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Reef break
Surfing Trestles (Lower Trestles): Complete Guide
Lower Trestles is California's most performance-oriented wave — a cobblestone reef that produces high-line walls perfect for aerials and progressive surfing. It hosts the WSL Finals every September.
Wave type
Reef break
Skill level
Advanced
Best season
May – September
Swell
S – SW
Wind
Offshore NE
Water temp
16–21°C
Crowd
Heavy
Why surf Trestles (Lower Trestles)?
Best wave in California for high-performance surfing; protected within San Onofre State Beach.
Beginner-friendly?
Not a beginner spot. Try San Onofre's Old Man's just to the south for a mellow longboard wave.
Hazards & local knowledge
Long walk in, crowded lineup, cobble-stone bottom.
Nearby towns
San Clemente • Dana Point • Oceanside
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