South Carlsbad's Reef and Surf
The
Reef:
Under the water in the
Carlsbad area it is mostly sand with the occasional rock or
two. The sand does move a lot when there is a swell breaking
upon the shores so make sure to take caution for sandbars
and deep holes to fall into. Other then those couple
hazards, these Carlsbad beaches are safe and great for a day
at the beach!
Picture taken during the
2007 fires.
The
Surf:
Best
Tide: Low to Medium but a High tide doesn't totally ruin
these breaks.
Best
Swell Directing: West and Northwest swells but during
the Summer months, a clean Southwest swell can lead to some
awesome waves along these breaks.
Best
Winds: No wind is best but if any, a East wind will do
wonders.
Best
Size: Anywhere from 2 - 6 feet. These beach breaks will
close out and become near impossible to surf after 8 feet.
Best
Months to Catch it Going Off: These breaks are fun year
around but will be at their best during the Winter months
and occasionally during the Summer months.
As you head North or South
on Old Highway 101, you will get distracted by the waves
breaking in this Carlsbad location, in fact I always seem to
find myself going about 20 while I check out the surf. It
may not be the safest but I think it's a common thing for
surfers to do.
Carlsbad may not be the
most consistent waves but from personal experience, you can
score some awesome days of surf while out at Carlsbad. In
fact, I've had a few barrels that were jaw dropping while
surfing the inside wall of these Carlsbad beaches. What it
lacks in shape and size, it makes up for in fun!
On smaller days, the
beaches at Carlsbad would be an awesome place for beginners
or surfer's still learning their skills. The waves can be
very gradual and smooth which provide a great canvas for
beginners. I recommend for beginners to hang out in the
inside and practice on the white water before heading out to
the set waves an possible getting hurt or hurting another.
In my opinion, drive
through Carlsbad and just keep your eyes open for the a spot
you want to paddle out at. Find the closest parking lot and
paddle out! Carlsbad is one of those spots where there
always seems to be waves, even when it's flat out and I love
that.
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