Surf Guide

For years, this stretch of sand in South Carlsbad was indecipherable from the miles of other average beachbreak in the area. But, as some spots fade into obscurity over the years, others rise to center stage. Ponto is one case where the Army Corps of Engineers have done some good for the area's surfers, when they decided that the Batiquitos Lagoon needed to be opened up on a permanent basis. They constructed two large jetties that, since then, have proven to be a virtual sandbar factory. Newly formed banks don't stay secret for long. Ponto breaks year-round, with rights funneling off the south jetty during the winter and lefts reeling off the north jetty during the summer. Since the lagoon is constantly flowing, watch for a nasty rip that'll suck you out to sea.

Ability Level

Intermediate - Advanced

BegIntAdv

Average joe to advanced

Local Vibe

Doable

WelcomingIntimidating

Thankful and competitive.

Crowd Factor

Moderate

MellowHeavy

Average to heavy.

Spot Rating

Fun

PoorPerfect

Punchy little beachbreak most days, can get exceptional on a good combo or tropical swell.

Shoulder Burn

Medium

LightExhausting

Pretty average most days.

Water Quality

Fair

CleanDirty

Not great, toxic after a big rain.

Ideal Surf Conditions

Swell Direction

W, NW, SW

Wind

none or E to NE

Surf Height

shoulder-high to 3 feet overhead

Tide

low to medium