For many local surfers, September is the golden month in Southern California. The crowds thin out after summer, the ocean stays warm, and the surf gets more consistent. If you’ve been waiting for prime conditions, surfing San Diego in September might just be your best bet all year.
What is it like Surfing San Diego in September?
September in San Diego is often considered the perfect blend of summer warmth and early fall swell power. Here’s what makes it special:
- Swell: The month sees a reliable mix of long-period south swells from the Southern Hemisphere and early-season northwest swells. This combo lights up both beach breaks and reef breaks, with wave heights often in the chest- to head-high range and occasional bigger pulses.
- Wind: Mornings are typically clean with light offshore or calm winds, perfect for glassy faces. In fact, September + October are your best bet for getting Santa Ana offshore winds. Onshore winds can kick in midday, but September tends to see fewer blown-out afternoons than midsummer.
- Weather: Air temperatures average between 70–80°F (21–27°C) during the day, with warm, sunny skies dominating. Water temperatures stay pleasant—usually between 68–72°F (20–22°C)—meaning you can often surf in boardshorts or a thin spring suit well into the month.
- Vibe: The summer tourist crowds fade after Labor Day, giving locals and dedicated visitors more space in the lineup. You still get long days, mellow sunsets, and a relaxed end-of-summer energy. This time of year is what we often refer to as Local’s Summer!
Best Spots to Surf San Diego in September
While almost every break benefits from September’s swell patterns, the combo spots stand out. Beach breaks that are exposed a variety of swell direction typically get nice, crossed up peaks. Here are a few of my favorites through September.
- Mission Beach
- Pacific Beach – While often hit or miss most of the year; I’ve had some really good sessions directly off Crystal Pier or in front of Law Street during a NW/SW swell mix.
- Oceanside Pier
- Del Mar 25th Street
- Scripps
- Blacks
Final Call
Surfing San Diego in September is about warm water, cleaner conditions, and the magic of transitioning into the fall surf season. With a mix of swell directions and fewer people in the lineup, it’s the perfect time to score fun, uncrowded waves.
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