Linda Lane Beach / California / United States

This is a convenient spot, really close to the centre of San Clemente. Unfortunately it isn't the biggest break around, but the surfing here is better than it looks at first glance and everybody from beginners upwards can have a fun day.

This section of beach isn't very big at all and it gets crowded at the best of times – if you are here on a good summer weekend you will barely be able to move.  It is warmest in August when the air temperature will be about 23° C, and coldest in December when it will be around 17° C, with the water a few degrees below those.

The swell starts working at about 1 m and holds up to a maximum of about 1.5 m, working best when the wind is coming from the north-east and the swell is coming from the north-west or the south-west. You need to catch it at the low or mid tide position, and preferably when the tide is falling. It is a beach break, both right and left, and the waves despite being small are relatively fast and powerful. Length is only ever short here, and you will be lucky if you see any more than 50 m.

Parking is right next to the beach, but you'll need to pay to do so. There are surf shops nearby, and the rest of the city is within easy reach and you'll easily find anything else you need.

There can be some strong currents here, and some surfers have complained that the water really isn't clean at all.