What to Do in Southern California When the Waves Go Flat

Every surf trip has them: the days when the forecast says flat and the ocean looks like a lake. Instead of sulking in the parking lot, treat them as bonus days. Southern California has plenty to do between swells, and most of it is better with a group.

Here are 8 ideas for a flat day, from sand games to a full laser tag battle, to keep the whole crew stoked until the next set rolls in.

Beach Volleyball and Sand Games

Volleyball is the classic flat-day activity because all you need is a ball and a patch of sand. Many Southern California beaches have public nets, and other groups are usually happy to rotate in. No net? Bring a frisbee, a football or a set of beach paddles and play anywhere. Keep a small bag of games packed so the crew can start within minutes.

Rent a Kayak or Paddle Board

Flat water is perfect for paddling. Calm harbors, bays and lagoons along the coast are ideal for stand-up paddle boarding, and a kayak lets you explore cliffs and sea caves when conditions are gentle. Rentals are easy to find, so you do not need to haul your own gear. Always wear a life jacket, and check conditions before you launch.

Hike a Coastal Trail

Cliff paths and bluff trails are the best way to see the coast from above. Southern California has plenty of easy walks with ocean views, and many take under two hours, so you can fit one in before lunch. Bring water, sunscreen and a hat, since there is often little shade. Sunrise and sunset are the best times to go: the light is great, the trails are quieter, and you can spot surf breaks from the overlook and plan your next session.

Laser Tag for the Whole Crew

When everyone is rested and a bit restless, nothing burns off energy like a team game. A mobile laser tag crew such as Los Angeles Laser Tag brings the blasters, bunkers and game system to a park or open space in the Los Angeles, Orange County or San Diego areas, so nobody has to find an arena. It is not just for kids: teens and adults get into modes like capture the flag and team deathmatch just as much. Plan on at least 6 to 8 players and a space about the size of a backyard or half a basketball court, which is easy to manage with a surf crew.

Go Snorkeling or Whale Watching

If the surf is flat, the water is often clear, which makes it a good day to look beneath the surface. Calm coves and marine reserves are great for snorkeling, and you may see colorful fish, kelp forests and even sea lions. If you would rather stay dry, a whale watching boat tour is a relaxed option, since dolphins and migrating whales are regularly spotted along the coast. Check the season and conditions b

Bikes and Skates on the Boardwalk

Coastal bike paths and boardwalks are made for lazy afternoons. Rent bikes or skates, roll along the shoreline and stop wherever looks good for tacos or ice cream. It is a low-effort way to see the coast and scout spots for the next surf session. Wear a helmet, and keep your phone and keys in a waterproof bag.

Beach Picnic and Bonfire

Pack a cooler, claim a patch of sand and make lunch the main event. Our guides on how to have a picnic on the beach and what food to take to the beach cover easy options that survive heat and sand.

In the evening, check whether your beach allows fire pits, since rules vary, and if it does, end the day around a fire with the crew. 

Explore Tide Pools and Coastal Towns

Low tide turns rocky shorelines into natural aquariums. Visit a tide pool area at low tide, look but do not touch, and wear shoes with good grip. Then wander a nearby beach town for coffee, street art and surf shops. Flat days are the best time to see what the coast offers beyond the lineup.

Conclusion

A surf trip is about more than the waves. Some of the best stories come from the days when the ocean said no, so plan one or two of these activities in advance and keep a bag of gear ready. If you are still stocking up, browse our beach gear before you hit the road, and keep an eye on the forecast, because the swell will be back soon enough.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Aleksandra Djurdjevic          

Senior Content Creator

Aleksandra Djurdjevic is a senior writer and editor, covering surf, kayak and various watersports activities. She has previously worked as ESL teacher for English Tochka. Aleksandra graduated from the Comparative Literature department at the Faculty of Philosophy in Serbia. Aleksandra’s love for the ocean / rivers, getting out waves, season after season, seeking epic adventures across the globe helps her continue to be a top expert at CSG.