California’s coastline wakes up deceptively calm, but the ocean tells a different story.
Sets of powerful waves roll toward San Diego County and Orange County beaches this morning. A High Surf Advisory is now active, with breaking waves of 5 to 8 feet, and occasional sets near 10 feet on west-facing beaches. Strong rip currents intensify quickly, especially near jetties and sandbars.
Conditions can deteriorate fast near the waterline. Rip currents pull straight offshore, while sneaker waves surge farther up the beach than expected. Minor tidal overflow may push water into low-lying parking areas. Beach erosion remains possible where waves repeatedly strike exposed shoreline.
Plan cautiously if heading out. Stay back from jetties, rocks, and piers. Follow lifeguard guidance and posted warnings. Inexperienced swimmers should remain out of the water. If caught in a rip current, float, signal for help, and swim parallel to shore when possible.
Away from the coast, the weather feels inviting. San Diego starts the day near 61 degrees, with clouds thinning later. Sunshine lifts highs into the upper 60s, making coastal conditions feel misleadingly safe.
Saturday turns warmer and brighter. Afternoon highs reach 68 degrees, with gusty northwest winds near the beaches. Surf hazards persist through the day and into early Sunday morning. By Sunday afternoon, waves slowly ease, but rip currents may linger.
Early next week trends warmer and quieter. Highs climb into the low to mid-70s by Monday and Tuesday. Clouds increase midweek, with a slight rain chance returning late Tuesday into Wednesday.
This stretch highlights a classic February risk: warm air, dangerous water. Heading to the beach this weekend? Tell us what conditions look like where you are along the coast.
Five-Day Outlook – San Diego, CA
- Today: Mostly cloudy early, dangerous surf. High 68°
- Saturday: Sunny, breezy, high surf continues. High 68°
- Sunday: Sunny, surf slowly easing. High 75°
- Monday: Mostly sunny, warmer. High 72°
- Tuesday: Slight chance of showers. High 67°
