Map
Scripps
Today's Surf Conditions at Scripps
Spot Conditions Map
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Today's Surf & Wind Forecast (Hourly)
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Spot Overview & Description
Scripps Pier and La Jolla Shores unfold as a wide, sandy beachbreak where shifting peaks line both sides of the iconic pier, with the south side typically offering the most consistent and well-shaped waves. The expanse of beach fronting the parking areas to the south can dish out excellent rides when conditions align. Thanks to dynamic sandbars that help the beach hold more swell before closing out than many nearby beachbreaks, this spot delivers surprisingly good shape even on junky days. As one of Southern San Diego’s most popular breaks—and a prime learning ground—it draws a lively crowd of beginners, longboarders, and experienced locals alike.
Best Surf Season & Climatology
Best Surf Season (November - March)
Winter at Scripps is prime time. The North Pacific fires up, sending consistent, long-period swell from the W and WSW directly into the west-facing beach. With ideal offshore winds (SW through WNW) blowing 22-43% of the time, waves are frequently clean, punchy, and powerful. Average heights sit around 1.0-1.1m, but pulses can push into the 1.5-2m range, offering solid, rippable conditions on the better days.
Fair Surf Season (April - May & October)
The transition months see a drop in wind quality as the Pacific high strengthens and onshore flow becomes more dominant. Swell remains good—long-period energy from WSW and SW keeps waves in the fun-sized category (0.5-1.5m)—but only 7-18% of the time do you get clean offshore conditions. Mornings offer the best chance before the afternoon sea breeze kicks in.
Low Surf Season (June - September)
Summer is the toughest time for surfers at Scripps. While swell is still present—mostly from the SW and WSW with periods around 13-14s—the wind is almost always onshore (NW through W) and often strong. Ideal wind percentages drop to 1-5%, leaving waves generally choppy and messy. Occasional south swells or early morning windows can provide small, groveling waves, but overall quality is low.
Detailed Surf Information for Scripps
Detailed Surf Forecast
Access our detailed 8-day swell and wind forecast charts for Scripps with tidal graphs, period ranges, and daily forecast text summaries.
Swell & Wind Statistics
Explore historical swell consistency, wave heights, and offshore wind windows month-by-month, compiled from over 40 years of data.
Historical Surf Report
Browse the historical database archives to view past wave reports and understand spot climatology during specific years and months.