San Diego Visitors Guide - Fall 2016/Winter 2017

Rob Machado is an SDTA Ambassador, and your Guide to the Good Stuff.

Top Surf Spots
Whether you are a seasoned pro or just learning to pop
up, San Diego is blessed with world-famous breaks for
every level. (You’ll just a need a wetsuit during winter and
spring!) Check out these beautiful beaches and their waves.

LA JOLLA SHORES

A local favorite, this wide and expansive beach is flanked by grassy Kellogg Park and a boardwalk. Somewhat protected from the prevailing southwest wind, it’s a safe, gentle spot to learn surfing. A large lot with free parking makes it easily accessible, too.

DEL MAR

Reliable waves and good exposure to all swell directions make this sandy stretch popular with surfers of all skill levels. Multiple surf breaks stretching down the coast encourage the crowd to spread out, so you’ll have space to call your own. For some of the best breaks, walk straight out to the ocean from the end of 19th, 23rd or 25th Street.

CARDIFF REEF

Home to San Diego’s most famous surfer, Rob Machado, Cardiff boasts longboarders, stand-up paddlers and surfers riding every kind of board made from the ’60s to the present day. Check out the infamous “Cardiff Kook” statue, often dressed in costume or decorated for an occasion.

BLACK’S BEACH

A mecca for advanced surfers seeking the best waves off San
Diego’s coast, this iconic spot is also known as San Diego’s
unofficial “clothing optional” beach, so brace yourself for some
birthday suit sightings. The most popular route to the beach is
down the bluffs at Torrey Pines Gliderport. It’s a steep climb and
trails can be unsteady, so be cautious.

SURF’S UP

WANNA LEARN
TO HANG TEN?
Surfari Surf School
Book a private or group lesson at this
surf shop in Mission Beach, or sign up
for an intensive five-day surf camp.
The school is close to the shoreline and
provides the wetsuit and equipment.
3740 Mission Blvd., Mission Beach

Surf Diva

Started by twin sisters Izzy and Coco Tihanyi, Surf Diva is the first all-girls surf school in the country. Offering lessons, camps and good times in the waves off La Jolla Shores, Surf Diva is your go-to spot for learning to walk on water.

2160 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla surf shop in Mission Beach, or sign up for an intensive five-day surf camp. The school is close to the shoreline and provides the wetsuit and equipment.