Burnout

Burnout is a well-known surf spot in Los Angeles County, California, on the Southern California coast. It’s typically associated with powerful beachbreak waves and can be a fast, heavy, and hollow wave when conditions line up.

General description

• Wave type: Beachbreak
• Skill level: Intermediate to advanced, depending on swell size and sandbar conditions
• Best conditions: Often works best with a solid southwest or northwest swell, manageable winds, and favorable tides
• Wave quality: Can be very good when the sandbars are in the right place, but like most beachbreaks, it can be inconsistent and prone to closeouts

What it’s like

Burnout is known for being a high-energy, punchy surf zone where waves can break quickly and with power. It’s the kind of spot that can produce fun, steep takeoffs and barrel sections on the right day, but it can also be crowded and challenging because beachbreak peaks shift around with the sand.

Hazards

• Strong shorebreak and dumping waves
• Heavy surf and difficult wipeouts
• Changing sandbars and currents
• Crowds when conditions are good

Best for

• Surfers comfortable in fast beachbreaks
• Those looking for punchy, hollow Southern California waves
• Experienced surfers on bigger or more powerful days