The Surf Window

Huntington Beach

Orange County, USA

Beach breakIntermediate

Surf City USA, Huntington Beach Pier is one of America's most iconic surf locations, hosting the annual US Open and the archetypal Southern California beach break experience.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

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

Wind

NE

Offshore

Tide

Any

LowMidHigh

Season

October–March

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Both

Bottom

Sand

Shape

Consistent, peaky beach break, punchy peaks on both sides of the pier, can be excellent in the right conditions

Length

40–100m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Intermediate
  • •Why: The waves are manageable but the pier pillars, crowds, and rips require awareness and ocean experience.

Hazards

  • •Pier pilings, getting caught inside near the structure is dangerous
  • •Very heavy crowds, especially during the US Open
  • •Strong rips adjacent to the pier

Local Tips

  • •The south side of the pier tends to be more consistent and longer-breaking than the north.
  • •Arrive at sunrise to beat the crowd, by 10am this beach can have hundreds of surfers.

Location

Map showing the location of Huntington Beach in Orange County, USA

33.6485, -117.9932