Can You Surf in Los Angeles in the Winter? Absolutely — and It’s Epic!

Can You Surf in Los Angeles in the Winter? Absolutely — and It’s Epic!

When people think of surfing in Los Angeles, they usually picture sunny summer days and crowded lineups—but here’s a secret locals know well: winter is actually the best time to surf in Santa Monica and across L.A. From November through March, the Pacific delivers more consistent swells and cleaner, more powerful waves. At Calibunga Surf Lessons, we see some of the most exciting surf conditions of the year during the winter season. Whether you’re learning to pop up for the first time or perfecting your turns, this is when the ocean truly comes alive. Unlike summer’s smaller waves, winter brings the kind of energy that makes every session unforgettable.