Santa Monica Pier
Beach · California · Beginner → Intermediate
Santa Monica Pier surf today
Forecast for Friday 16 October
Intermediate : Nothing to surf today. Rest those arms.
Today's score by level (at the day's best, out of 100)
- Beginner 88
- Intermediate —
- Waves 0.7 m · 15 s period
- Wind E 12 km/h (gusts 35 km/h)
- Tides: ▲ 12:00 · ▽ 21:00
About this spot
Santa Monica Pier is a beach break in Los Angeles County. California light, urban energy and a lineup to respect. Watch the currents.
Spot photos
Santa Monica Pier in detail
When to surf here
Look for clean swell windows, especially with west-southwest swell and northeast wind.
Beginner → Intermediate
Ideal for starting out or longboarding. Mellow waves, little current, surf school usually nearby.
Access & landmarks
Easy beach access, parking usually nearby. Ask locally about seasonal currents.
Safety
Wear an appropriate wetsuit. Scout the currents before you paddle out. Respect the locals and right-of-way. Check weather and tides.
Frequently asked about Santa Monica Pier
What tide is best for surfing Santa Monica Pier?
Santa Monica Pier usually works best around mid-tide. The tide shapes the sandbanks and the depth over the reef, so check the day's tide times before your session.
Is Santa Monica Pier suitable for beginners?
Santa Monica Pier is rather accessible to beginners when the waves stay small and the wind is light. Still, check currents, tide and local guidelines before entering.
What wind is ideal for Santa Monica Pier?
The ideal wind at Santa Monica Pier comes broadly from North-East: it's offshore, which helps shape and hold the waves. A strong onshore wind generally degrades conditions.
What surf spots are near Santa Monica Pier?
Around Santa Monica Pier, you can also check conditions at Anse-Bertrand, Port-Louis School, Le Souffleur. Compare the scores, wind and swell direction before choosing where to surf.