Water sports and surfing in California

With its fabulous, year-round warm climate, California has been synonymous with surfing and the sporty, tanned, blonde-haired types who have participated in the sport since the 1960s. As such, you'd be hard pressed to find somewhere better to go if you want to ride the best waves! The undisputed hotbed of surfing in California is San Diego - the state’s second largest city. Here, you’ll find fantastic Pacific beaches with facilities specifically designed for surfers and other water sports users, as well as some of the biggest waves that the Pacific has to offer.

Home to several of the surfing industry’s biggest manufacturers and famous pro surfer Rob Machado, the city’s hottest surfing beaches can be found at Black’s Beach, Swamis, Windansea and, of course, at San Diego’s biggest beach: Mission Bay. Attracting millions of visitors each year, San Diego’s beaches are packed with surfers eager to ride the waves; and on the days when the surf isn’t up to par, you'll be able to participate in other exciting water sports - such as water-skiing, jet skiing and paragliding.

Instruction in all water sports disciplines is available at Mission Bay Beach, with some of the biggest and best water sports schools to be found there. Just beyond the beach there is a massive park that offers other recreational activities, such as volleyball and basketball; but with plenty of picnic areas and outdoor barbeques, this park quickly fills up during the summer months, so sun-lovers must get there early to secure their spot!

Many of the best hotels in San Diego are also found in the Mission Bay Beach area, which - at only six miles from the international airport - is convenient to reach and also serves as a great base from which to explore the city and its surroundings.

As California’s second largest city you’ll find there is much to do in San Diego when you’re not surfing, swimming or generally splashing around in the sea; you'll be able to visit everything from some of California's best art museums to local zoos! The San Diego Museum of Art, the Museum of Man and the Natural History Museum are all popular attractions and are all found in the picturesque Balboa Park, along with the Museum of Photographic Arts.

Other cultural highlights include local theatres, opera and the San Diego Symphony. The city is also home to two major US sporting franchises: the NFL's Chargers and the Padres, a popular Major League Baseball team. If none of those alternative attractions or activities tickle your fancy, how about trying the impressive San Diego Zoo, Seaworld, the Wild Animal Park, or even the theme park at Legoland?

Whatever attracts you to San Diego, whether it's sun, sand, surf or the sights, you'll be warmly welcomed by friendly locals, who will do all they can to help you enjoy your holiday.

Elisha Burberry is a freelance writer who loves her job and the occasional glass of red wine.