Redlands offers a unique inland surf culture just an hour from Southern California's premier beach breaks. The local surf shop serves as a vital hub for surfers heading to nearby Huntington Beach, Newport, or San Clemente, providing essential gear, repairs, and wax before you hit the coast. Beyond surf essentials, Redlands charms visitors with its historic downtown district featuring Victorian architecture, craft breweries, and the famous Hangar 24 Craft Brewery. The city's proximity to both beaches and mountains makes it an ideal base camp for surf-and-explore trips. Local shop staff offer invaluable beta on current swell conditions, crowd levels, and which breaks are firing. Whether you need a wetsuit repair between sessions, fresh fins, or advice on where to paddle out, Redlands' surf community keeps you dialed in before making the drive to the Pacific.
Redlands is inland, so planning revolves around accessing nearby coastal spots like Huntington or Newport Beach. Summer months see higher tourist traffic heading to the coast, potentially increasing demand for rentals and advice. It is advisable to call ahead, especially if seeking specialized equipment or lessons for weekend trips. Local surf rhythms are dictated by Southern California swell patterns, generally peaking in fall and winter for the most consistent surf.
The documented local shop typically focuses on providing essential gear, accessories, and advice for travelers heading to the coast. Expect availability of soft-top rentals suitable for beginners learning at closer breaks, or perhaps board bags for transport. While major repairs might require coastal facilities, minor waxing, leash replacement, and wetsuit fitting services are standard. Inquire about local knowledge regarding the best beginner beaches accessible from Redlands.
Redlands itself is landlocked, so direct surfing lessons are unavailable here. The local shop primarily sells gear and offers advice for travelers. You will need to travel approximately one hour to the Orange County coast for hands-on instruction.
Rentals stocked by inland shops often cater to the traveling surfer or beginner. Expect foam boards or longer funboards suitable for smaller, gentler waves found closer to the region. Confirm dimensions and availability before making the drive.
Major ding repair services are rarely offered in inland locations like Redlands. Most shops recommend taking damaged boards directly to coastal repair specialists. They can usually advise on temporary plug kits for minor fixes.
Redlands offers a unique inland surf culture just an hour from Southern California's premier beach breaks. The local surf shop serves as a vital hub for surfers heading to nearby Huntington Beach, Newport, or San Clemente, providing essential gear, repairs, and wax before you hit the coast. Beyond surf essentials, Redlands charms visitors with its historic downtown district featuring Victorian architecture, craft breweries, and the famous Hangar 24 Craft Brewery. The city's proximity to both beaches and mountains makes it an ideal base camp for surf-and-explore trips. Local shop staff offer invaluable beta on current swell conditions, crowd levels, and which breaks are firing. Whether you need a wetsuit repair between sessions, fresh fins, or advice on where to paddle out, Redlands' surf community keeps you dialed in before making the drive to the Pacific.