Knowing where NOT to paddle out due to heavy localism isn't just proper ettiquette, it's smart surfing. San Diego, like many beach cities, offers a handful of surf spots that aren't quite suitable for the "removal of the training wheels".
If you're a beginner or barely intermediate, below are some spots you would find debilitating and should avoid (even if your skills are above average theses are no green light, smiley face crowds - they are challenging for most).
Our goal here is to keep you in a more positive surf environment so you can naturally improve with efficacy all while respecting the heavily localized spots. If this seems silly, stupid, or difficult to understand now, you will be amazed how the tables will turn as your skills continue to develop.
This is the left hander that meets the north side of the rocks. It's guaranteed at some point during your session you will receive some sort of look or comment designed to immediately decimate your confidence level. The long term strategy here is to discourage you from surfing that spot anytime in the near future. Giving the circumstances, it's best to move on to a more welcoming vibe that facilitates learning. It's impossible to focus on improving your surfing here with a head full of negative thoughts.
New Break, Sunset Cliffs
This break is south of Ocean Beach somewhere deep along the Cliffs. The best thing it offers beginners is its mysterious and difficult access. If you're still curious about the break, just ask any local on dry land and you should get the friendlier version of what lies ahead in the water.
Windansea, La Jolla
It's true; this break offers one of the best, consistent waves in San Diego. It’s also gift wrapped with a vibe that will put any newbie on edge to the point of discomfort. Verbal fights between all ages are commonplace. I even recall a dispute between a 55 year old woman and some dude in his mid 20’s. Fist fights are also witnessed occasionally.
Of course there are more spots like this in and outside of San Diego so let's hear about more in your backyard to point the newcomers in the right direction.
Fab