The Surf Window

San Onofre

Orange County, USA

Point breakBeginner

Old San Onofre, "San O", is a legendary, mellow right-hand point break beloved by longboarders, old-school Californians, and everyone who wants a taste of 1950s surf culture without the aggression.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

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

Wind

NE

Offshore

Tide

Mid

LowMidHigh

Season

October–March

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Right

Bottom

Sand and rock

Shape

Slow, rolling, forgiving walls, classic nose-riding territory

Length

100–200m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Beginner–Intermediate
  • •Why: The wave is gentle, predictable, and forgiving, almost nobody gets hurt at San O.

Hazards

  • •Rocks on entry and exit at low tide
  • •Large, crowded lineup (hundreds of surfers and longboarders on good days)
  • •Nuclear power plant looming over the beach (decommissioned but visible)

Local Tips

  • •San Onofre surf culture is famously welcoming, locals love sharing the stoke.
  • •Bring a big-volume board (9ft+ longboard) and enjoy the ride.

Location

Map showing the location of San Onofre in Orange County, USA

33.3736, -117.5691