When you think of San Diego, California, what comes to mind? For many people, it’s the city’s beautiful beaches and amazing surfing!
Consistent waves, beautiful beaches, and year-round surfing opportunities make San Diego a true Surfer’s Paradise.
I’m a surfer myself and I can say that San Diego and surfing just fit together. Any day of the year, I can head out to my local beach, Pacific Beach, or one of the dozens of beaches in the area with surf breaks options for all skill levels, and I know how lucky I am to get to surf in this wonderful city.
Surfer Sculpture at the California Surf Museum
San Diego Surf Culture
In San Diego, surfing is more than a hobby - it’s a lifestyle.
Surfing in San Diego dates back to the early 20th century, when George Freeth came to the area from Hawaii and impressed crowds with his surfing demonstration.
Today, surfing legends, beginners, and everyone in between come from near and far to surf our waves. The culture runs so deep that we wrote an entire article on the surf culture history in San Diego, so if you want to learn more about the roots of surfing in San Diego, we’ve got you covered!
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Three Surfers at Ocean Beach City Beach
Why You Should Surf in San Diego
Surfing runs through the veins of the city! It’s a part of the culture and history. You can just feel the vibe that is that laid back Southern California feel when you visit and I think going surfing is an activity that is very San Diego!
I also know that San Diego has miles of stunning, well-preserved coastline, over 75 beaches, and waves for every skill level. There are surf spots with gentle waves that are well suited for beginners, as well as top surf instructors who can get you on a board for the first time or help you perfect your technique.
If you’re already an advanced surfer, there are also plenty of spots known for their ‘gnarly’ waves that are sure to give you a challenge.
If you’d rather stay out of the water, neighborhoods like Pacific Beach are great places to watch the action from afar while enjoying great food and some of San Diego’s world-famous craft beer.
Surfboards Lined up in a Surf Shop
Renting a Surfboard
Of course, you don’t need to own, or travel with, a board in order to surf here. San Diego offers plenty of locations for renting a board!
Solana Beach Surf Board Rental gives you 24 hours to head to your favorite spot and shred some waves.
Plus, you can choose from a wide range of surf boards to fit your experience and comfort level.
If you’re looking for our advice on the best time of the year to go surfing, the best places to surf, or more on surfboard rentals and lessons, keep reading!
Why We Love the Solana Beach: Full Day Surf Board Rental
Being able to choose from an array of surfboards, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, is tops in our book.
The staff at the shop goes above and beyond, especially for beginner and intermediate surfers.
Don’t know where to go? They’ll give you advice based on the day’s surf conditions!
Surf Lessons Surfboards Lined up on the Sea Wall in Mission Beach
Do More - and Save - With a Go City San Diego Pass
Renting a surfboard, or paddleboard, is really easy when you pick up an All-Inclusive Go City San Diego pass before you arrive.
I recommend my friends and family have a look at the pass if they want to rent gear and or want to visit the city’s most popular museums and attractions like the San Diego Air and Space Museum or San Diego Zoo, both in beautiful Balboa Park, or SeaWorld San Diego in Mission Bay Park.
The pass provides discounts on gear rentals, popular attractions, tours, and more. You can also use our exclusive code, GVSD5OFF, when you check out for a little bonus savings!
Why We Love the All-Inclusive Go City San Diego pass
Go City San Diego delivers discounts to dozens of our favorite San Diego experiences.
It’s really perfect if you want to make the most of your time in the area and save money while doing more. It provides wait free access to popular attractions, like the ones mentioned above plus the Birch Aquarium at Scripps, and even offers a surfboard rental in La Jolla as part of the pass!