PB Point / False Point

If you're looking for consistently good waves, a consistent break and a genuine So-Cal surf experience, head to PB Point, located on the border of PB & La Jolla.
Todd Sarouhan
Some of the links in this article are affiliate links. This means if you make purchases through them, I may be compensated at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own.
Why you'll love this beach
Why you'll love this beach
Enjoy Legit Local SoCal Surfing at PB Point / False Point
PB Point / False Point
Overview
Things to Do
Save on Gear
Popular Activities
Get There & Parking
Featured Activity
Know Before You Go
Stay Nearby
Similar Beaches

Highlights

Things to Do
Tips
How to get there
Parking
Things to Do
Tips
How to get there
Parking

Overview

Going Out for a Surf at  PB PointSurfer Taking An Overhead Wave at  PB Point, Series 3 of 3

Located on the border of La Jolla and Pacific Beach, PB Point - otherwise known as False Point - is a point in San Diego that is just south of Calumet Park. It’s also just north of favored surfing destination, Tourmaline.

PB Point is no doubt a surf spot. Its rocky bottom and fast waves deter swimmers and boogie boarders and instead call to the surfers. However, because the waves are quick, it’s best for those with intermediate to advanced surfing capabilities. On rougher days, even intermediates should stay away.

Because of its rocky shoreline, PB Point is not an ideal beach for lounging. It’s a surf spot only, and while you could roam around with a camera or good book, you may get funny (if not downright hostile) looks from locals. It’s safe to say that if you can surf, try your hand at PB Point. If you can’t, and if you’re expecting your typical vacation beach destination, try a different spot, such as Pacific Beach or Mission Beach.

Things to Do

Kiteboarding
Kiteboarding
Paddle Boarding
Paddle Boarding
Surfing
Surfing

A Local Surf Spot

Great Winter Swell Spot

Tourmaline Surf Park is the more renowned surf spot in the area, but the truth is that the big winter swells come from the north and hit PB Point first. This can mean some decent sized waves coming in at quick speeds.

At every other time of the year, the swells are average-sized — ranging from three to five feet — but they’re consistent. The consistency, not the size, is what makes this a favored surfing destination.

Typically pushed up from the rocky bottom, the swells take good form and consistently break in the same place. For someone new to the area, this could mean exciting surf. For locals, PB Point is more of a practice spot.

Local Tips
Amazing Surf
Once in the water, paddle out straight and then to the north in front of the point, PB point. This way you will avoid the rocks under the water.

No Swell? Explore the Sea Life

When there is no swell, there is no surf. Then, it turns into a great spot for wading and exploring sea life. If you’re lucky, you’ll come across some abalone, sea urchin, chitons and wavy turban. Octopus and sea stars like to hang out in the tide pools, which are worth exploring as well.

Stay at Pacific Terrace Hotel

The Pacific Terrace Hotel is the perfect place to stay at while you surf at PB Point. Its swimming pool has the perfect vantage point to see when PB Point is breaking. If there is no surf then enjoy one of the pools cabanas overlooking the beach!

Surfing is one of Todd's favorite Pacific Beach pastimes. Tour beaches with great surfing conditions like PB Point and Tourmaline Surf Park, and save on surfboard rentals with the Go City San Diego pass.

Save on Tours, Attractions & More

Go Surfing with Go Pass!

La Jolla - Surf Board Rental
La Jolla - Surf Board Rental
La Jolla is home to some of the world's best beaches for surfing, and with your Go Pass, you can enjoy this experience. Whether you are a rookie or a pro, get a full day Surf Board rental. The waters are perfect for those learning.
Buy Now
Local Tips
What activities does the Go City San Diego pass include?

There’s a variety of activities included with the Go City San Diego pass such as: The San Diego Zoo, Safari Park, LEGOLAND, SeaWorld, Hiking Tours, Whale Watching, Museum Tours, Speed Boat Adventures & more!

For the most popular attractions and water-sport rentals as well as the biggest discounts, consider the All-Inclusive Pass.

Use our exclusive discount code GVSD5OFF to save an extra 5%!

How to Get There & Parking

Free Parking
Free Parking
Lot Parking
Lot Parking
Street Parking
Street Parking

Location of PB Point

PB Point is located at the corner of Sea Ridge Drive and Linda Way. You can take La Jolla Boulevard south to right before it hangs a sharp right at Calumet Avenue.

Parking near PB Point

You’ll want to find parking along the street and walk the rest of the way to the beach.

On a calm day, parking is plentiful. However, when the swells are good, you may have to go down a few blocks and walk the rest of the way. You can access the beach by a stairwell, the entrance to which is at Sea Ridge Drive.

Featured Activity

San Diego Harbor Cruise on San Diego Bay at Sunset
San Diego Harbor Cruise
Enjoy this ‘San Diego Top Pick Award’ winner as you set sail on a three level luxury ship providing 360-degree views of San Diego’s scenic beauty. Relax for a 1-2 hour narrated tour, learn about the city from the bay.
Buy Now

Know Before You Go & Tips

No Alcohol
No Alcohol
No Camping
No Camping
No Glass Containers
No Glass Containers
No Motorized Vehicles
No Motorized Vehicles
No Smoking
No Smoking
No Trash Cans
No Trash Cans

Be Aware & Stay Safe

Intermediate to Advanced Surfers

The crowd at PB Point isn’t as friendly as the rest of PB, but it’s not as localized as some spots to the north in La Jolla. Again, the spot is ideal for intermediate to advanced surfers.

Even those who are familiar with the surf need to concentrate to avoid crashing into nearby rocks, so the vibe can be a little tense out on the water. That said, so long as you know what you’re doing and respect surf etiquette, you should be fine.

Locals aren’t so forgiving about their parking though. On a good surf day, you’d be better off parking along the streets or in nearby public parking.

Beware of the Reef

Once you’re in the water, you’ll want to paddle out straight and to the north of the point. Beware that rocks riddle the ground, from the beach to beneath the surface, so you’ll probably want to wear booties.

Giant boulders protrude from the waves, so you’ll need to have firm control of your board and strong steering capabilities. If you don’t, you’ll likely collide with a rock.

No Facilities or Amenities

PB Point does not have amenities. This means you’ll need to bring your own gear for rinsing off. There are no restrooms, water fountains or other facilities to speak of.

PB Point / False Point
is Known For:
Surfing
Surfing
Know This:
Tide Pools
Tide Pools
This Month's Forecast
51°F / 68°F
Sunny in December
Jan
51°F / 67°F
Sunny in January
Feb
53°F / 68°F
Sunny in February
Mar
56°F / 69°F
Sunny in March

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