Best Time of Year to Surf in Malibu
- Anthony Petro
- Oct 12
- 4 min read
When is the best time to surf Malibu?If you’ve been searching surf lessons near me or wondering whether summer or fall brings the best waves, this guide explains Malibu’s surf seasons month by month — including what kind of conditions beginners, families, and advanced riders can expect.
At Always Summer Surf School Malibu, our instructors surf year-round and know exactly when each beach shines.Whether you want gentle summer rollers at Broad Beach or clean winter peelers at Surfrider, we’ll help you find the perfect tide, swell, and time of day.
Malibu’s Surf Seasons at a Glance
Summer: The Beginner’s Season
June through August is Malibu’s golden season for new surfers.Water temps rise into the high 60s, waves stay knee- to waist-high, and the sun shines from morning to sunset.These are the months when most surf lessons near me searches spike — and for good reason.
Beaches to Try
Broad Beach: gentle sandbars for kids and families
Zuma Beach: wide open with lifeguards and steady surf
Surfrider: perfect for practicing long rides on clean lines
Book early for weekends; mornings offer calm winds and fewer crowds.Reserve directly at <a href="https://www.alwayssummersurfschool.com/book-now">Book Now</a> or see<a href="https://www.alwayssummersurfschool.com/private-lessons">Private Lessons</a> for one-on-one sessions.
Fall: The Surfer’s Secret Season
September and October bring the best of everything — warm water, steady south swells, and crisp offshore winds.Crowds thin out after Labor Day, and conditions stay ideal for both beginners and returning students looking to improve.
If you want postcard-perfect Malibu mornings with glassy surf, fall is your window.Our instructors call it “the locals’ summer.”
Winter: The Quiet Power Months
December through February brings Malibu’s biggest, cleanest waves.Northwest swells roll through regularly, lighting up Zuma Beach and Point Dume with long rides and deep blue water.Water temperatures drop into the 50s, but a full wetsuit keeps you warm.
While winter surf can look intimidating, it’s also the most peaceful time of year to enjoy Malibu’s coast.Fewer crowds, crisp air, and glassy mornings create ideal conditions for private lessons or advanced coaching sessions.Beginners can still surf safely — we simply choose smaller tide windows and protected beaches like Broad Beach.
Spring: Perfect for Practice
March through May marks the transitional season.Swells rotate from west to southwest, offering consistent waist- to shoulder-high surf that’s great for building consistency.Water temps start to rise, crowds remain light, and sunrise sessions can feel magical with mist over the Pacific.
For students finishing a winter series or visiting before summer rush, spring provides steady improvement conditions.This is when many Malibu locals return to refine their technique before the summer season kicks in.
Weather and Tide Tips for Year-Round Lessons
Morning Lessons (7–10 AM): lightest winds and clearest water.
Mid-Tide Rising: more forgiving takeoffs and steady wave shape.
Afternoon Sessions: warmer air but windier surf—best for strong paddlers.
Offshore Days: calm, glassy conditions—Malibu’s most photogenic surf.
Check forecasts daily at<a href="https://www.surfline.com/surf-report/malibu/5842041f4e65fad6a770888c">Surfline’s Malibu Report</a>and always follow updates from<a href="https://beaches.lacounty.gov/lifeguard-services/">LA County Lifeguard Services</a>.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the Best Month to Learn to Surf in Malibu?
June through October is ideal for beginners — consistent small waves and warm weather.
When Is Malibu Least Crowded?
Late fall and winter mornings, especially weekdays, are quiet and beautiful.
Do You Offer Year-Round Lessons?
Yes! Always Summer Surf School runs daily sessions 12 months a year with gear included.
Do You Cancel When It Rains?
Only for lightning or unsafe runoff; otherwise, light rain can actually mean glassier waves.
What Should I Bring for Each Season?
We provide wetsuits, but sunscreen, towel, and hydration are musts year-round.
Book Your Malibu Surf Lesson Anytime
No matter the season, Malibu offers world-class waves and safe, welcoming beaches.👉 <a href="https://www.alwayssummersurfschool.com/book-now"><strong>Book Now with Always Summer Surf School Malibu</strong></a>
or browse our<a href="https://www.alwayssummersurfschool.com/private-lessons">Private Surf Lessons</a> and<a href="https://www.alwayssummersurfschool.com/group-lessons">Group Surf Lessons</a>to find your perfect time to surf.Questions? Head to our<a href="https://www.alwayssummersurfschool.com/contact">Contact Page</a>.
Compare & Book Surf Lessons Near Me
<h3>Compare & Book Surf Lessons Near Me</h3>
<p>
If you're comparing <strong>surf lessons near me in Malibu</strong>,
check out <a href="https://www.malibusurfingschool.com" rel="nofollow">Malibu Surfing School</a>,
<a href="https://www.gosurfla.com" rel="nofollow">Go Surf LA</a>,
and <a href="https://www.kapowui.com" rel="nofollow">Kapowui Surf Lessons</a>.
Then book your own <a href="https://www.alwayssummersurfschool.com/">Malibu surf lesson</a>
with <strong>Always Summer Surf School</strong> — boards and wetsuits included.
For real-time waves, visit <a href="https://www.surfline.com/surf-report/malibu/5842041f4e65fad6a770888c">Surfline’s Malibu forecast</a>.
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