South San Diego, United States

Scripps

Scripps is an intermediate-level sand-bottom beach break with multiple peaks shaped by shifting sandbars on either side of the pier. It breaks both left and right, working best during low to medium tide with west-northwest swell and southeast offshore wind. The break holds more size than comparable nearby beaches, typically offering waves in the 3–6 foot…

More about Scripps

Scripps is an intermediate-level sand-bottom beach break with multiple peaks shaped by shifting sandbars on either side of the pier. It breaks both left and right, working best during low to medium tide with west-northwest swell and southeast offshore wind. The break holds more size than comparable nearby beaches, typically offering waves in the 3–6 foot range during favorable swells, particularly through winter months when conditions are most consistent.

Scripps has hosted the Legends of Surfing Invitational for decades, an annual event that has raised significant funds for cancer research and brought together prominent figures in surfing history. The pier's proximity to top-tier breaks in the region has made it a longstanding part of the local La Jolla surf scene.

The beach is accessed via parking near La Jolla Shores Drive and El Paseo Grande, with a path and staircase leading down to the sand. The main hazard is the pier structure itself—strong currents and rip zones form around the pilings, requiring awareness and attention to conditions. Crowds can be heavy, especially with surfers of varying skill levels in the water.

Spot profile

Ability
beginner · intermediate · advanced
Boards
shortboard · fish · funboard · longboard · bodyboard · skimming

Boards surfed here

0 boards ridden here

No board-and-spot stories yet.

Photos of the break

Share your view of Scripps. Every photo credits its photographer.

Sign in to upload

Be the first to share a photo of this break. Add your Instagram or website so people can find your work.

32.8658°N, 117.2561°WView on OpenStreetMap ↗