Strands
Beach break · South Orange County · Beginner → Intermediate
Strands surf today
Forecast for Wednesday 14 October
Intermediate : Nice session in 1h. — Best window: 6h25–9h
Today's score by level (at the day's best, out of 100)
- Beginner —
- Intermediate 88
- Waves 1.1 m · 14 s period
- Wind NW 8 km/h (gusts 23 km/h)
- Tides: ▽ 04:00 · ▲ 11:00 · ▽ 18:00
About this spot
A sand-and-rock beach under the Dana Point bluffs. Hollow, fast peaks at mid tide.
Spot photos
Strands in detail
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 Strands
What tide is best for surfing Strands?
At Strands, tide isn't a deciding factor: the spot stays surfable across most tide states. Focus on the swell and the wind instead.
Is Strands suitable for beginners?
Strands 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 Strands?
The ideal wind at Strands 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 Strands?
Around Strands, you can also check conditions at Aliso Creek, San Clemente Pier, Northside, San Clemente State Beach. Compare the scores, wind and swell direction before choosing where to surf.