Beginner Surf Spots in Santa Monica
Santa Monica, California · 2 beginner-friendly breaks
Great for Beginners Today
0.6 ft · 7 mph wsw · 66°F
Based on conditions at Santa Monica Beach
Right Now at Santa Monica Beach
0.6 ft
Ideal for learning
7 mph wsw
Clean conditions
66°F
Warm
Falling (0 ft)
Falling
Moderate
Moderate
Decent conditions – worth a paddle if you’re keen
Best Beginner Breaks in Santa Monica
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 Santa Monica
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 Santa Monica
- 1-3 foot waves are ideal for beginners in Santa Monica. Most beginner spots here consistently have these conditions, especially during summer months.
- It depends on the season. Water temperatures in Santa Monica range throughout the year. Check the current conditions above for today's water temperature and wetsuit recommendation.
- Santa Monica 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 Santa Monica 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 Santa Monica beaches carry them.
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