San Onofre is one of those places that feels like a step back in time. The waves are generally mellow, the lineup is filled with longboards, and the beach has a laid-back Southern California surf culture that is getting harder and harder to find.
Located just south of San Clemente, San Onofre is technically in San Diego County and is one of the most iconic surf destinations in Southern California. Whether you’re looking to catch your first wave, spend a few hours cruising on a longboard, or simply soak up some classic surf culture, San O is worth the drive.
Where is San Onofre Beach?
San Onofre State Beach is located just south of San Clemente, along the northern edge of San Diego County. From San Diego, take Interstate 5 north and exit at Basilone Road. The Surf Beach entrance is approximately three miles south of San Clemente. Note that is costs $20 to enter for day use unless you have a California Explorer Pass.
The park is actually much larger than just the famous surf beach. San Onofre State Beach includes the Surf Beach area, San Onofre Bluffs and San Mateo Campground, with several miles of coastline to explore.
Surfing San Onofre State Beach Overview
San Onofre is famous for its slow, rolling waves and historic surf culture. The Surf Beach area is divided into three primary breaks from north to south: The Point, Old Man’s and Dogpatch.
The Point
The Point is the northernmost of the three main Surf Beach breaks and is one of the most recognizable surf spots at San O. When the swell is good, long peeling waves (mostly lefts) make this a favorite for longboarders looking to get into some classic San Onofre trim. When it’s big, this is the one break here that get’s good enough for a short board. Expect, long lines that you can carve a tapestry on!
Old Man’s
Old Man’s is probably the break most people picture when they think of surfing San Onofre. The waves are typically slow and forgiving, making it a popular spot for longboards, beginners and surfers who simply want to enjoy a mellow session.
Dogpatch
Dogpatch is the southernmost of the three main Surf Beach breaks. Like the rest of San O, it generally favors a slower, more relaxed style of surfing, although the reef can make getting in and out of the water a little tricky.
All three breaks sit over a rocky reef and they perform particularly well on south swells.
San O Quick Facts
Best swell direction: South
Wave type: Slow, rolling reef breaks
Best board: Longboard, mid-length or funboard
Crowd factor: High
Vibe: Classic, laid-back California surf culture
Parking: State park day-use parking
Surf Beach hours: 6 AM–10 PM from April 15–September 30; 6 AM–8 PM from October 1–April 14.
When is the Best Time of Year for Surfing San Onofre?
San Onofre can produce rideable waves throughout the year, but south swells are the name of the game.
That makes the warmer months particularly fun for San O. A good south swell can turn the normally mellow waves into long, cruisy rides without completely changing the laid-back personality of the lineup.
Winter can still produce fun waves, especially when conditions are smaller and cleaner. But if you’re planning a dedicated San O surf trip, I’d keep an eye on the south swell forecast.
Which Board to Bring for Surfing San Onofre?
Bring the longboard!
San Onofre is one of the best places in Southern California to break out a classic longboard. The waves are generally slow and soft, and the long, rolling walls are perfect for trimming, walking the board and enjoying a more relaxed style of surfing.
A mid-length or funboard can also be a great choice if you want something a little more maneuverable.
Shortboarders can certainly find waves here, especially when the swell picks up, but if you’re looking for the quintessential San Onofre experience, it’s hard to beat a big board and a mellow morning session.
San Onofre Crowd Factor
Here’s the catch: San O is no secret.
The mellow waves and legendary reputation attract surfers from all over Southern California, and the lineup can get extremely crowded. Weekends and good south swells are especially popular. If you go on a weekend, be prepared to wait in line at the State Beach entrance. They only let in as many cars as parking spots so it’s not uncommon to wait an hour during busy summer weekends.
If you want the best shot at finding some breathing room, go early on a weekday and be prepared to share the lineup.
And remember: San Onofre is a place where surf etiquette matters. With plenty of longboards in the water and waves that can accommodate multiple surfers, being patient, giving people space and knowing your place in the lineup will go a long way.
Surf Breaks Nearby
If San Onofre is packed or the conditions aren’t cooperating, there are plenty of other options nearby.
Trestles is just north of San Onofre and is one of the most famous surf spots in California. The waves are much more performance-oriented than the mellow waves at Old Man’s and The Point, and access requires a walk via the nature trail.
San Onofre Surf Review
Accessibility: At least a 30 minute drive from San Diego and sometimes a wait at the entrance make this a bit more difficult to get to than your average San Diego greak.
Waves: A classic longboarding and beginner wave with long, cruisy rides. It even stands up for epic rides when it’s overhead.
Crowd: Extremely friendly and approachable crowd. Everyone is here to have fun but it can get busy.
Scenery: Cool views of northern San Diego coastline. The old power plant can be an eye sore.
OVERALL: A classic summertime wave. Definitely worth checking out and ticking off your surfing bucketlist.
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Please keep your parks and beaches clean by picking up after yourself. Do me a favor and surf San O how you found it. Check out Surfrider San Diego if you are looking to participate or contribute to a charitable ocean cause.
