Topanga Beach - surf spot statistics

Best Surf Season (November - February)

The heart of winter delivers the most consistent and quality surf for Topanga Beach. With ideal offshore wind percentages climbing above 56% and peaking at 60% in December, the combination of long-period groundswell and clean north winds sets the stage. While average wave heights hover around 0.8-0.9m, the long periods (12-12.4s) pack a punch, and when a strong storm track sends S-SSW swell our way, the beach can fire with fun, rippable waves. This is the prime time to score.

Fair Surf Season (March - April & September - October)

During the transition months, the offshore wind frequency drops to 43-50%, but the swell remains consistent. The decline in north wind strength leads to more variable conditions, but the ocean still churns with long-period energy from the west. These months offer a good chance at clean surf, especially when high pressure sets up off the coast and delivers those coveted N/NE breezes. It's a shoulder season worth watching.

Low Surf Season (May - August)

Summer is the quietest period for Topanga. Favorable offshore winds plummet to below 27% as the Southern California climate shifts to a persistent southwesterly onshore flow. Swell heights remain small (0.8m average) and while the period is still impressive (12.5-12.7s), the dominant westerly swell direction often combines with onshore winds to produce subpar conditions. Early morning north winds can offer a narrow window, but overall it's a time for a shortboard or a groveler, not expectations of pumping surf.

December: Peak Performance

December hits the highest ideal wind percentage of the year at 60%. The average swell height is 0.8m with a period of 12.4s. Swell arrives predominantly from the W (53.6%) and WSW (29.5%), with a solid SW component at 10.4% and even some SSW at 2.5%. The north-northeasterly winds are at their peak, blowing light to moderate in the mornings and often lasting through the day. The long-period swell from winter storms can occasionally reach head-high or better when a strong low-pressure system aligns. December offers the best chance for clean, powerful, rippable surf at Topanga Beach. It's the month to plan your sessions around.