Seaside Reef
Cobble reef at the south end of the Cardiff state beach stretch, above Solana Beach. Reef structure shapes a peak that holds size better than the sand either side of it.
When it’s on
Seaside Reef works best on a SSW to WNW swell. Light offshore wind from the east through northeast. Mid to low tide window.
Spot intel
- Parking
- State beach day-use lot on Coast Highway 101 with a posted fee.
- Crowd
- Thick on a good swell. Shortboard-heavy, and the peak is a defined takeoff zone.
- Beginner-friendly?
No.
A reef peak with a tight priority hierarchy, cobble underfoot, and a wave that stands up fast on size. Not a beginner wave.
- Famous for
- The reef at the south end of the Cardiff state beach, and a long-running contest site on the north county coast.
- Lineup etiquette
- Priority on a reef goes to the deepest rider. Paddling inside an active takeoff is the standard call-out.
Where it breaks
- Coordinates
- 33.0030, -117.2810
- Shore faces
- WSW
- Region
- Solana / Del Mar, California
Common questions
- What swell direction is best for Seaside Reef?
- Seaside Reef works best on a SSW to WNW swell.
- How big does Seaside Reef need to be?
- Seaside Reef is best in the 2-8ft range on a 12-20s period.
- What are the best conditions at Seaside Reef?
- Light or offshore wind under about 8 knots, with the tide around 1-4ft.
- Where is Seaside Reef?
- Seaside Reef is a contest-site reef in Solana / Del Mar, California. The beach faces WSW.
- Does GhostFingers forecast Seaside Reef?
- Yes. GhostFingers grades Seaside Reef with a six-tier verdict from swell height, period, direction, tide, and wind. iPhone, winter 2026.
Nearby spots
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