Thalia Street Beach Surf Guide

Thalia Street Beach is our home break and our namesake, right out the front door of the shop. It is a gentle, sandy-bottom beach break that is widely considered the best place to learn to surf in Laguna Beach, and it is where we have started first-timers since 2001.

The wave

Thalia is a forgiving wave with a long, easy peel and a short paddle out. On small days it is perfect for beginners on foam boards, with slow rollers that give you time to pop up and ride. When the swell picks up it can hold a fun, rippable wave for intermediate and advanced surfers too, which is why locals of every level surf here.

When to go

Mornings before the wind comes up are best. Summer south swells bring the most consistent fun-size surf, and the sandy bottom means it stays beginner-friendly on the smaller days through most of the year.

Getting there and parking

Thalia Street Beach sits right off Pacific Coast Highway in Laguna Beach, a block from the shop at 915 S. Coast Hwy. Parking is metered along PCH and the side streets, so bring quarters or the parking app and arrive early on summer weekends.

What board to ride

On a typical Thalia day, a soft top or a longboard is the move. A foam board catches the gentle waves easily and is forgiving when you fall. We rent the Thalia Surf Craft soft tops and the 9'6 Felix longboard for exactly this wave, fins, leash, and wax included. Not sure what suits you? Our beginner surfboard guide breaks it down.

First time out?

Thalia Street is the ideal classroom. Book a surf lesson with a local instructor and you can pick up a board at the shop, walk it down, and be riding within minutes. For the bigger picture, see our guide to surfing in Laguna Beach.

Frequently asked questions

Is Thalia Street good for beginners?

Yes, it is one of the most beginner-friendly waves in Laguna. Gentle, sandy bottom, easy paddle out, and consistent on small days.

Where do I park for Thalia Street Beach?

Metered parking along Pacific Coast Highway and nearby side streets. Arrive early in summer, spots fill fast.

Can I rent a board near Thalia Street?

Yes, Thalia Surf Shop is one block away at 915 S. Coast Hwy and rents boards and wetsuits daily. Pick one up and walk it to the water.