While not as notorious or consistent as other waves in Pacific Beach, PB Point surf break is no slouch. If you strike it during the right season and swell, the waves can be pretty epic.
In this local surf spot review, find out when to surf PB Point, what board to bring, and what to expect.
Where is PB Point?
PB Point is in Pacific Beach just around the corner from Tourmaline and on the way into Bird Rock. In fact, you could walk the point from Tourmaline for a long paddle out to PB Point. However, this review will focus on getting to PB Point from Calumet beach.
Calumet beach is a small park in San Diego just North of Tourmaline. As you go North, take a left on Sea Ridge Drive and continue to follow the round-a-bout. Continue following the street along the coast until you arrive at a small grassy park. This is Calumet Park in San Diego.
From the grassy park, there is a path leading down the bluff at water’s edge to a rocky beach. Take this path and begin your paddle South to PB Point. Don’t confuse the break directly in front of the park as PB Point. It’s a solid paddle out so get your arms ready.
PB Point Surf Overview
One of five-point breaks in San Diego, PB Point is sure to deliver a longer ride than your average wave.
It only breaks on an above average swell and during a low to mid tide. But when it does, it’s well worth the paddle. Primarily a right-hand break that can even connect all the way to Tourmaline on a solid swell. This will make for a super long ride. On occasion, you can also catch a left here but be wary about getting caught on the inside.
This rocky, reef break bottom allows for long meandering rides but gets a little spicy on a big swell. Be sure to check this out during your next stop in Pacific Beach.
PB Point Quick Facts
Level: Intermediate
Wave Height: Shoulder high to double over head
Tides: Low to mid-tide
Water Temperature: Average year-round water temperature in San Diego is about 64° F.
Swell Direction: W, NW
Wind Direction: E, NE
*For a live PB Point surf report, check Surfline. Our list of local surf cams also has live views nearby.
When is the Best Time of Year for Surfing PB Point?
Winter is far and away the best time of year to surf PB Point. I would say November-January is the ideal window. This is because PB Point works best off a NW swell, most common in winter months. Also, during November and December, you will have the best chance for clean offshore winds to groom the lineup. During later winter months and Spring, it’s more susceptible to getting messy out on the point.
In summertime, the swell really slows down. At which time, you’ll need a log to chase anything out off the point.
What Board to Bring for Surfing PB Point?
Bigger boards rule for surfing PB Point. This is a slow, rolling wave with only one tricky technical part. Most of the year, a longboard is a requirement.
During swells that most typically happen in winter, you are still going to want some extra foam, be that a mid-length board or a step-up gun. A personal favorite for me at this break is the Poacher from Degree 33. This board has a knack for getting into slow waves and making tight maneuvers when required.
Easy transition from a longboard. Still has enough volume to 'poach' both small and large waves.
Is it Crowded?
Throughout most of the year, PB Point is an empty lineup save for a few sparse surfers. During these times, it’s a mellow friendly line-up. However, when the surf is on, the attitude in the water changes. It’s a bit more cutthroat out here as groups of surfers jockey for position.
With that said, the lineup is never quite as packed as other popular wintertime breaks like Black’s Beach or Sunset Cliffs.
Surf Breaks Nearby
Atop the grassy Calumet Park, you’ll see a few different breaks. To the immediate South is PB Point. Directly out front is Calumet Beach and to the North is Big Rock.
Other well-known breaks nearby are South of PB Point surf break, which include Tourmaline and Crystal Pier.
Final PB Point Surf Review
Accessibility: Several access points between Tourmaline Beach, Sea Ridge Drive and Calumet Park. Shouldn’t have trouble parking but the paddle can be a shoulder burner on big days.
Waves: A gem in the winter with a long, sweeping right hand wave. Pretty fickle throughout the rest of the year.
Crowd: Mellow most of time except during a swell when it is more aggressive.
Scenery: Impressive views of the bluffs in North PB. Hard to get from any other vantage point.
OVERALL: A solid wave in winter but otherwise, not much to see here.
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Please keep your parks and beaches clean by picking up after yourself. Do me a favor and surf PB Point how you found it. Check out Surfrider San Diego if you are looking to participate or contribute to a charitable ocean cause.
