Tamarack Avenue is a surf spot located in Carlsbad, California, right at the end of Tamarack Avenue, providing easy access to the beach via a parking lot. This area sees a decent mix of surfers, especially during the summer months when many spots in San Diego aren't really working. While the overall stretch of beaches in Carlsbad tends to offer below-average beachbreaks, Tamarack is one of the few spots that can deliver some fun waves, especially with the right conditions.

When it comes to surfing at Tamarack, it's best with a medium tide and south swells less than 6 feet (about 1.8 meters). The breaks can handle various swell sizes, ranging from 1 foot (0.3 meters) to 6 feet, making it suitable for beginners and intermediates alike. The spot mainly works with south and southwest swells, while northwest swells can also provide some action. The takeoff zone is between the two jetties, featuring both lefts and rights. On lower tides, the right side of the break, which forms off the south jetty, can offer some lines to ride. The waves generally break over a mix of sand and rocks, and you can catch waves on shortboards, funboards, fish, or even longboards. The preferred wind direction is northeast, which helps clean up the surf.

Accessing Tamarack is straightforward; just head down Tamarack Avenue to the beach. Be ready for varying crowd conditions, ranging from mellow to somewhat busy, depending on the day. With camping available nearby and a decent right sandbar down by the Warm Water Jetty, Tamarack Avenue serves as a decent spot for a surf session when you’re in Carlsbad.