San Onofre, or “San O,” is one of the most iconic and laid-back surf zones in California. Located just south of the Trestles zone, San O delivers long, rolling waves and a retro surf vibe that hasn’t changed much since the '60s. It’s a longboarder’s paradise and a favorite for families, beginners, and anyone looking for an unhurried session on classic Southern California lines.
🏄 The Breaks
San O is divided into three main peaks—The Point, Old Man’s, and Dogpatch—each offering mellow, friendly waves over a cobblestone bottom. These breaks blend into each other and share a relaxed lineup culture.
The Point
The most performance-oriented wave at San O, The Point serves up long, peeling rights with just enough shape for turns and noserides.
- Wave Type: Reef break
- Best for: Longboards and mid-lengths
- Wave Shape: Smooth and peeling; great for flow and cross-stepping
- Notes: Can get busy with skilled longboarders; best on a rising tide with a solid south swell
Old Man’s
The heart of San Onofre. Old Man’s is a slow, rolling wave perfect for beginners and cruisers alike.
- Wave Type: Rolling reef/point break
- Best for: Beginners, longboarders, families
- Wave Shape: Soft, forgiving, and easy to ride
- Notes: Wide open lineup with tons of space—great for learning and logging
Dogpatch
The southernmost zone, Dogpatch is where the mellowest vibes and softest waves live.
- Wave Type: Soft reef break
- Best for: Beginner surfers, soft-tops, stand-up paddleboards
- Wave Shape: Very gentle and slow, ideal for getting started
- Notes: Dogs, paddleboards, and pure stoke; often overlooked but super fun on a longboard
📅 Season and Conditions
- Season: Best in summer and early fall with long-period south swells lighting up the long point-style waves
- Tide: Works on most tides, but mid to high is ideal for best shape
- Wind: Mornings are cleanest—winds can pick up early, so dawn patrol is best
- Swell Direction: Thrives on S and SW swells; combo swells add some variety
🤙 Crowd Dynamics
San Onofre has one of the most welcoming and community-driven lineups in California, but it’s not exactly empty.
- Very crowded on weekends, but the spread-out takeoff zones help
- Mixed crowd of groms, families, old-school loggers, and SUP riders
- Chill vibe, but standard lineup etiquette still applies—share the stoke
📍 Summary
San Onofre is surfing’s version of a time machine—longboards, aloha vibes, and friendly waves for just about everyone. With long rides, warm sand, and a uniquely inclusive surf scene, San O is more than just a break—it’s a lifestyle. Whether you're walking the nose at The Point, learning at Old Man’s, or just paddling out at Dogpatch with your dog and a smile, you’re doing it right.