Old Man's Surf Break
Catch your first wave at this iconic surf spot, known for its mellow breaks and expert instructors. Perfect for beginners and longboarders!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Gentle waves for learning
Old Man's Surf Break
Best Time
Gentle waves for learning
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Catch your first wave at this iconic surf spot, known for its mellow breaks and expert instructors. Perfect for beginners and longboarders!
"Great place to learn surfing. Long left and lazy right, just like John John sad."
🎯 Book Lessons in Advance
Many recommend booking lessons ahead, especially with popular instructors like Sam and Anwar. :admission_tickets:
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Pack plenty of sunscreen and wear a rash guard. The sun can be intense, even on cloudy days. :sunwithface:
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.3 · 86 reviews
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Classic Left-Hander
Main break
A long, mellow left-hand wave perfect for cruising and practicing turns. Ideal for longboarders and beginners.
Beginner-Friendly Right
Eastern section
A gentler right-hand wave that's forgiving for those just starting out. Great for building confidence.
Historic Surf Vibes
Corona del Mar
Experience the roots of surfing in a spot that has a rich history of pioneering surf culture.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Surf's Up: Best Time to Catch Waves
Gear Up for Your Session
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Lessons in Advance
Many recommend booking lessons ahead, especially with popular instructors like Sam and Anwar. :admission_tickets:
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Pack plenty of sunscreen and wear a rash guard. The sun can be intense, even on cloudy days. :sunwithface:
🌊 Respect Local Surfers
Be mindful of etiquette and give way to experienced surfers. Patience is key when learning. 🌊
🎒 Secure Your Belongings
Some rental shops offer bins for storing your gear and valuables. 🎒
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Lessons in Advance
Many recommend booking lessons ahead, especially with popular instructors like Sam and Anwar. :admission_tickets:
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Pack plenty of sunscreen and wear a rash guard. The sun can be intense, even on cloudy days. :sunwithface:
🌊 Respect Local Surfers
Be mindful of etiquette and give way to experienced surfers. Patience is key when learning. 🌊
🎒 Secure Your Belongings
Some rental shops offer bins for storing your gear and valuables. 🎒
📏 Check Wave Conditions
Use local surf reports to gauge wave size and conditions before you paddle out. :iphone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Old Man's Surf Break for its beginner-friendly waves and excellent surf instruction, with many highlighting the patience and expertise of instructors like Sam and Anwar. The consistent, mellow conditions make it ideal for learning, and the availability of rentals and a welcoming atmosphere contribute to a positive experience. Some mention the crowds can be high during peak times, and the 'Old Man's' moniker can attract a diverse, sometimes overwhelming, mix of surfers.
"Had a great surfing lesson this morning by Sam. Big laughter and great tips led to riding great waves. Coming back for rental of board an stuff this week :’) keep up the good work!!!"
Sabrina de Graaf
"Great place to learn surfing.
Long left and lazy right, just like John John sad. ❤️
Name of the place is so accurate, becouse russians over took this place and now you can see all kinds here, starting from Kooks, to not so local surf instructors.
Fun wave with some 7footers.
Yiuuu 🤙🏾"
Rūdis Milzarājs
"My wife and I had our first ever surf lessons here. They were upfront with the price (350k each - competitive in the area) for a 1-on-1 lesson each. Much needed with out lack of skills! The instructors were brilliant, patient, informative and pushing us when required. Would highly recommend!"
Liam Macpherson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Old Man's Surf Break is located in Corona del Mar, Newport Beach, California. Access is typically via public parking lots near the beach. Public transport options might be limited, so driving is often the most convenient. 🚗
Yes, there are parking lots available near the beach, but they can fill up quickly, especially during peak times. Arrive early to secure a spot. 🅿️
Historically, the surf break was at the entrance to Newport Harbor. Today, access is primarily from the beach itself. :world_map:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entry fee to access the beach or surf at Old Man's Surf Break. You only pay for board rentals or surf lessons if you choose to use them. 🎟️
Surf schools and rental shops typically operate during daylight hours, with hours varying seasonally. It's best to check directly with your chosen provider. :clock1:
Prices for surf lessons can vary, but reviews suggest around 350k per person for a 1-on-1 lesson. Package deals for multiple lessons are often available. :moneywithwings:
Absolutely! Numerous surf shops and rental stands are available right at the beach, offering a variety of boards for different skill levels. :surfboard:
🎫 🏄 Onsite Experience
Yes, Old Man's is highly recommended for beginners due to its long, mellow left-hand wave and a gentler right-hand break. Instructors are patient and helpful. :beginner:
You can expect long, lazy left-hand waves perfect for cruising and shorter, more forgiving right-hand waves. It's known for being consistent. 🌊
Bring sunscreen, a rash guard, a towel, and a change of clothes. Your surf school will likely provide the board and wetsuit. :towel:
Some rental shops offer bins or lockers for storing your personal items while you're in the water. 🔒
Water temperatures can vary, so a wetsuit is often recommended, especially outside of the summer months. :droplet:
📸 📸 Photography
The beach itself offers great vantage points. For unique perspectives, consider the cliffs overlooking the break, especially during sunrise or sunset. 📷
Yes, if you have waterproof camera gear. Many surfers capture action shots from their boards. :underwater:
Generally, no specific restrictions apply to personal photography. However, always be mindful of other beachgoers and surfers. :noentrysign:
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit