Last updated on April 14th, 2024 at 05:06 pm
If you are looking for a surf shop in San Diego, you came to the right place. In this post, you will find our list of the most recommended surf shops in San Diego, where you can purchase a new surfboard, surf gear, and all different kinds of surf accessories.
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About Surf Shops in San Diego
San Diego is a famous tourist destination with millions of visitors every year. It is known for its sunny beaches, vibrant surf culture, and a wide variety of surf spots.
Whether you are a pro surfer or a complete beginner, you will find plenty of places to buy or rent surfing gear. From shortboards to longboards, leashes, wax, or ding repair kits, San Diego has a great selection of surf shops to cover all your needs.
We have compiled a list of the best surf shops in San Diego that are worth a visit. Each store presents a unique charm, a rich history, and an array of fine boards, wetsuits, and beachwear.
So, without further ado, let’s break down the surf shops in San Diego:
The 10 Best Surf Shops in San Diego
1. Mitch’s
Address – 631 Pearl St, La Jolla, CA 92037.
Opening Hours: Monday through Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. (Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.).
Contact – mitchslj@gmail.com, (858) 459-5933.
Website- mitchssurfshop.com.
Mitch’s Surf Shop is a true icon in La Jolla’s vibrant surf scene. Situated at 631 Pearl St, this local gem has been the heart and soul of San Diego’s surfing community since 1967. The shop has every gear you need to prepare for a great day of surfing, from hand-shaped surfboards to wax and leashes to longboards and fins.
This brand manages two stores in the San Diego area. One is in La Jolla, and the other is in Solana Beach. With its friendly, knowledgeable staff, the shop prides itself on delivering personalized service of the highest level.
2. Surf Diva
Address – 2160 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla, CA 92037.
Opening Hours – Daily 8:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Contact – askadiva@surfdiva.com, (858) 454-8273.
Website- surfdiva.com.
Surf Diva was established in 1996 by twin sisters Izzy and Coco Tihanyi. It was the world’s first women’s surf school, and it has been inspiring wave riders ever since. Here, you can find almost all the surfing gear you need and be served with a smile.
You will find everything from high-performance shortboards to long beginner boards, soft tops, and wetsuits. In addition to gear, you can take surfing lessons. From private coaching to group sessions, this school is known for its professional, dedicated instructors who create a safe and fun learning environment. The shop is vibrant, and the staff is friendly, so you should definitely check out this one.
3. Bird’s Surf Shed
Address – 1091 W. Morena Blvd., San Diego, CA 92110.
Opening Hours – Open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., closed on Sundays at 5:00 p.m.
Contact – info@birdssurfshed.com, (619) 276-2473.
Website- birdssurfshed.com.
The Shed was founded by Eric “Bird” Huffman, who was raised in Point Loma, Pacific Beach, and La Jolla, a surfer who has strong ties to the community and has been a part of it his whole life. Here, you will find an extensive collection of new and vintage surfboards, many of them hanging from the rafters in the stunningly renovated warehouse. Each surfboard has its own story, and the friendly staff is more than happy to share these stories with clients.
The Shed is more than just a repository of surfboards. It’s a cultural hub where films premiere, bands play, and art shows take place. The vibe is relaxed, welcoming, and distinctly Southern Californian. In addition to surfboards, Bird’s Surf Shed offers a wide range of surf equipment, clothing, and accessories catering to surfers of all skill levels.
4. Hansen Surfboards
Address – 1105 S Coast HWY 101 Encinitas, CA 92024.
Opening Hours: Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Contact – 1 800 480 4754.
Website- hansensurf.com.
The Hansen Surf Shop has been serving clients in San Diego since 1961. The founder, Don Hansen, is a renowned surfer who brings an authentic vibe to the store. Hansen Surfboards boasts a wide variety of surfboards in stock. Here, you will find a mix of their brand, the famed Hansen Surfboards, and other top brands.
Besides surfboards, they also carry an impressive array of surf and beach apparel, footwear, surf sunscreens, surfboard fins, socks, leashes, surf racks and pads, and many other core accessories.
5. South Coast Surf Shop
Address – 5023 Newport Ave, San Diego, CA 92107.
Opening Hours – Every day between 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
Contact- cs@southcoast.com, (619) 223-7017.
Website- southcoast.com.
South Coast Surf Shop was established in 1974. It etched its name in San Diego’s surf history as a homegrown, family-owned business that puts the community first. If you visit San Diego and are near the Pacific Beach area, you must visit South Coast Surf Shop. It is an absolute one-stop shop for all your surfing needs.
At this shop, you will find a wide range of surfboards from various brands. This diversity allows you to choose a board that resonates with your style and surfing goals. There is also an extensive collection of wetsuits, clothing, and accessories.
Beyond retail, South Coast offers surfboard rentals and repair services, emphasizing its commitment to supporting surfers at every stage. Its dedication to the community extends outside the shop, as it actively participates in local events, sponsors young talents, and promotes ocean conservation.
