Overview
15th Street is a left-hand reef in Del Mar, a rare patch of rock ledge along a coastline made up of miles of beachbreak. It's the most popular and consistent break in town, with a fun, mellow character rather than anything heavy. The left peels along the edge of the reef and can line up for three or four turns, with an occasional shorter right off the peak.
When It Works
The reef pulls in swell from south through west-southwest to northwest, and it's best on a southwest swell. It's usable from 0.3 m / 1 ft to 2.4 m / 8 ft. Because the reef pokes out far enough to catch south swells that slide past much of San Diego, it holds surf year-round, though it's noticeably more consistent through the winter. On a good day the left lines up and races down the reef, breaking a fair way from shore.
Wind and Tide
Look for an offshore wind from the east. The reef holds its shape better than the neighboring beaches thanks to the rock bottom and a bit of kelp, so it doesn't blow out as easily. It works through most of the tide, with a rising tide the better call. The wave gets steeper and more powerful as the tide drops, while higher tides can leave a reform to catch on the inside.
Local Tips
Everything from shortboards and fish to funboards, longboards, bodyboards and skimboards works here, and it suits surfers from first-timers to experts. The lineup stays fairly quiet and can feel a little reserved. If it's crowded, you can usually find a peak to yourself along the beachbreak to the north or south. Steer clear of the water near the rivermouth after heavy rain.
Access
Getting in is simple: walk through the grassy clifftop park and down the path to the sand. There are restrooms, showers, a lifeguard and a surf shop nearby. Park in the pay lot across the street, grab roadside parking, or head about 100 yards north to park for free in the neighborhood.
