Top 10 Surfing Campsites on the West Coast In 2024

The West Coast of the United States is a surfer’s paradise, offering an array of campsites that combine the thrill of surfing with the serenity of camping. This comprehensive guide explores the top 10 surfing campsites along the West Coast, providing surf and RV enthusiasts with the perfect blend of wave action and natural beauty.

1. Malibu Lagoon State Beach, California: A Surfer’s Dream

Location: Nestled at the foot of the Santa Monica Mountains, Malibu Lagoon State Beach is not just a beach but an iconic surfing destination on the West Coast. Its geographical position at the confluence of Malibu Creek and the Pacific Ocean creates a unique marine ecosystem and exceptional wave conditions.

Surfing Features: The Perfect Wave

• Renowned Right-Hand Break: The beach is celebrated for its perfect right-hand break, offering long and smooth rides for surfers. This break is a result of the unique underwater topography, which includes a mix of sandbars and rocky bottoms.
• Surfing for All Levels: While ideal for intermediate and advanced surfers, Malibu Lagoon also offers gentler waves near the pier for beginners.
• Optimal Conditions: The best time to surf here is from April to October, with the peak surfing season in late summer when the swells are consistent, and the water temperature is comfortable.

Camping and Amenities: Comfort and Convenience

• Beachside Camping Spots: Although direct camping on the beach isn’t allowed, there are nearby campgrounds that offer easy access to the beach. These include the Malibu RV Park and Leo Carrillo State Park, both offering spectacular ocean views and complete camping facilities.
• Amenities for Convenience: The beach area is equipped with basic amenities like restrooms, showers, and a snack bar. Moreover, it’s a stone’s throw away from Malibu’s vibrant city center, offering a plethora of dining and entertainment options.

2. San Onofre State Beach, California: Historic Surfing Grounds

Location: Situated at the edge of San Clemente, California, San Onofre State Beach is a sprawling coastal park that’s steeped in surfing history. This beach has been a beloved spot for Southern California surfers since the 1930s, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and wave-rich waters.

Surfing Features: Waves for Everyone

• Consistent Waves for All Skills: San Onofre is known for its consistent waves that cater to surfers of all skill levels. The waves here are generally more forgiving, making it an ideal spot for beginners and longboarders.
• Trestles – The World-Class Surf Spot: The beach is home to the famous Trestles surf break, a world-renowned spot that attracts professional surfers and hosts prestigious surfing competitions.
• Variety of Breaks: Apart from Trestles, San Onofre features several other breaks like Church, Surf Beach, and The Point, each offering a different surfing experience.

Camping and Facilities: Comfort Amidst Nature

• Camping Options: San Onofre offers over 300 campsites with breathtaking ocean views. These sites accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs, providing a range of camping experiences.
• Modern Amenities: The campgrounds are equipped with hot showers, picnic areas, and fire pits, ensuring a comfortable stay.
• Access to Outdoor Activities: Besides surfing, the area is great for hiking, fishing, and exploring the rich flora and fauna.

3. Rincon Point, California: The Queen of the Coast

Location: Rincon Point, located near Carpinteria in California, is affectionately known as “The Queen of the Coast.” This legendary surf spot sits at the convergence of the Santa Barbara and Ventura counties, offering some of the best right-hand waves in the world.

Surfing Features: A Surfer’s Paradise

• Renowned Right-Hand Break: Rincon Point’s claim to fame is its impeccable right-hand break, which provides long, smooth rides. This break is ideal for surfers who appreciate a challenging, consistent wave.
• Winter Swells for Experienced Surfers: The spot truly comes alive during the winter months when powerful swells from the Pacific create optimal surfing conditions, attracting surfers from across the globe.
• Three Distinct Sections: Rincon is divided into three sections – The Cove, Rivermouth, and Indicator. Each offers a different experience, from challenging barrels at Rivermouth to long rides in The Cove.

Camping and Local Amenities: Embracing the Surf Lifestyle

• Camping Near the Waves: While direct beach camping isn’t available at Rincon Point, nearby Carpinteria offers several camping options, including the Carpinteria State Beach campgrounds.
• Facilities for Comfort: These camping sites provide essential amenities like restrooms, showers, and picnic areas, ensuring a comfortable stay for surfers and visitors.

4. Steamer Lane, California: A Legendary Surf Spot

Location: Steamer Lane, located in Santa Cruz, California, is not just a surf spot; it’s an emblem of surfing heritage on the West Coast. This renowned location, situated near the Santa Cruz Lighthouse, offers some of the most spectacular wave conditions along the Pacific coastline.

Surfing Features: A Challenge for the Brave

• Powerful Waves and Diverse Conditions: Known for its powerful and challenging waves, Steamer Lane is a destination for experienced surfers seeking an adrenaline rush. The spot offers a variety of wave types, including long rights and quick lefts.
• Visibility and Scenic Views: One unique aspect of Steamer Lane is its high visibility from the surrounding cliffs, offering spectators a stunning view of the surfing action.
• Epicenter of Surf Competitions: Regularly hosting major surfing competitions, Steamer Lane attracts top-tier surfers and enthusiastic crowds, making it a vibrant and exciting location.

