Surfing San Diego in August offers a legendary blend of warm water, reliable swells, and vibrant surf culture. Here’s your ultimate guide to making the most of this epic summer month.
What is it like Surfing San Diego in August?
August is one of the most enjoyable months to surf in San Diego, thanks to warm ocean temperatures, longer daylight hours, and consistent southern hemisphere swells. Here’s what you can expect:
- Water Temps: Ranging from the high 60s to low 70s °F (19–22°C), making it one of the few months you might ditch the wetsuit and paddle out in boardshorts or a spring suit.
- Air temperature: Expect high days around 84 °F and lows near 63 °F, with minimal rain and low humidity.
- Wave Conditions: South swells dominate, often delivering clean, chest-to-head-high surf to breaks like Black’s, Scripps, and Swami’s. Beach breaks such as Pacific Beach and Mission Beach become more beginner-friendly with mellow peaks and soft shoulders.
- Crowds: It’s summer—expect the lineups to be full, especially on weekends. Dawn patrol or sunset sessions are your best bet for fewer crowds and glassier conditions.
- Vibe: The energy is high. Locals, tourists, and traveling surfers fill the beaches. Boardwalks buzz with life, and post-surf taco stands like Taco Surf or Roberto’s are as much a part of the routine as waxing your board.
Pro Tip: If the wind picks up mid-morning (which it often does), head to a more protected break like La Jolla Shores or Point Loma reefs to find cleaner conditions.
Best Waves to Surf San Diego in August
- Scripps – South swells tend to angle nicely into Scripps Pier. This spot also gets nice wind protection so it can be really good here when other breaks are blown out.
- Blacks – Great views, waves and a nudist beach on the North end. Nothing says ‘Hi Summer’ like that!
- Oceanside Harbor – A great spot in far North county that usually has more size than other waves on Summer South swells.
Wrapping up August SD Surf
Surfing San Diego in August is complete with warm water, sunny skies, and consistent swells across iconic breaks. Whether you’re learning at Pacific Beach or chasing barrels at Black’s, this month delivers the perfect blend of surf, sun, and style!
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