If you’re new to skimboarding in San Diego, you’re in luck—locals have some prime beaches to shred. Here’s the scoop…
San Diego’s Top Skimboarding Spots
1. La Jolla Cove
Located: Just below the La Jolla Museum of Contemporary Art, tucked into the cliffs.
Why it’s great: Minimal crowds, especially during high tide. Waves often bounce off the south wall, giving you fun sidekicks. A little hidden gem vibe, kind of like a West Street Laguna copycat.
2. Marine Street Beach (South La Jolla)
Located: At the end of Marine Street, down winding roads below the bluffs—just south of Children’s Pool.
Why it’s great: A shore-break machine. When a south swell hits, it’s like having your own Aliso Beach. Powerful waves and less crowded than the main La Jolla spots.
3. Tamarack Beach (Carlsbad)
Located: In Carlsbad, between Tamarack and Grandview parks.
Why it’s great: Local favorite for a long stretch of shore-break action—but beware summer crowds. Great all around, especially at high tide, with options for paddling out at low.
4. North Oceanside (Near Surfrider Drive)
Located: Between the pier and harbor along Surfrider Drive in Oceanside.
Why it’s great: A lesser-known local hot spot—smooth shore-break vibes without the crowds.
5. D Street, Encinitas
Located: D Street beach in Encinitas (south of Cardiff).
Why it’s great: Reddit user pro-tip: “a little bit left to the stairs there is this amazing spot.” Soft waves, friendly locals, chill beach atmosphere.
Bonus Skimboarding Spots
“The Wall” (aka Wipeout Beach) in La Jolla has a solid winter sider wave—perfect for wraps and barrels if conditions cooperate. Locals say beginners find Pacific Beach and La Jolla Shores easy to start skimboarding in San Diego (since they are flatter), then upgrade to shore-break terrain when they’re ready
Legend to Skimboarding Spots in San Diego
| Spot | Area | Why It Rocks |
|---|---|---|
| La Jolla Cove | La Jolla | High-tide, low-crowd, fun side waves |
| Marine Street Beach | South La Jolla | Shore-break power, south swell perks |
| Tamarack Beach | Carlsbad | Long stretch, reliable waves, local favorite |
| North Oceanside | Oceanside | Smooth shore-break, locals-only vibe |
| D Street | Encinitas | Reddit-approved mellow waves & good energy |
| The Wall (~Wipeout) | La Jolla | Winter barrels, shore-break practice for pros |
What Makes a Good Spot for Skimboarding?
Whether you are skimboarding in San Diego or another destination…not every beach is skimboard gold—here’s what to look for:
- Shore-Break Waves: You want waves that break right on the sand, not way out in the lineup. This gives you that sweet spot to run, drop, and ride right into a breaking wave.
- Sloped Sand: A gently sloping beach lets your board glide longer before hitting dry sand. Steep drop-offs? Not ideal.
- Wet, Packed Sand: Dry sand = faceplants. Look for areas where the tide leaves a glossy, packed surface—perfect for skim speed.
- No Rocks or Seaweed: Clean runways make for safer (and way more fun) rides.
- Consistent Tides: Most skim spots shine at mid to high tide, so check your tide chart before heading out.
Bottom line: find the right combo of slope, sand, and shore-break, and you’re set for endless slides and stoke. If you are looking for a good beginner skimboard, check out boards from BCS!
Ready for your next skim session? Grab your board, chase that shore-break, and catch some local magic. Share your shots and keep the stoke alive!
