Your Ultimate OC Wave-Chasing Guide–Wheels Included

With the US Open of Surfing hitting Huntington Beach on July 26, the energy in OC is rising, and the waves are calling. But let’s be honest: finding the right break is only half the story. You need a vehicle that can handle sand, salt, and serious board-hauling without killing your vibe. Enter Ken Grody Ford, the OC go-to for surf-ready rides like the Bronco Sport and F-150 STX KG Custom. These trucks and SUVs don’t just drive; they glide. And when you’re chasing summer swells, you’ll want something built to match your pace. Pair that with a stop at Laguna Surf and Sport to gear up like a local, and you’re set. Consider this your guide to the best surf spots in Orange County and the dream rides to get you there.

 

Huntington Beach Pier

No list of surf spots in OC is complete without Huntington Beach Pier. It’s the epicenter of the US Open of Surfing and arguably the most iconic wave zone in Southern California. This surf mecca delivers year-round, but during the Open, it turns electric. Surfers pack the north and south sides of the pier while fans line the sand. Parking’s a beast, so roll up in the compact-but-tough Bronco Sport from Ken Grody Ford. It’s small enough to maneuver the tight city streets but stacked with space for your boards, wetsuits and post-surf snacks.

Location: Huntington Beach

 

Newport Pier/36th Street

For those who like their beach days with a side of aesthetic, Newport Pier and 36th Street deliver the goods. Mornings here are mellow with glassy peaks, while the afternoon shift brings a little more punch. The vibe is stylish yet laid-back, just like the Ford F-150 XLT. This full-sized truck means business, with enough tech and towing power to double as your weekend escape pod. You’ll need the extra space if you’re meeting friends and loading up coolers and longboards. Don’t forget to grab a post-surf burrito nearby. You’ve earned it!

Location: Newport Beach

 

The Wedge

The Wedge is not for the faint of heart. When south swells hit just right, this freak of nature becomes a steep, churning monster that eats foamies for breakfast. Spectators flock just to watch the carnage. If you’re heading here, bring guts and the F-150 STX KG Custom. Built by Ken Grody Ford with serious off-road capability and cargo space, it’s made for surfers who play rough. The Wedge isn’t about catching the most waves. It’s about charging the one wave that everyone else ducks under.

Location: Newport Beach

 

Salt Creek

Located in Dana Point, Salt Creek is the cool kid of the block: dependable, photogenic, and a little bit spoiled. The point breaks offer long, peeling rights perfect for high-performance turns. Park up in the Bronco Sport and take the beach path down like a local. It’s got just the right mix of agility and ruggedness to navigate hills, surf racks and sandy driveways. You’ll blend right in with the Salt Creek crew of locals, longboarders and teens with style for days. If you need to gear up, Laguna Surf and Sport is up the coast with everything from traction pads to SPF.

Location: Dana Point

 

Doheny State Beach

If you’re introducing a friend to surfing or want some chill longboard time, Doheny is where you go to exhale. This mellow break is ideal for beginners, families or anyone chasing that classic California cruiser wave. The Ford F-150 XLT handles sandy beach lots with ease, and its massive bed has plenty of space for your clothes, towels and cooler. Bonus: the beach park has picnic tables, bathrooms and even a visitor center.

Location: Dana Point

 

Lower Trestles

Lowers is a pilgrimage, not a pit stop. It’s a hike in, but the payoff? World-class waves that host WSL events and draw the best surfers on the coast. Ride in with the F-150 STX KG Custom and stash your gear in the lockable bed while you trek the trail. It’s the kind of spot where pro surfers and weekend warriors quietly share perfect rights. Don’t expect amenities—just perfect surf and some of the most rippable waves in the state.

Location: San Clemente

 

San Onofre

Welcome to retro surf paradise. San Onofre’s Old Man’s break is mellow, forgiving and dripping in 1960s beach culture. It’s a longboard haven where you’ll find VW buses and ukulele music wafting through the air. The Bronco Sport fits right in serving SoCal nostalgia, especially if you’re rolling in with your board waxed and playlists ready.

Local Insight: Get there early. Like, 6 a.m. early. Parking is limited, and the regulars do not play.

Location: San Clemente

 

Thousand Steps / Main Beach

Laguna isn’t known for massive waves, but it is known for coves, cliffs and secret surf spots that feel like a reward. Thousand Steps Beach is a trek, but it’s worth every quad-burning stair. Park up in the Bronco Sport that’s built for agility and won’t sweat steep hills or tight parking. You’ll want something light, compact and chic. Trust us. It’ll help when you’re balancing a board bag and an iced oat latte. And if you need a fresh leash or last-minute wax, Laguna Surf and Sport has been the local go-to for decades.

Location: Laguna Beach

 

Santa Ana River Jetties

On a good day, the River Jetties serve up clean, fast peaks that punch above their weight. It’s a local favorite that delivers variety and power in short, sharp bursts. Pull in with the F-150 XLT and post up for the day. It’s tailgate-ready and weather-resistant, which comes in handy when your sessions run long and sandy. This is where you go when you’re done watching the US Open and ready to drop in yourself.

Location: Newport Beach

 

Seal Beach

Seal Beach is the quiet, clean underdog. Locals love the laid-back energy, and the waves tend to cater to all skill levels. The pier area is photogenic, but the real magic happens just north of the jetty. Drive up in the F-150 STX KG Custom and claim your spot. With room for extra boards, beach games, and a portable grill, it’s ideal for a full-day surf mission.

Local Insight: Head south of the pier for cleaner lines. The crowds are thinner, and the sandbars break better.

Location: Seal Beach

 

Corona del Mar State Beach

Don’t let the upscale surroundings fool you. There’s still surf to be had in Corona del Mar. The beach break here is fun for casual sessions, and the scenery is a bonus. Load up the Bronco Sport for a quick morning dip or sunset paddle. It’s quick to park and prepped for beach town driving. Plus, it has showers and plenty of beachgoers who’ll appreciate your post-surf glow. Need to restock wax or grab new fins before you paddle out? Swing by Laguna Surf and Sport on your way.

Location: Corona del Mar

 

T-Street

A local favorite for good reason, T-Street delivers clean waves and laid-back San Clemente vibes. The waves break clean, the crowd stays fun, and the setting is peak SoCal postcard. Grab your shortboard, toss it in the back of the Bronco Sport and make your way to this all-around gem. Parking is easy (by surf standards), and there’s even a bridge that drops you right on the sand. This is the spot to end your surf safari and capture those golden hour selfie dreams.

Location: San Clemente