High Surf Advisory for San Diego and Orange County Coasts Details Expected Waves, Timing, and Risks

Advisory covers San Diego County Coastal Areas and Orange County Coastal Areas

A High Surf Advisory was issued for coastal areas of San Diego County and Orange County, warning of hazardous surf capable of creating dangerous conditions at beaches and along exposed shorelines. The advisory calls for large breaking waves of 5 to 8 feet, with locally higher sets reaching about 9 feet. The largest surf was expected to focus on beaches most exposed to the incoming swell, with bulletins highlighting south-facing beaches early in the event and later noting the potential for the highest surf at west-facing beaches.

The advisory’s overall time window extended through 11 a.m. Pacific time on Saturday, Dec. 27, 2025, with updated bulletins issued during the multi-day period. Forecast details indicated that surf could ease briefly at times, then rebuild before subsiding later Saturday and into Sunday.

What conditions were expected and why they matter

High surf events increase the risk of rapid water movement and unstable shoreline conditions, even when skies are clear. The advisory identified three primary impacts: dangerous swimming and surfing conditions, strong rip currents, and localized beach erosion. Some bulletins also flagged the possibility of minor tidal overflow and coastal flooding in low-lying areas, particularly when elevated surf coincides with higher tides and onshore or southerly winds.

Large surf can produce unpredictable wave sets that surge farther up the beach than typical, especially near rocks, jetties, and harbor entrances.

Where the risks were most concentrated

The advisory applied broadly to the San Diego County Coastal Areas and the Orange County Coastal Areas. Within that footprint, the most significant impacts were expected on beaches oriented toward the swell direction. Guidance noted that south-facing beaches could see the highest surf at points during the event, while later updates emphasized west-facing beaches as the swell built again.

• Breaking waves: 5 to 8 feet, with sets to about 9 feet

• Primary hazards: rip currents, wave run-up, and localized erosion

• Secondary concerns in some locations: minor tidal overflow and coastal flooding during higher tides

Safety guidance issued with the advisory

Public safety instructions accompanying the advisory urged inexperienced swimmers to remain out of the water during the advisory period. Hazardous conditions can develop quickly, and strong currents can make self-rescue difficult even for confident beachgoers. Beach visitors were advised to account for shifting surf and shoreline conditions, particularly near hard structures such as rocks, jetties, and piers where wave energy can be amplified.