California, USA
Southern California's high-performance benchmark.
| Wave height | 1.3 ft (1-2 ft) |
| Swell period | 9 sec |
| Swell direction | 251° |
| Wind | ENE cross/onshore 4.6 kt |
| Tide | mid / optimal |
| Surf score | 38 / 100 |
Lower Trestles is a cobblestone point break in San Onofre State Beach and a long-running stop on the WSL Championship Tour, known for its forgiving open faces. On the right day, the ideal swell window runs from WSW–WNW (255–295°); groundswell with periods around 10–18s gives it the most shape; the wave is comfortably workable up to roughly 12 ft on the face. Best winds are NE or E, with N or NW still rideable. Tide influences the wave moderately, so timing the swing helps line up the better sets. The sweet spot in our data sits between roughly 0.4 m and 1.6 m of tide height. It is one of the more consistent waves in the region, producing rideable days across much of the season. Expect cool water best surfed in a full wetsuit. Expect a busy lineup, particularly during the prime season. Logistically, it is about 55 minutes from SNA airport. It rewards strong, confident surfers and is not the right place for a first session of the trip - paddle fitness and wave-reading both matter. Board-wise, locals lean on high-performance shortboard.
The best window is typically Apr–Oct, when swells from WSW–WNW (255–295°) are most consistent.
Lowers is best from waist-high to head-and-a-half overhead, with bigger swells preferred at neighbouring Uppers and Middles.
Not really - it suits advanced surfers and is not the place to learn.