15th Street in Del Mar is a popular surf destination known for its unique setup. Unlike the typical sandy beaches that stretch along the coastline, this spot features a rare reef break that offers a nice relief for surfers looking for something a bit different. It's located in a nice neighborhood, making it pretty convenient to get to, especially since there's a good amount of parking available nearby. You’ll find a grassy park right above the left-hander that’s perfect for chilling out when you’re not in the water.
The waves at 15th Street are primarily a fun left-hand reef break, with an adjacent beach break peak that can get decent when conditions are right. It tends to handle swells from the SouthWest (about 0.6 to 1.8 meters) as well as NorthWest and South swells. The waves can range from 0.6 to 1.8 meters high (2 to 6 feet), making it suitable for surfers of all levels from beginners to experts. The left side offers the best rides, allowing for multiple turns down the line, while the right tends to be shorter and mushy. The spot works best during the winter months and can handle low, mid, and high tides, although dropping tide brings more power and steeper waves.
When the crowds are thick at 15th, you can usually find less populated peaks to the north or south, but make sure the winds are still favorable. The nearby sandbars offer some fun on lighter days, though they struggle with bigger swells or low water levels. As for equipment, it suits a variety of board types like shortboards, fish, longboards, and bodyboards. Just keep in mind that the surf can get pretty mellow or mushy at certain tides, but overall, it’s a solid spot if you're looking to catch some fun waves.
