San Diego is a great surf spot located in a friendly coastal area. It's known for its beachbreak peaks that are often uncrowded, giving surfers a chance to catch some waves without the typical crowds found elsewhere. The access points can be a bit tricky to navigate, but once you're in, you'll find various peaks to meet your surfing needs. The right point at the mouth of the bay and a few options forming off the rocks to the east provide decent waves for those looking to enjoy a session.

The best time to surf in San Diego is when there's a southeast swell. It handles swell sizes of around 2 feet (0.6 meters), which is perfect for beginners looking to ride right and left beach breaks. The waves usually break over sand, offering a smooth ride for those just getting into surfing. For optimal conditions, northwest winds are preferable, allowing for cleaner waves. Tides can vary, but low, mid, and high tides all offer decent opportunities to catch some waves, making it versatile enough for different surfers’ preferences.

If you’re planning to surf here, keep in mind that the beaches can deliver average to good sessions depending on the swell. It’s great for beginners wanting to practice, but sometimes you might encounter inconsistent days. Overall, San Diego is a spot that can cater to different abilities and offers a variety of wave directions to explore.