Seal Beach Pier, Southside Surf Guide
Surf spot guide
Seal Beach Pier, Southside Surf Guide
While there are a number of consistently better waves within a 10-minute drive of the pier, Seal Beach typically has fun (if not overwhelming) peaks on offer. During huge west swells when the sand is perfect, this normally average beach break can turn into a dredging slab.
Ability Level
All Abilities
Ranges from gentle, user-friendly rollers to heavier peaks depending on swell and sand.
Local Vibe
Doable
Not the most welcoming crowd in Southern California, but also doesn't get good that often, so things remain civil.
Crowd Factor
Moderate
Normally pretty crowded, especially when the sand is good.
Spot Rating
Fun
Average beachbreak, except for the rare, XL El Nino swell with perfect sand.
Shoulder Burn
Medium
Typical beachbreak paddle out.
Water Quality
Fair
You are in the middle of Orange County, with river mouths and Long Beach nearby. Be careful after rain storms.
Hazards
Runoff, pollution, sting rays.
Bring Your
Shortboard, Funboard, Longboard, Fish, Bodyboard, Skimming, Bodysurfing
Access
Public parking at pier.
Bottom
Sand.
Best Season
Big west swells during an El Nino winter transform this otherwise average beach break into something noteworthy.
Do you have local knowledge about Seal Beach Pier, Southside?
If you have any insights or information to add to this spot guide, drop us a note at [email protected]