Lower Trestles is Southern California’s high-performance playground, delivering ruler-straight rights and playful lefts over a meticulously shaped cobblestone reef.
From the NSSA groms to World Surf League finals, Lowers has hosted every level of competition. The train track walk is a rite of passage for any surfer chasing a perfect point break.
Expect long, perfectly paced walls with steep takeoffs and multiple sections. Priority is determined by patience and cardio more than anything.
Tide insight: Mid tide dropping delivers the cleanest canvas. Low tide can get racy but hollow, while high tide slows the face enough for longer wraps.
Swell outlook: South swells and combo energy are essential. A touch of west fills the bowl and keeps the rights running to the inside.
Wind game plan: Morning offshores or glassy conditions are crucial. Even light onshores add bump noticeable in the face of such a precise wave.
Water temperature watch: Winter lows hover around 58°F, while summer peaks near 72°F. Upwelling events after long south swell lines can drop temps quickly.
Crowd and safety notes: Expect a heavy pack and keep an eye on Crowded, competitive lineup, Submerged cobblestones on the inside, Long walk in and out with limited shade. Rotate respectfully, call your waves, and plan an exit route before paddling out.
Parking and amenities: Park at Cristianitos Road and walk the trail along the train tracks. Bikes or e-bikes cut the commute in half.. Nearby support includes No facilities on the beach, Water refill stations at the trailhead parking lot. Lock in a backup parking option so you can pivot fast when the lot reaches capacity.
Session prep snapshot
Save this checklist before you paddle out—update times refresh hourly so you always see the latest intel.
- Best tide window
- Mid tide dropping delivers the cleanest canvas. Low tide can get racy but hollow, while high tide slows the face enough for longer wraps.
- Swell sweet spot
- South swells and combo energy are essential. A touch of west fills the bowl and keeps the rights running to the inside.
- Wind strategy
- Morning offshores or glassy conditions are crucial. Even light onshores add bump noticeable in the face of such a precise wave.
- Water temperature
- Winter lows hover around 58°F, while summer peaks near 72°F. Upwelling events after long south swell lines can drop temps quickly.
Hazards to watch: Crowded, competitive lineup, Submerged cobblestones on the inside, Long walk in and out with limited shade. Log the session in your Quiver journal to track how these variables impacted your surf.
Lower Trestles FAQs
How long is the walk to Lowers?
Plan for a 15-minute walk from the Cristianitos parking lot. Pack light and bring water for the trek back.
How do I get waves at Lowers?
Be patient, sit wide for insiders, and communicate clearly. Respect the established rotation and you’ll get your turn.
What board works best?
Bring your favorite high-performance shortboard or twin. The wave rewards responsiveness and hold.