Nestled in the heart of San Clemente, Southern Los Angeles, California, lies Endless Summer Surf Camp—a haven for surf enthusiasts seeking a diverse range of waves. From the beginner-friendly shores of San Onofre Beach to the world-class point break at Trestles, San Clemente caters to all surfing preferences. As the inaugural surf school officially recognized by Surfing America, the US Council for Surf Sport, Endless Summer Surf Camp stands as a pioneer in surf education. Their comprehensive surf progra
Surf Camps in San Clemente
San Clemente is a classic California beach town with a laid-back surf scene. It's not as flashy as some other surf towns, but it's got a genuine, old-school feel that's hard to beat. You'll find a mix of locals who have been surfing these breaks thei
The Vibe
San Clemente is a classic California beach town with a laid-back surf scene. It's not as flashy as some other surf towns, but it's got a genuine, old-school feel that's hard to beat. You'll find a mix of locals who have been surfing these breaks their whole lives and newcomers who are just discovering the magic of this place. The town itself is full of surf shops, casual eateries, and a general feeling of stoke that's contagious.
The Waves
San Clemente is blessed with a variety of waves that work for all skill levels. For beginners, San Onofre (or 'San O' as the locals call it) is a dream. The long, gentle waves are perfect for learning and the vibe is super friendly. For more experienced surfers, Trestles is the main event. It's a world-class wave that hosts the WSL Finals, so you know it's legit. There are also a bunch of other breaks in between, from the fun, rippable waves at T-Street to the more challenging conditions at Lowers.
Best Time to Surf
You can surf in San Clemente year-round, but the best time to go is in the summer and fall. That's when the south swells are most consistent, and the water is warm enough to trunk it. Winter can also be good, with bigger swells and fewer crowds, but you'll definitely need a wetsuit.
What Makes It Unique
What makes San Clemente so special is the variety of waves and the authentic surf culture. It's a place where you can find a wave to yourself if you're willing to look, or you can paddle out at a world-class break and surf with the pros. It's a town that's built around surfing, and you can feel that in the air. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, San Clemente has something for everyone.
Summer and fall are the best times to surf in San Clemente. These seasons bring the most reliable south and southwest swells. However, San Clemente offers year-round surfing opportunities. Winter has bigger swells for more experienced surfers, while spring offers a mix of conditions. For beginners, the gentle waves of summer at spots like San Onofre are ideal.
San Clemente has a wide variety of surf breaks suitable for all skill levels. Beginners can enjoy the gentle, rolling waves at San Onofre, which is known for its friendly and forgiving conditions. Intermediate surfers can find fun waves at T-Street and Middles. Advanced surfers can challenge themselves at world-class breaks like Lower Trestles, which is home to the Rip Curl WSL Finals.
The water temperature in San Clemente varies throughout the year. In the summer months (June-September), the water is warmest, typically ranging from 64-72°F (18-22°C). In the winter (December-March), the water is colder, ranging from 57-62°F (14-17°C). A wetsuit is recommended year-round, with a 3/2mm full suit being suitable for most of the year and a 4/3mm full suit for the colder winter months.
For your surf trip to San Clemente, you'll want to pack your surfboard and a wetsuit (a 3/2mm for summer/fall and a 4/3mm for winter/spring). Other essentials include swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. It's also a good idea to bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. For exploring the town, pack comfortable walking shoes and casual clothing. You can find more packing tips on our blog.
San Clemente has a relaxed, beach-town culture with a strong surfing heritage. You can immerse yourself in the local surf scene by visiting the Surfing Heritage and Culture Center (SHACC). The town offers a variety of local eateries, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. You can enjoy fresh seafood and other local favorites. For a taste of the local nightlife, there are several pubs and bars with live music.
The cost of a surf trip to San Clemente can vary depending on your accommodation, dining choices, and activities. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels like the House of Trestles to more luxurious hotels. You can save money by cooking your own meals or eating at casual cafes. Many of the best activities, like surfing and enjoying the beaches, are free. You can find more budget travel tips on our blog.
San Clemente is a relatively safe place to surf. Most of the main surf breaks are patrolled by lifeguards, especially during the summer months. However, it's always important to be aware of your surroundings and surf within your limits. Be mindful of rocks, rip currents, and other surfers. It's also a good idea to check the surf forecast and conditions before you go out. You can find more surf safety tips on our blog.
Besides surfing, there are many other things to see and do in and around San Clemente. You can explore the San Clemente Pier, visit the Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens, or hike the trails at San Clemente State Beach. The town is also a short drive from other popular Southern California destinations like Dana Point, Laguna Beach, and San Diego. You can find more information about nearby attractions on our San Clemente destination page.
There are several surf shops in San Clemente that offer surfboard rentals. You can find a variety of boards to suit your skill level and the conditions. Some shops also offer wetsuit rentals. For a convenient option, there is a shop across from the San Clemente Pier that rents foam boards for the day. You can find a list of local surf shops on our San Clemente destination page.
San Clemente is home to a variety of world-class surf spots. For beginners, San Onofre is the perfect place to start with its gentle, long-rolling waves. T-Street is a great spot for all levels, offering a mix of reef and beach breaks. For more advanced surfers, Lower Trestles is a must-surf spot, known for its high-performance waves and as the location of the Rip Curl WSL Finals. Other popular spots include Middles, Cottons Point, and the San Clemente Pier.