10th Street, CA

10th Street in Laguna Beach, CA – named after the street there off of HWY 1 just outside of Dana Point, CA heading north on PCH. Also known as Thousand Steps Beach, it literally feels like hiking up and down a thousand steps to reach this surf spot. I believe I counted 227 steps on the last hike up. Parking is mainly along the HWY and look for the public access beach route between 9th and 10th street (nearer to 9th I believe). Below the steep stair case you will find a quaint cove and for the most part a quiet local beach. 10th street and its neighbor 9th street provide some fun waves for Bodyboarders and Skim Boarders alike. Best on South swells, this break is a bit finicky for shape but if you are just looking for a shallow sand sucking barrel on the beach, then you have found your home. On the right south swells, the typical waist to head-high waves will A-frame up mostly into lefts but also rights with short hollow tube rides that run right into the sands edge. Throw in occasional backwash and side wash (something the Skim Boarders love) and this will make for an interesting day as sometimes you will spend more time in the air than on the wave. Not for beginners and you do run the risk of breaking your back here. Like most California spots, it is best when it is glassy or offshore. Watch out for Skim Boarders entering the waves from the beach as they enjoy the shorebreak in a reverse fashion. If you like this spot, check out Aliso Beach just up the road - similar dynamics and only minutes away.

Wave Type: Shore Pound
Swell Direction: Mostly South
Bottom Terrain: Mostly Sand – some rock
Experience: Moderate skill to Expert (depending on size)

Photo - photo courtesy of discoverlaguna.com