San Diego’s best beginner spot ever: Tourmaline

Let’s go San Diego and catch some waves! But as a beginner, where to go, where to go…Tourmaline is the the spotlight today.

Tourmaline or Tourmaline Surfing Park is truly the best surf spot in San Diego for beginners. End of. Also, because it’s so slooooow, it’s a great destination for longboarders.

Tourmaline is tucked between Pacific Beach and La Jolla, on the northern edge of Pacific Beach. And it has something that very few other popular breaks offer, free lot parking!

The surf
Tourmaline is a soft, sandy-bottom beach break with reef influence (which is why some people think it’s actually a reef break) and long, rolling waves—perfect for longboarding and learning. It faces west/northwest, making it super consistent year-round, though it shines brightest with a small to medium southwest swell.

The waves here are mellow and forgiving—ideal for beginners. But it does get busy!

Water quality
Usually good, though after heavy rain, give it 72 hours before paddling out (hello urban runoff). Otherwise, the water’s clean and clear.

Wardrobe
Water temps range from chilly to boardshort-worthy, depending on the season:

• Winter (Dec–Feb): 56–60°F (13–15°C) — 4/3 or 3/2 wetsuit
  
• Spring (Mar–May): 58–62°F (14–16°C) — 3/2 fullsuit
  
• Summer (Jun–Aug): 64–70°F (18–21°C) — springsuit or surf bikini/boardies + rashie
  
• Autumn (Sep–Nov): 62–68°F (17–20°C) — 3/2 or shorty depending on the day

☀️ Best time for beginners to go
Late spring through early fall (May–October) is your sweet spot: smaller swells, warmer water, and plenty of daylight.

⚠️ Hazards
Tourmaline is one of the least intimidating surf spots in San Diego, but still:

• Crowds: It’s popular. Expect a packed lineup on sunny weekends—but the vibe is more “smile and nod” than “fight for every wave.”
  
• Rocks: There are some reefy spots, especially at lower tides. Ask a local or just stay center peak where it’s all sand.
  
• Surfers on bigger boards: Watch out for boards with a lot of momentum. Everyone’s chill, but stay alert.

Rentals + lessons
Tourmaline doesn’t have rentals on-site, but you’re just minutes from Pacific Beach where you’ll find plenty of surf shops.

When you’re not surfing

• Chill on the bluff and watch the sunset with locals and their dogs.
  
• Walk to the nearby cafés and juice bars on Mission Blvd.
  
• Head to the Crystal Pier for classic San Diego views.
  
• Explore La Jolla tide pools or visit the sea lions at the Cove.

Solo friendly?
Very. Tourmaline is one of the safest and most welcoming surf breaks in SoCal. You’ll meet friendly locals in the lot or lineup, and the beach itself is a great place to hang if you’re solo-traveling with a board and a dream.

Author: The Wipeout Weekly team