Overview
Trestles - Lowers is the marquee cobblestone reef peak of Southern California, an A-frame that peels both ways over a bottom of boulders and sand. The rights run long, fast and bowling, while the lefts can turn hollow and zippering. It only closes out on the rarest swells, and it has earned a reputation as the benchmark for rippable cobblestone waves.
When It Works
Lowers draws swell from south to west (S-W) and comes alive with any south in the water, with southwest (SW) swell the best match. It works from 0.3 m / 1 ft to 3.7 m / 12 ft, roughly shoulder-high up to double-overhead. The wave is at its best from spring through autumn, though there are rideable days year-round.
Wind and Tide
Look for a northeast (NE) offshore wind, since a puff of south wind will shut the place down fast. It can work through most of the tide, from low to high, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
Bring a shortboard or a fish, and expect a wave that suits intermediate to expert surfers. The lineup is very busy, often a genuine zoo and crowded even at night, but the vibe stays mostly friendly. Wrangle one to yourself and you are in for one of the best rides SoCal offers.
Access
Lowers sits within San Onofre State Park. Park off the Cristianitos Road exit, near the Carl's Jr. on El Camino, then walk or bike the paved path that ducks under the railway trestle and out onto the beach. Keep an eye out for car and backpack break-ins at the lot, speeding trains on the trestle, and rattlesnakes in the area after rain.
