Lower Trestles
Lower Trestles is the world standard for high-performance surfing—a cobblestone point break in San Clemente that produces perfect, rippable waves with mechanical consistency. The wave has hosted more world championship events than any other spot, and the level in the water reflects it. A 20-minute walk from the parking lot keeps some crowds away, but Lowers is still often packed with some of the best surfers on Earth. California's high-performance mecca.
Lower Trestles surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SW (215°)
- Direction range
- 180° - 240°
- Size range
- 0.6m - 2.5m
- Ideal size
- 1.5m - 2m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 16s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NE (45°)
- Offshore range
- 0° - 90°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
- Optimal range
- 0.5m - 1.5m
Water temp
18°C
Wetsuit
3/2mm fullsuit
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
10/10
🏆 WSL Championship Tour: Hurley Pro Trestles (Sep 11 – Sep 20) — expect heavy crowds & restricted access
Access: 20-minute walk from parking lot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Lower Trestles?
The Lower Trestles profile favors mid tide, ideally between 0.5m and 1.5m on the local tide chart. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at Lower Trestles?
The Lower Trestles profile uses wind from NE (45°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 0° to 90°. Wind speed matters too: light winds outside that range can still produce surfable conditions, while strong offshore winds can make takeoffs difficult.
What swell size and direction work best at Lower Trestles?
The Lower Trestles scoring profile favors swell from SW (180° to 240°), a swell-height range of 0.6m to 2.5m, and a reference period of 16s. These are model inputs, not guaranteed breaking-wave heights or a promise that the surf will suit every ability.
When is the best time of year to surf Lower Trestles?
The main season at Lower Trestles is Apr-Sep. A secondary window runs Mar, Oct. Southern hemisphere groundswell season (Apr-Oct) is best.
How do I get to Lower Trestles?
The spot profile lists LAX as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 60 minutes. 20-minute walk from parking lot.
What kind of wave is Lower Trestles?
Lower Trestles is a point break, a peak with lefts and rights. Difficulty is rated 6/10.
Best Season
Peak: Apr-Sep
Secondary: Mar, Oct
Southern hemisphere groundswell season (Apr-Oct) is best.
Getting There
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Plan a trip around Lower Trestles
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