About Dolphin Street

While there are a number of consistently better waves within a 10-minute drive of the pier, Seal Beach typically has fun (if not overwhelming) peaks on offer. During huge west swells when the sand is perfect, this normally average beach break can turn into a dredging slab.

Source: Dolphin Street Surf Guide

Ability Level

All Abilities

Beg Int Adv

Ranges from gentle, user-friendly rollers to heavier peaks depending on swell and sand.

Local Vibe

Doable

Welcoming Intimidating

Not the most welcoming crowd in Southern California, but also doesn't get good that often, so things remain civil.

Crowd Factor

Moderate

Mellow Heavy

Normally pretty crowded, especially when the sand is good.

Spot Rating

Fun

Poor Perfect

Average beach break, except for the rare, XL El Nino swell with perfect sand.

Shoulder Burn

Medium

Light Exhausting

Typical beach break paddle out.

Water Quality

Fair

Clean Dirty

You are in the middle of Orange County, with river mouths and Long Beach nearby. Be careful after rain storms.

Additional Information

Hazards

Runoff, pollution, sting rays.

Access

Public parking at pier.

Bring Your

Shortboard, funboard, longboard, fish, bodyboard, skimming, bodysurfing

Seabed

Sand.

Best Season

Big west swells during an El Nino winter transform this otherwise average beach break into something noteworthy.

Swell Consistency and Wind Overview

Photos & Videos