Black's Beach
Wave Height
8-10
Swell
~8s
Wind
16mph
Water
72°
Surf Graph
Tide Forecast
Recent History
About Black's Beach
Black's Beach is one of the most powerful beach breaks in Southern California, tucked beneath the towering Torrey Pines cliffs in La Jolla. The steep, narrow beach focuses swell energy into heavy, hollow peaks that can hold well overhead surf. Access requires a rugged trail down the bluffs—no easy paddle-out here, which keeps the crowd more committed than your average SoCal break. Winter northwest swells light this place up, producing barreling A-frames that rival anything on the coast. The nudist section to the north adds to the uniquely SoCal atmosphere.
FAQ
What is the water temperature at Black's Beach?
The current water temperature at Black's Beach is 72°F. Boardshorts or a rashguard should be comfortable.
What is the surf like at Black's Beach today?
Black's Beach currently has waves around 8-10ft. Conditions change throughout the day, so check back for updated forecasts.
What time is high tide at Black's Beach?
Today's high tide at Black's Beach is at 12:55 AM ET. Tide times shift daily, so check our forecast for upcoming tide schedules.
What time is low tide at Black's Beach?
Today's low tide at Black's Beach is at 6:29 AM ET. Tide times shift daily, so check our forecast for upcoming tide schedules.
What are the best conditions for surfing Black's Beach?
Black's Beach works best with swells from the W, WNW, NW and E, NE, ENE winds (offshore). The ideal tide is low to mid.
Is Black's Beach good for beginners?
Black's Beach is recommended for experienced surfers only. The waves here can be powerful and conditions challenging. Beginners should look for more forgiving spots nearby.
This Week's Outlook
Monday morning is your best bet with 6ft waves on 9 second periods and light cross-onshore winds, plus you'll have a high tide pushing through around 5:37am that'll help shape up the lineup. Sun afternoon could work too if you're desperate, but the onshore wind ramps up hard and the tide's dropping into a low, so Monday is cleaner and more organized.
Spot Info
Local Tip
The cliff trail is no joke—allow 15 minutes each way. Winter NW swells are when this place really turns on.
⚠️ Hazards
- Large surf - experienced surfers only
Worth Checking
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