The 5 Best Places to Surf and Camp in CA
Filipe Toledo x altCamp (Photo by Sam Kim).
The combination of surfing and camping can't get you much closer to living the California dream. With the sun shining and dozens of world-class surf spots up and down the coast, California is the ideal candidate for any surf trip. Except for only a few small stretches of coastline, nearly any beach in California is reachable in our vans.
1. San Elijo State Beach
San Elijo State Beach is a family-friendly spot for beginner and intermediate surfers in the quaint surf town of Encinitas. This campground offers plenty of wave conditions year around and easy beach access. The beach provides a variety of camping options, from oceanfront bluff sites to group campsites for both car camping and tent camping. As with most California state beaches, there are fire pits, picnic tables, restrooms, and hot showers. San Elijo is one of our local favorites, but it books fast, so be sure to reserve a spot well in advance or try your luck the morning of for a last-minute cancellation.
2. El Capitan State Beach
El Capitan State Beach is located in Santa Barbara County, about 15 miles north of downtown Santa Barbara. There are a few places to surf in the surrounding area, but the closest is a short walk from the campground. This beach is a rocky right-hand point break known for its excellent wave conditions for intermediate to advanced surfers. Here, you'll find a variety of camping options from traditional campsites to yurts and cabins. After surfing, rent a bike, enjoy the sunset, then cozy up near a fire pit. El Capitan is full of adventure.
3. Jalama Beach
Jalama Beach is located in Santa Barbara County, about 50 miles northwest of downtown Santa Barbara. If the drive through rolling green hills leading to panoramic ocean views doesn't inspire you, we don't know what will. A few spots up and down this stretch of beach offer well-shaped waves, popular among beginner and advanced surfers. Jalama has it all-- great waves, a playground for kids, a restaurant with a killer burger, and campgrounds with all the amenities you would want. This spot is unmatched, in our opinion.
4. Manresa State Beach
Head further north, and you'll run into Manresa State Beach. Located in Santa Cruz County, about 15 miles south of Santa Cruz, this beach is known for its long, rolling waves and is a hot spot for intermediate and advanced surfers. With its proximity to Santa Cruz, a staple California surf town, plenty of post-surf entertainment is on offer. Like most state beaches, Manresa has various campsites situated in the classic coastal California landscape with towering oak trees, native plants, and breathtaking ocean views. The essential campground amenities are covered here with fire pits, picnic tables, and restrooms.
5. Half Moon Bay State Beach
Just up Highway 1 from Santa Cruz is Half Moon Bay State Beach. This beach is located in San Mateo County, about 30 miles south of San Francisco. Although the waves in the area can be mellow at times, don't be fooled, this place can pack a punch when swell arrives. There is plenty of opportunity to score here, but the weather conditions can change quickly, so keep an eye on the forecast. Half Moon Bay State Park offers classic beachfront camping that will not disappoint.
We cannot state enough that safety should always be the top priority. Check conditions before heading out, and always be mindful of the ocean's powerful currents and waves. Although surfing one of these spots alone sounds like the dream, we recommend using the buddy system. Despite California's warm weather, the water can get quite cold in the winter, and hypothermia is possible. So be sure to wear a wetsuit to stay warm and know your limits before paddling out. As always, follow the beach's rules and regulations and be respectful of the beautiful coastline.