Surfing
Whether you’re getting on a board for the first time or you’re a seasoned rider searching for LA’s best breaks, there’s something for everyone. Beginners can learn how to surf with mellow, consistent waves, while experts can head toward the big stuff. No matter what level you’re at, you’ll want to check out these legendary LA surfing spots and dive into surf culture USA.
Beaches for Beginners
Venice Beach
The crowd here is known to be a little quirky, but on the other hand, the waves at Venice Beach offer mellow rides that are perfect for beginners. Plus, there’s no better place to relax after surfing than Venice’s famous boardwalk. 3100 to 2700 Ocean Front Walk, Venice
Zuma Beach
Zuma Beach sits at the northern end of Malibu and stretches nearly two miles. Expect clear waters, significant waves and a local crowd. 3000 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu
Topanga Beach
For adventurous novices, the swells at Topanga Beach are a little easier to drop into and perfect for the beginner’s long board. The only catch: conditions are so ideal you might have to compete with plenty of good surfers for waves. 18700 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu
Beaches for Seasoned Riders
Malibu Beach (Surfrider Beach)
How can anyone talk about surfing in LA without talking about Malibu? The iconic Surfrider Beach is practically where LA surfing culture was born. Think long, lazy point breaks and ideal winds. It’s the beach for those who say they’re surfers but want to prove it. Make these waves and you’ve made a point that you’re a pro. 23050 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu
Manhattan Beach
One of the best beaches for winter riding, Manhattan Beach takes the cake for large surfs (and waves with fast closeouts). Expect big waves and ideal opportunities to practice your aerials. 400-500 The Strand, Manhattan Beach
Hermosa Beach
One of LA’s hippest beaches, Hermosa Beach boasts some of the area’s best waves, though at times the water can be colder than you’d expect for California weather (consider a wetsuit). The break is best during low tide and during the fall and winter. Hermosa Avenue and 33rd Street, Hermosa Beach
Source: discoverlosangeles.com
Surf Shops
Surf Concepts
2001 North Sepulveda Boulevard,
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
310-545-7397
El Porto Surfboards
3804 Highland Avenue,
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
310-545-9626
Momentum Surfboards
Beach Front,
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
310) 824-3434
Becker Surfboards
301 Pier Avenue,
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
(310) 372-6419
Dive N’ Surf Inc
504 North Broadway,
Redondo Beach, CA
310) 372-8423
Surf Spyder Skate
2461 Pacific Coast Highway,
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
(310) 374-8276
Tyler Surfboards
201 West Grand Avenue,
El Segundo, CA 90245
(310) 322-6861
