The Surf Window

Blacks Beach

San Diego, USA

Reef breakAdvanced

Beneath La Jolla's clifftops and accessible only by a steep, unofficial trail, Blacks Beach is a secluded clothing-optional cove with quality reef breaks and a fiercely independent spirit.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)
Size3-8ft

Wind

NE

Offshore

Tide

Mid to high

LowMidHigh

Season

October–March

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Both

Bottom

Reef and sand

Shape

Hollow, punchy peaks that break faster and harder than their appearance suggests

Length

40–100m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Advanced
  • •Why: The hike down is steep (unofficial trail), the reef is demanding, and the cold upwelling makes conditions challenging.

Hazards

  • •Steep, crumbly cliff trail, injuries happen on the access path
  • •Reef and rocks throughout
  • •Cold water upwelling (uncomfortably cold even by SoCal standards)
  • •Clothing-optional beach culture may be unfamiliar to some visitors

Local Tips

  • •The reward for the walk is relative solitude, Blacks never gets the crowds of nearby La Jolla breaks.
  • •Time the hike for around mid-tide rising to avoid getting trapped by surf on the narrow beach.

Location

Map showing the location of Blacks Beach in San Diego, USA

32.8887, -117.2575