Warm Water Jetty Surf Spot
If you've ever driven
through Carlsbad, undoubtedly you've noticed the huge power
plant right next to the beach. Well this power plant uses
sea water to cool down the machines and create energy. The
water is sucked into the plant and then dispersed out
through a set of jetties back out into the ocean. Because of
the friction, the water heats up and causes the surrounding
water to heat up significantly.
The water returning out to
the ocean, warm and toasty!
In simple terms, the
waters warm! It tends to be about 4 to 5 degrees warmer than
the surrounding areas which can be great during the Winter
months. This is definitely a spot to check out and surf,
make sure to check out the jetties because there are usually
some awesome waves breaking off the end of them!
Location:
The Warm Water Jetties are
located in Carlsbad, just North of Palomar Airport Road and
Terramar and South of Tamarack and the actual town of
Carlsbad. It's on the long stretch of Old Highway 101 and is
very hard to miss.
Please note: This
section of highway has a 35 MPH speed limit and police
officers heavily patrol this area so please take it easy and
avoid a ticket.
The view of the power plant
from Old Highway 101
Click Here for Directions
The Parking Scenario:
The parking for the Warm
Water Jetties is along Old Highway 101. There are no
designate parking lots for this section of Carlsbad beach
but there is plenty of parking on the side of the road while
heading South. During the hot, sunny days of summer, these
spots fill up quickly so prepare to look for spots when
ready to hit the beach!
The parking along Old
Highway 101
Beach Accessibility and Conveniences:
Beach accessibility is
straight forward at the Jetties, park your vehicle and walk
onto the beach! No stairs, walkways or cliffs at this break!
The sand is soft and great for a family day at the beach and
there are even restrooms available. There are port-a-potty's
located up and down the walkway along Old Highway 101 and
are open for all public use.
The Port-a-potty at the
Warm Water Jetties
Lifeguard:
There are several
lifeguard stations located up and down the beach in
Carlsbad. There is a tower located just South of the Jetties
that the warm water passes through. The lifeguard tower is
usually attended full time during the Summer months but only
off and on during the Winter months.
Please take notice if
there is a lifeguard on duty and be surf safely!
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