Burn Out, also known as Torrance Beach or R.A.T. Beach, is a sand-bottom beachbreak at the south end of Torrance County Beach, with peaks that mostly favor rights. When the beachbreak to the north gets too big, R.A.T. Beach often stays surfable, so it makes a handy fallback on larger days.
When It Works
The break picks up swell from southwest through northwest (SW-NW), with west swell the best match, and it really comes alive on peaky west-northwest pulses. It's consistent and ridden regularly, with summer the busiest stretch. It works from 0.3 m / 1 ft to 1.8 m / 6 ft.
Wind and Tide
Look for an east offshore wind. It can work across low, mid, and high tide, but a rising tide is the better call, and higher tides tend to bring the cleaner shape. The wave gets hollow on the outgoing tide, and rip currents can be strong, so keep an eye on the water movement.
Local Tips
Expect a moderately busy lineup when it's working.
Access
Get in through Torrance County Beach, along Paseo de la Playa in Torrance.