Camping and Local Amenities: Comfort and Accessibility

• Nearby Camping Options: While Steamer Lane itself does not offer camping facilities, the nearby Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park provides camping opportunities amidst towering redwoods.
• Amenities for Surfers and Visitors: The campgrounds offer amenities like showers, fire rings, and picnic areas, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
• Proximity to Santa Cruz Attractions: Being close to the heart of Santa Cruz, visitors can easily explore the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, vibrant local eateries, and unique shops.

5. Gold Bluffs Beach, California: Surfing in the Wild

Location: Gold Bluffs Beach, set within the Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park in Orick, California, presents a unique surfing experience. This secluded stretch of coastline, surrounded by the majestic redwoods, offers a serene and unspoiled environment for surfers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Surfing Features: Embracing the Untamed Waves

• Wild and Pristine Surfing Conditions: Gold Bluffs Beach is known for its uncrowded waves and natural setting. The beach’s isolation contributes to its relatively untamed wave conditions, ideal for surfers looking to escape the hustle of more popular spots.
• Solitude and Serenity: Perfect for surfers seeking solitude, the beach offers a peaceful surfing experience, away from crowded line-ups.
• Best Surfing in Summer: The summer months bring the most consistent surf to Gold Bluffs Beach, with the Pacific Ocean providing gentle to moderate swells ideal for a range of surfing abilities.

Camping and Amenities: A Retreat in Nature

• Beachfront Camping: The beach offers beachfront camping spots within the national park, providing a unique opportunity to camp literally steps away from the surf.
• Facilities Amidst Nature: Campsites are equipped with solar-powered showers and restrooms, balancing comfort with environmental sustainability.
• Exploration Opportunities: Aside from surfing, visitors can explore the extensive network of trails through the redwoods, engage in bird watching, or enjoy beachcombing along the scenic coastline.

6. Westport-Union Landing State Beach, California: The Hidden Gem

Location: Westport-Union Landing State Beach, located along the rugged coastline near the small town of Westport in California, is an undiscovered paradise for surfers and campers. This extensive state beach offers over three miles of scenic coastline, providing a serene and less crowded alternative to the more popular surfing destinations.

Surfing Features: Diversity and Consistency

• Versatile Surfing Conditions: The beach is known for its variety of breaks that cater to different skill levels. From gentle rollers perfect for beginners to more challenging waves for experienced surfers, Westport-Union Landing has something for everyone.
• Less Crowded Waves: Unlike other well-known surf spots, this beach often remains uncrowded, offering a peaceful surfing experience. Surfers can enjoy the waves without the hustle of competing for space.
• Year-Round Surfing Opportunity: The location and geography of the beach allow for consistent surf throughout the year, though the best conditions are typically found during the fall and winter months.

Camping Facilities: Comfort Amidst Nature

• Coastline Camping: The beach offers numerous camping spots along the coastline, providing direct access to the surf and stunning ocean views.
• Basic Amenities for a Rustic Experience: The campgrounds are equipped with basic facilities such as fire pits, picnic tables, and restrooms, offering a rustic camping experience.
• Ideal for Outdoor Enthusiasts: The beach’s location makes it perfect for other outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing, catering to a wide range of interests.

7. Hobuck Beach, Washington: Surfing the Pacific Northwest

Location: Hobuck Beach, located in the remote and picturesque Neah Bay in Washington, is a hidden jewel in the Pacific Northwest. This surf spot, nestled within the Makah Reservation, offers a unique blend of cultural richness and unspoiled natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for surfers seeking a different kind of wave-riding experience.

Surfing Features: Pristine Waters and Consistent Waves

• Suitable for All Skill Levels: Hobuck Beach is known for its clean, consistent waves that cater to surfers of all levels. From beginners to experienced riders, the beach offers conditions that are inviting yet challenging.
• Optimal Conditions in Fall and Winter: The beach truly shines during the fall and winter months when the Pacific storms generate ideal surfing swells, providing powerful yet rideable waves.
• Expansive Sandy Beach: The long stretch of sandy beach allows for plenty of room to paddle out and catch waves without overcrowding, a rare luxury in popular surf destinations.

Camping and Amenities: Embracing the Outdoors

• Oceanfront Camping Experience: Hobuck Beach Resort, operated by the Makah Tribe, offers oceanfront camping options that provide direct access to the beach and surf. Campers can choose from RV sites, cabins, or tent camping.
• Facilities for Comfort and Convenience: The resort provides amenities such as hot showers, RV hookups, and picnic areas, ensuring a comfortable stay amidst the rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
• Exploring Neah Bay: The proximity to Neah Bay offers visitors a chance to explore local attractions, including the Makah Cultural and Research Center, which showcases the tribe’s history and art.

