Trestles Surf Spot, Southern California’s Crown Jewel of Performance Surfing
Few places in the world carry as much weight in west coast surf culture as Trestles surf spot. Nestled within the protected shoreline of San Onofre State Beach in Southern California, Trestles is more than a surf break—it's a proving ground, a pilgrimage, and for some, a battlefield.
Known for its consistent waves, variety of breaks, and iconic lefts and rights, Trestles is a magnet for everyone from world-class pros to stoked beginners hoping to score a few clean lines. But this place isn’t just about waves. It’s about territory, tradition, and tales—like the infamous “Boys in the Hut,” a crusty crew of locals who rule their kingdom with sun-faded hats and saltwater scowls.
Let’s break it down.
The Anatomy of Trestles: The Breaks
Trestles isn’t a single wave—it’s a network of point-like cobblestone reefs, each with its own personality, tide sensitivity, and local pecking order.
Cottons
The far north break of Trestles. Cottons is a dreamy left-hand point when the swell is right. Longboards love it, shortboards want it, and it’s often less crowded because of the longer hike.
Best For: Lefts, long rides, and mellow vibes
Swell Direction: SW
Tide: Works on all tides but loves the incoming
Barbwires
A rarely talked-about, highly local zone just north of Uppers. Named after the barbed wire fence that once lined the trail. Not super consistent, but can be fun when connecting.
Best For: Intermediate surfers looking for less crowded pockets
Vibe: Territorial with a side of "Who are you again?"
Uppers Point (Uppers)
Arguably the most high-performance right in California. Uppers reels with surgical precision, especially on a solid south swell. Get ready for speed, carve sections, and that perfect lip line.
Best For: Advanced shortboarders and people who don't mind burning 800 calories to get dropped in on
Swell Direction: SW to S
Tide: Medium to high
Middles
Just south of Uppers, Middles is like the younger sibling trying to prove itself. The wave’s not as perfect, but still super fun and less crowded on smaller days.
Best For: Less intense crowds and forgiving shoulders
Tide: Best on mid tide
Bonus: Easier to snag waves when Uppers is too crowded
Lowers
The gem. The gold standard. Lower Trestles is a high-performance, contest-ready peak that works both ways—insanely rippable rights and buttery long lefts.
Best For: Everyone (if they could get a wave)
Swell Direction: Any combo of SW, S, or even SE
Tide: Mid tide is fire
Vibe: Competitive, professional, and occasionally chaotic
Church
The southernmost break. Named for the chapel on the base, Church is mellow, often longboard-friendly, and perfect for those looking for flow over flare.
Best For: Beginners, longboarders, cruisers
Vibe: Chill, but can get busy
The Hike In: A Rite of Passage
Unless you have military base access (lucky you), you’re hoofing it. From the parking lot off Cristianitos Road, you trek down the iconic trail, passing through eucalyptus groves and graffiti-tagged benches until you hit the beach. The walk in is a great equalizer—and it keeps the vibe just inconvenient enough to weed out the lazy.
The Boys in The Hut: Local Legends or Grumpy Gatekeepers?
No article about Trestles would be complete without mentioning The Boys in The Hut. Perched like lifeguards of the lineup, this legendary crew of older locals keeps a close eye on who paddles out—and how they surf.
Think of them as a cross between retired surf heroes and surf vigilantes. They know every bump in the reef, every swell angle, and every surfer’s last bad drop-in. Paddle out with respect, and you might earn a nod. Flail around or snake someone? You’ll know you messed up.
They’re known for dry wit, plenty of bark, and the occasional loud heckle—but deep down, they’re just trying to keep the soul of Trestles intact.
Trestles Is More Than a Surf Spot
Trestles surf spot is woven into the DNA of California surf culture. It’s hosted WSL finals, grassroots contests, and generations of surfers learning to fly. It’s a classroom, a stage, and a gauntlet.
Whether you’re scoring flawless Lowers, gliding down a Cottons left, or just soaking up the scenery from the trail, Trestles gives you a little something special every time—if you show up with respect and let the lineup speak.
A Place Worth the Walk
The legacy of Trestles is long, sometimes political, always iconic. With multiple breaks, a deep cultural history, and the kind of waves that leave you glowing, it's no wonder Trestles remains one of the most sought-after surf spots on the planet.
So next time you lace up for that walk down the trail, know this: you're entering a place where wave mechanics meet surf mythology—and where even “The Boys in The Hut” might crack a smile if you surf it right.
