Topanga Beach

About

Surf a beach break very close to downtown Santa Monica. Topanga can have 40-50 surfers in the water, but for some reason it still seems doable.

The break is known as Topanga because it falls outside at Topanga Beach (clever, I know), and holds a lot of physical and cultural importance. The beach is the South Eastern most beach in the Santa Monica mountains national recreation area. It really is an amazing beach. The place is beautifully close to city and amazingly remote at the same time. It sits at the mouth of Topanga Creek, which carves its way through The Santa Monica Mountains to create Topanga Canyon.

Topanga, being the closest point break to the city of Los Angeles, can really gather some crowds, but because the wave that comes through there is so constant, it is easy to predict where the wave is coming from, making it easier plan your paddle.

How to Get

Take PCH from Santa Monica, six miles north of the Santa Monica pier. You can park in the parking lot on the west side of PCH for a daily fee, or as is always the case on PCH, you can park on the road for free. Ideally take the West side of the road so you will not have to cross while carrying your surfboard. No Fees!