Upper Trestles Surf Forecast
BREAK TYPE
High-performance cobblestone point break with consistent right-handers.
GOOD FOR
Uppers breaks over a cobblestone point that sculpts open, peaky A-frames with the right shoulder doing the real work. Rides run 150 meters or more on a clean W or NW pulse, and the wave holds shape from waist-high fun through overhead. The face is playful enough for a solid intermediate but rewards a shortboarder willing to work the pocket and link turns.
BOARD RECOMMENDATIONS
WORKS BEST WITH
- Swell Direction
- SW W NW S
- Wind
- NE E
- Tide
- Low & Mid
WHEN IT WORKS
The point catches W and NW winter energy and S to SW summer swells, so something usually shows most months. Late spring through early fall brings the cleanest combo swells and the warmest water. Mornings are the play, with typical E or NE offshores holding the face before the afternoon onshore fills in. Low to medium tide tends to shape the bank best.
AVERAGE CROWD FACTOR
- Weekdays
- Packed
- Weekends
- Packed
WHAT TO KNOW
Sharks and heavy rips are not the story here. The real friction is people, since Uppers pulls overflow off Lowers and the lineup fills fast with skilled locals and traveling pros. Wait a set, respect the pecking order, and do not drop in. Cobblestones make the entry and exit slippery, so booties earn their keep in winter. The 1.5 mile walk back with a wet board is its own tax.
GETTING THERE
The main route drops from the Cristianitos Road trailhead off the I-5, a paved 1.5 mile path along the rail line that takes roughly 20 to 25 minutes on foot or five by bike. A pay lot sits near the Carl's Jr at Coast Highway, with metered street spots nearby. A longer approach comes from San Onofre State Beach via Basilone Road. Vault toilets only, no showers.