Beginner Surf Spots in La Jolla
La Jolla, California · 2 beginner-friendly breaks
Great for Beginners Today
1.1 ft · 10 mph sw · 69°F
Based on conditions at Scripps
Right Now at Scripps
1.1 ft
Ideal for learning
10 mph sw
Moderate chop
69°F
Warm
Rising (0.5 ft)
Rising
Moderate
Moderate
Decent conditions – worth a paddle if you’re keen
Best Beginner Breaks in La Jolla
Scripps Pier is one of the most beginner-friendly surf spots in La Jolla. The sandy bottom, consistent small waves, and relatively low crowd density make it an ideal learning environment. The pier provides a visual reference point and creates a slight wind buffer on the south side. It is a step up from the gentle rollers at La Jolla Shores, offering slightly more shape and push.
Why beginners love it:
- ✓Sandy bottom with a gradual slope — wipeouts land you in soft sand, not reef
- ✓The pier creates a wind shadow and a defined reference point for positioning in the lineup
- ✓Consistent small waves in the waist-to-chest range that are perfect for learning fundamentals
- ✓Mellower crowd than La Jolla Shores with a mix of students, longboarders, and beginners
La Jolla Shores is widely considered the best beginner beach in San Diego. The waves here are consistently gentle thanks to the offshore La Jolla Canyon, which filters out larger swells.
Why beginners love it:
- ✓Gentle, rolling waves perfect for learning
- ✓Wide sandy beach with plenty of space
- ✓Lifeguards on duty year-round
- ✓Protected from harsh swells by offshore canyon
Best Months for Beginner Surfing
Spring
DecentMar-May
Mixed 2-6 ft waves — look for calmer days. 57-60°F water, 3/2mm recommended.
Summer
DecentJun-Aug
Mixed 2-6 ft waves — look for calmer days. 63-68°F water, spring suit recommended.
Fall
DecentSep-Nov
Mixed 3-8 ft waves — look for calmer days. 62-68°F water, 3/2mm recommended.
Winter
DecentDec-Feb
Mixed 4-10 ft waves — look for calmer days. 56-58°F water, 4/3mm recommended.
Safety Tips for La Jolla
Rip Currents
Look for channels of darker, choppy water. If caught, swim parallel to shore - never fight the current.
Marine Life
Shuffle your feet when entering shallow water to avoid stingrays, especially in summer months.
Rocks & Reef
Stick to sandy beach breaks as a beginner. Check with locals or lifeguards about underwater hazards.
Etiquette
Stay on the inside as a beginner. Don't paddle into the lineup. Give right of way to surfers already riding.
Gear & Lessons
Board Guide
- Soft-top foam board, 8-9 ft for adults
- 7-8 ft for teens and smaller adults
- Avoid fiberglass boards until you can consistently pop up
Wetsuit Guide
- Check the water temperature above for today's recommendation
- Boardshorts/bikini for water above 70°F
- 3/2mm fullsuit for water below 60°F
Recent Beginner Sessions
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Frequently Asked Questions
About surfing in La Jolla
- 1-3 foot waves are ideal for beginners in La Jolla. Most beginner spots here consistently have these conditions, especially during summer months.
- It depends on the season. Water temperatures in La Jolla range throughout the year. Check the current conditions above for today's water temperature and wetsuit recommendation.
- La Jolla has multiple surf schools operating at beginner-friendly beaches. Look for schools near the top-rated beginner spots listed above.
- Summer typically offers the most beginner-friendly conditions in La Jolla with smaller, cleaner waves and warmer water. Spring and fall can also be good on smaller swell days.
- Start with a soft-top foam board, 8-9 feet long for adults. These boards provide maximum stability and are forgiving for learning. Most rental shops near La Jolla beaches carry them.
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