilities
User-friendly wave appropriate for all surfers.
Local Vibe
Welcoming
Stays pretty mellow, as all the hype and aggression is down at Lowers.
Crowd Factor
Moderate
Nowhere near as crowded as Trestles.
Spot Rating
Fun
Not the best wave in San Clemente, but a fun beach break when the sand is good.
Shoulder Burn
Light
Easy paddle out until the swell gets well overhead.
Water Quality
Clean
Bearing in mind that this is Southern California, the water is actually relatively clean.
Hazards
Mid-morning onshores.
Bring Your
Shortboard, Fish, Funboard, Longboard, Bodyboard
Access
Parking lot with bathrooms and direct access, or walk/paddle up from Trestles.
Bottom
Sand.
Best Season
Summer and autumn bring south swells and good conditions.
Do you have local knowledge about San Clemente State Beach?
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