6. Clairemont Surf Shop
Address – 6393 Balboa Ave, San Diego, CA 92111.
Opening Hours – Monday-Friday, 10:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.; weekends, 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.
Contact- (858)292-1153.
Website- clairemontsurf.com.
Planning a surf trip to San Diego? Don’t miss out on Clairemont Surf Shop, conveniently situated at 6393 Balboa Ave. As you step inside this local gem, you will quickly see why it is a favorite among both tourists and local surfers.
Clairemont Surf Shop is a one-stop destination for all your surfing needs. With an array of surfboards, ranging from longboards to shortboards, you will find a great selection to match all styles and skill levels. The store also offers top-quality wetsuits to keep you warm in the cool Pacific waters. Plus, the shop’s extensive variety of surf accessories ensures you won’t miss any essentials.
If you are a first-time surfer, the staff can help you choose the right board and gear, making your surfing experience as enjoyable as possible.
7. Rusty Del Mar Surf Shop
Address – 2014 Jimmy Durante Blvd, Del Mar, CA 92014.
Opening Hours – Everyday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Contact – info@rustydelmar.com, 1 (858) 259-3200.
Website- rustydelmar.com.
If you want to experience San Diego’s vibrant surfing scene, check out Rusty Del Mar Surf Shop. Situated at 2014 Jimmy Durante Blvd in Del Mar, It is a must-visit for all surfers. The selection of surfboards covers all skill levels, from beginners to advanced. You can trust that the boards are designed with the highest standards, as the shop shares its name with the iconic Rusty Surfboards brand.
8. Sun Diego Boardshops
Address 1 – Fashion Valley Shop – 7007 Friars Rd #844 San Diego, CA 92108
Opening Hours – Monday-Thursday: 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.; Friday-Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.; and Sunday: 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Contact – (619) 268-2295.
Address 2 – Belmont Park, Mission Beach – 3126 Mission Blvd. Suite A, San Diego, 92109.
Opening Hours – 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. all week long.
Contact – (858) 866-0108.
Address 3 – Westfield UTC 4465 La Jolla Village Drive Suite #H-14, San Diego, 92122.
Opening Hours – It is open from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. from Monday to Thursday and 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. from Friday to Sunday.
Contact – (858) 646-0632.
Website- sundiego.com.
Sun Diego Boardshops carries a wide selection of surfboards, surf suits, and surf accessories. There are several branches in San Diego, all situated near the beach and close to the best surf spots, so no matter what you need, you can find it easily. Sun Diego has a great selection of gear from all the top brands, along with knowledgeable staff ready to answer any questions you may have.
9. Mission Surf
Address – 4320 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109.
Opening Hours – 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. all week long.
Contact – (858) 292-1153.
Website- missionsurf.com.
Mission Surf is a surf shop with a unique approach. While other surf shops in San Diego provide the necessary surfing equipment, Mission Surf goes further by offering two Airbnb apartments directly above the store, providing visitors a comfortable place to stay near the beach. You can quickly prepare for the day and head to the beach within minutes. Whether you want to surf at Mission Beach or Tourmaline Beach, both are easily accessible and great options.
10. PB Surf Shop
Address – 4208 Oliver Ct. San Diego, CA 92109.
Opening Hours – 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. all week.
Contact – (858) 373-1138.
Website- pbsurfshop.com.
PB Surf Shop is a famous old surf shop in San Diego, located in Pacific Beach since 1962. It feels like a warm, welcoming home for all surfers. When you see its old logo, you will instantly remember the days of 70s-style surf culture. The shop carries a vast selection of surfboards, beachwear, footwear, and accessories from popular brands. They also have a large selection of surfboards for rent.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the best surf shops in San Diego?
San Diego is home to many great surf shops, but a few stand out from the rest. Mitch’s Surf Shop, for instance, has been a local favorite since 1967 due to its wide range of surf gear. Hansen’s Surfboards is renowned for its extensive surfboard collection. Other top-rated surf shops include South Coast Surf Shops, Surf Diva Boutique, Bird’s Surf Shed, Clairemont Surf Shop, Rusty Del Mar, Mission Surf, Ca Pacific Beach, and Pb Surf Shop.
Why is San Diego famous for its surf shops?
San Diego’s surf shops play a big part of the city’s surf culture, known worldwide for its perfect waves and year-round surfing opportunities. The shops offer a wide range of surf gear, provide lessons and rentals, and provide valuable insight into the region’s surfing scene.
Conclusion – The Bottom Line
To sum up, San Diego is an incredible hub for surfing, offering a vibrant surf culture. The city’s top surf shops provide everything you need to get your feet wet in the surfing world. Whether you are a beginner looking for your first board or an expert seeking the perfect wave, San Diego’s surf shops will surely have what you need.
For more surf shops, check out our posts about the best surf shops in San Francisco or surf shops in Miami. We also have a great post about the best online surf shops.
