Un Mar de Colores · Beach Guide
Surfing at Dog Beach (Ocean Beach)
Ocean Beach, California — Beach Break with sand bottom
- Skill Level
- Beginner
- Wave Type
- Beach Break
- Bottom
- Sand
- Wave Size
- 1–3 ft typical
- Lifeguard
- None
- Best Season
- Year-round
- Parking
- Free lot
- Un Mar Uses
- Yes
How Un Mar de Colores Uses This Beach
Used for paddle fundamentals and flatwater training (San Diego River mouth). Not for in-water surf instruction due to no lifeguard coverage.
Local History & Character
Dog Beach OB was California's first leash-free beach (1972). Sits at the mouth of the San Diego River — our classroom for river-to-ocean watershed lessons.
Know Before You Go — Hazards & Safety
- ⚠No lifeguards
- ⚠Post-rain water quality
- ⚠Currents at river mouth
Learn to Surf at Dog Beach (Ocean Beach)
Un Mar de Colores offers free youth programs at this beach. Serving all Ocean Beach families, no cost, all equipment provided.