San Onofre State Beach (Trestles, Surf Beach)

Status: Open with restrictions (checked October 26, 2026). After the Scales Fire, everything south of the Trail 1 parking lot at the Bluffs is closed; the two northern Bluffs lots have reopened. At Surf Beach, the lower dirt lots are closed after high tides and heavy surf, though the beach is open on foot and by bike. Water and restrooms are out because of water main damage. The Marines will train near Churches November 17–21, 2026; stay at least 300 feet away.

San Onofre State Beach straddles the Orange–San Diego county line, off I-5 south of San Clemente. It holds some of California's best-known surf: Trestles, Surf Beach with its breaks at Old Man's, The Point and Dogpatch, and the beaches under the Bluffs.

Trestles

You can't drive to Trestles. Walk in on the nature trail from the north or south, under the Trestles Bridge; the 1.5-mile trail from San Mateo Campground is the usual route.

Surf Beach

Day use only, with chemical toilets, cold showers and a few fire pits. Old Man's works best on a south swell. A rock reef makes walking in and out tricky.

Rules

Dogs are allowed, but not on the beach or in buildings. No alcohol on any beach. Vehicles over 25 feet aren't allowed at Surf Beach.