San Onofre State Beach is seven miles of coastline with three surf zones: Trestles (performance cobblestone reefs at San Mateo Creek), Surfing Beach/“Old Man’s” (mellow, longboard-friendly points), and Trails (six bluff-top trailheads to sandbars and peaky beachbreak). It’s a state park with day-use access, rustic facilities, and classic SoCal surf culture.

• Old Man’s (Surfing Beach / “San O”) – Gentle, rolling waves over cobble; great for longboards and learning. Parking is right by the sand inside the Surfing Beach entrance. Expect cobblestone at Old Man’s/Trestles; bring booties if you’re sensitive. California Beaches

• Trails (Trails 1–6) – Multiple bluff lots with footpaths down to wider, less crowded stretches; more of a beachbreak feel. On the Trails side, dogs are allowed on Trail 1 and Trail 6 (on leash) but not on the beach; policies can change—verify before visiting

Old Man’s (Surfing Beach)

1. From I-5, exit Basilone Rd and head toward the ocean.

2. Turn left (south) onto Old Pacific Highway; the Surfing Beach (Old Man’s) entrance is on the right (before the old power plant). Pay day-use at the kiosk and park along the beach road. San Onofre Parks Foundation

Trails (Bluffs)

1. Same Basilone Rd → Old Pacific Highway approach.

2. Continue past the Surfing Beach entrance to the Bluffs/Trails lots (signed Trail 1–6). Park, then hike the dirt trail down to the sand. Gate hours are typically 6am–10pm. California State Parks+1

Amenities: Rustic restrooms/showers at Surfing Beach and at the Bluffs; no services on the Trestles trail—pack water. Check California State Parks for fees/alerts before you go.

• Terrain:

• Dogs: .