The South Bay has a thriving surfer community, with many popular surf spots stretching from El Segundo all the way down to Palos Verdes. On weekends you will find hundreds (yes, hundreds) of surfers enjoying the waves - especially when the waves are epic!
As a surfer myself, I have tried several different spots in the South Bay, as well as Orange county and other parts of Los Angeles county. But two of my favorites are located just a few miles from where I live and work: El Porto and Rat Beach.
El Porto is located at the northern-most end of Manhattan Beach at 45th Street. In the winter, you'll find the best, most dedicated surfers at El Porto as the waves are much larger and more advanced. With much milder surf in the summer time, you'll find a more diverse crowd of surfers. Still, beginners be aware: El Porto typically has gnarlier waves and die hard locals. Know your limits so that you don't get in a situation that is too much for your.
El Porto is a great place for the intermediate to advanced surfers who want a challenging wave. It usually moves fast, and when it's good, IT'S GOOD! I have caught some of the most memorable waves there, and had great times with my fellow surf friends.
Moving further South, you come to Rat Beach which is at the border of South Torrance and Redondo Beach. El Porto and Rat Beach are two very different surf beaches. At Rat Beach, you will typically find more moderate waves which are more appropriate for beginners or the "fairweather surfer" who only comes out when the weather is good (summer time). I have to admit that I fall into the "fairweather surfer" category.
One of the things that I love about Rat Beach is that you get some real laid back, easy-going surfers enjoying the waves. They are always very open to helping out the new surfers who show a sincere interest in learning to surf.
The other thing that I love about Rat Beach is that even on a small day, you can have a lot of fun surfing. There have been times that I have arrived at Rat Beach to be initially disappointed with the seemingly lackluster surf, only to catch wave after wave for hours.
El Porto, Rat Beach, and the other beaches of the South Bay are great, but they are always better when surfing with a group of friends. Some of the most amazing people I know are fellow surfers, and I value their friendships. The surfing community is very welcoming and warm.
So, grab your board and give me a call for a "board meeting"! I'm always looking to meet other fellow surfing locals and build a new friendship.
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