8. Short Sands Beach, Oregon: A Surfing Sanctuary

Location: Nestled within the lush confines of Oswald West State Park in Oregon, Short Sands Beach, affectionately known as “Shorty’s” by locals, is a hidden cove that offers a surfing sanctuary unlike any other. This secluded beach, surrounded by steep cliffs and dense forest, provides a picturesque and tranquil setting for surfers and nature lovers alike.

Surfing Features: Consistent Waves in a Sheltered Cove

• Ideal for All Skill Levels: Short Sands Beach is renowned for its consistent wave quality, making it a favorite for both beginners and experienced surfers. The beach’s unique geography creates a natural cove that tempers the Pacific swells, offering manageable yet exhilarating waves.
• Year-Round Surfing Destination: The sheltered nature of the cove allows for year-round surfing, with the fall and winter months producing the most consistent swells.
• Scenic Surfing Experience: The backdrop of the Oregon Coast’s lush forests and the beach’s golden sands make surfing at Short Sands a visually stunning experience.

Camping and Amenities: Immersed in Nature

• Hike-In Campsites: Oswald West State Park offers unique hike-in campsites, nestled in the forest and providing a serene retreat for visitors. These sites offer a chance to fully immerse oneself in the natural surroundings.
• Basic Amenities for a Rustic Stay: The campsites are equipped with basic amenities, focusing on sustainability and minimal impact on the environment. This offers a more rustic and authentic camping experience.
• Close to Manzanita: The charming town of Manzanita is nearby, providing additional accommodation options, dining, and shopping for those wanting to explore local culture and cuisine.

9. Bolinas Beach, California: The Chilled-Out Surf Spot

Location: Bolinas Beach, nestled in the quaint town of Bolinas in Marin County, California, is a hidden gem known for its laid-back vibe and scenic beauty. This charming beach, located just north of San Francisco, offers a more relaxed and less crowded alternative to the bustling surf spots of Southern California.

Surfing Features: Gentle Waves and a Welcoming Atmosphere

• Ideal for Beginner Surfers: Bolinas Beach is renowned for its gentle, mellow waves, making it the perfect spot for beginners to learn and practice surfing. The beach’s forgiving conditions provide a safe and encouraging environment for those new to the sport.
• Best Surfing in Summer and Fall: The beach experiences its best surf conditions during the summer and fall months, with more consistent swells and warmer water temperatures.
• Community-Oriented Surf Culture: Bolinas has a tight-knit, welcoming surfing community. The local surfers are known for their friendly and inclusive attitude, making everyone feel at home.

Camping and Amenities: Embrace the Slow Life

• Nearby Camping Options: While direct beach camping isn’t available, nearby Samuel P. Taylor State Park offers scenic campsites with modern facilities, nestled among majestic redwoods.
• Facilities for a Comfortable Stay: The state park provides amenities like restrooms, showers, and picnic areas, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable visit.
• Explore Bolinas and Beyond: The town of Bolinas, with its art galleries, local eateries, and unique shops, offers a charming retreat. The nearby Point Reyes National Seashore also offers additional outdoor activities and breathtaking natural scenery.

10. Pacific Beach State Park, Washington: Surfing with Scenic Beauty

Location: Pacific Beach State Park, situated in the picturesque town of Pacific Beach, Washington, is a captivating destination along the state’s coastline. Known for its stunning natural beauty and tranquil ambiance, this state park offers a unique surfing experience amidst the dramatic landscapes of the Pacific Northwest.

Surfing Features: Accessible Waves in a Majestic Setting

• Suitable for All Levels: The beach is characterized by its open beach break, providing waves that are suitable for surfers of all skill levels. Beginners will find the gentler waves inviting, while more experienced surfers can enjoy the challenge of larger swells.
• Best Conditions from Late Summer to Early Winter: The surf at Pacific Beach State Park is most consistent from late summer through early winter, with the changing seasons bringing varied wave conditions.
• Breathtaking Scenery: Surfers at Pacific Beach are treated to spectacular views of the vast Pacific Ocean, framed by Washington’s rugged coastline, enhancing the overall surfing experience.

Camping and Amenities: Comfort by the Sea

• Beachfront Camping: Pacific Beach State Park offers beachfront camping, allowing visitors to wake up to the sound of waves and have immediate access to the beach for early morning surf sessions.
• Full Facilities for a Pleasant Stay: The park provides comprehensive facilities, including showers, RV hookups, and picnic areas, catering to the needs of campers and day visitors alike.
• Exploring the Town of Pacific Beach: The small town charm of Pacific Beach, with its cozy cafes, local shops, and friendly atmosphere, adds to the appeal of staying at the state park.

Conclusion: Your Surfing and Camping Adventure Awaits

The West Coast is a treasure trove of surfing campsites, each offering its unique charm and wave conditions. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or just starting, these top 10 spots provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable surfing and camping experience.Explore the top surfing campsites on the West Coast, from Malibu to Pacific Beach, with detailed insights on waves, amenities, and culture