Overview
San Onofre State Beach is a famous, mushy longboard wave and one of the true seedbeds of California beach culture, having hosted some of the state's earliest surfing contests and events. It breaks over boulders and sand as a reef setup that peels both left and right, with a mellow, family-friendly feel that makes it a genuinely good place to learn. Old Man's is the premier cobblestone reef peak here, while just to the north The Point runs predominantly as a righthander with the occasional good left.
When It Works
San Onofre pulls in swell from south to west (S-W) and stays rideable across a wide band of size, working from 0.3 m / 1 ft to 2.4 m / 8 ft. Old Man's comes into its own in summer, when the cobblestone peak is at its best.
Wind and Tide
Look for a northeast (NE) offshore wind to clean things up. The spot works through low, mid and high tide, with a rising tide generally the better call. Old Man's in particular tends to favor the lower end of the tide during its summer season.
Local Tips
This is beginner terrain at heart, with a relaxed, mellow family-beach atmosphere. Expect a busy lineup when it works, especially through summer and on weekends.
Access
The park entrance is off Basilone Road. In summer and at weekends, lines for parking form from first light, so arrive early. If you plan to come often, ask about a yearly pass, which covers both San Onofre and nearby Trails.
