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When you think of North County San Diego, you might immediately think of surfers riding the waves on some of the best beaches in the world. I’m Blake Ferraro, surfer turned Realtor, and a native of North County since I was 20 years old. I was initially intimidated by the idea of visiting many of the local areas I’m about to describe. In college at USD, I went from enthusiastic to passionate about surfing. I’ve become a student of the reefs and niches from Del Mar up to Oceanside. As I explored the region, I found there is so much more to our beaches than just surfing. Here are some of my favorite North County San Diego surf spots and what they offer for surfers and non-surfers, all from the angle of a “local.”
From Black’s Beach, located in La Jolla, up to Del Mar, the beaches provide famous and stunning scenery with sometimes large and well-shaped waves. The steep trail at Blacks maintains reduced crowds while allowing experienced surfers to push their limits. The consistent and mellow waves with a friendly family atmosphere at Del Mar provides an entry-level for anyone trying their hand at surfing. There is everything you need, including showers and restrooms, for a fun day in the sun, and even a special place to transition into the evening sunset.
The intermediate surfer and beachgoers will feel at home in Cardiff Reef, Encinitas. National Geographic Magazine named Encinitas to the top 20 surf towns in America and crowned it the #3 surfing spot by Surfer Magazine. It’s a classic reef break and is known for producing some of the best waves in the area. Swamis is a must-visit surf spot, and the beautiful and iconic Self-Realization Fellowship Meditation Gardens is a great place to relax and find your inner self.
Carlsbad State Beach, up to Oceanside Pier, is the final leg of legendary beaches along this coastline. The waves can be small and mellow for beginners and larger on big swell days. Carlsbad offers plenty of places to grab a bite or a cold drink after a day in the water. Sitting on the patio at Vigalucci’s is one of my favorite spots to wind down and watch the sunset. The Oceanside Pier provides a picturesque backdrop, and it’s a great spot for beginners and intermediate surfers to practice their skills. Oceanside has the perfect mix of restaurants and bars, and plenty of spots to watch the sunset or spend a night on the town. Last, and maybe one of the best surf spots in the world, Trestles. Only a few miles from San Clemente and part of San Onofre State Beach, this is considered “Heaven” to surfers. The beach is isolated and, many times, unpopulated. Try “Cottons,” “Uppers,” “Middles,” and “Church” for a full Trestles experience.
As a Realtor, I know the North County San Diego lifestyle is about the beach. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, there’s a surf spot for everyone in North County, San Diego. So, grab your board, wax it up, and hit the waves – the ocean is calling. If you want more beach recommendations, are looking for a great souvenir surf map,or want to find a place of your own on the ocean, just email or call me to chat 631-466-8424. I’d love to hear about your “beach time” in North County!
Blake Ferraro, Realtor & Team Member
