The Surf Window

Pacific Beach

San Diego, USA

Beach breakBeginner

PB is San Diego's quintessential beach break, lively, accessible, and always buzzing with surfers of every level along a long stretch of open sand backed by the city's most energetic beach neighbourhood.

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

Soft, rolling beach break, fun and forgiving, rarely powerful

Length

20–60m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Beginner
  • •Why: The waves are gentle, the water is relatively warm for San Diego, and the beach is heavily staffed with lifeguards.

Hazards

  • •Very crowded, collision risk is significant near the Crystal Pier
  • •Shore pound on bigger swells
  • •Boogie boarders and swimmers sharing the lineup

Local Tips

  • •Crystal Pier is the landmark, the waves directly alongside the pier are slightly better shaped than the open beach.
  • •Summer is great for lessons; winter brings slightly more punch for intermediates.

Location

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

32.7970, -117.2596