Background info: This upcoming fall I will be in South San Diego area for college. I was wondering what types of crowds to expect. Can you find spots were no one is out but still good waves? How crowded do known spots get (Blacks, Swamis)? At what sizes do the crowds thin out? (either due being large or small) Is it worth going up or down the coast (into Baja) to find uncrowded surf? Are crowds aggressive or are they relatively passive? How are the lifeguards? Designated Surf zones?
Answer varies. When I was there and it gets good, I didn't surf cause the crowds are friggin outrageous there. Also, some dudes are so aggro in the water and frothing for every wave. Word of advice: surf on weekdays and forget about surfing the weekends. Some spots are highly localized with a bunch of "regulars" on it constantly, so be prepared for that. In some way, I like being on the EC since crowds are rarely a factor here.
1) Yes, you can find good waves with little to no people. Best chance will be at Imperial Beach (my preference), or find a peak away from the crowds at any North County break in Encinitas, Leucadia, Carlsbad or Oceanside. 2) Blacks and Swami's (aka "Swarmies") are freaking zoos. But if you can get that "one" wave by yourself, you'll be sadly addicted forever. 3) Usually, crowds start thinning out above 6'...but that depends a lot on the break. 6' Blacks is a completely different animal than 6' Swami's. 3) Baja is absolutely your best bet. You will find fantastic surf within 15-60 minutes of crossing the border...beach breaks and rock reef/points. Bring a passport and a big set of cojones, the stories down there are all true. It's not a question of "if", but "when" you'll be taking the Big Chorizo up your culo. A little Spanish and some dinero will likely save your butthole virginity. All this being said: Baja is still worth the risk. 4) Crowds are aggressive, particularly at the "name" breaks. Not too bad at your average beachies...if you're competent and calm, you'll bag your share of waves. 5) Lifeguards??? BWAAAAHAHAHAHAHAHAAAAAAAAAA 6) Designated surf zones will only be found at the City (Sh!tty) Beaches, and are usually not in effect until Summer. Sandy Eggo is not nearly as bad with these zones as the East Coast. HTH.
