California with Bohanel Boards: The Ultimate Guide to Skateboarding, Along the SoCal Coast

Southern California (SoCal) is world-renowned for it’s vibrant skate culture, stunning coastal scenery, and perfect year-round weather. Whether you’re a skateboarder mastering tricks, a surfskater carving like you’re riding waves, or a longboarder cruising along beachside roads, the SoCal coast offers something for every type of rider. From iconic skateparks to scenic oceanfront promenades, this guide covers the best spots, tips, and local highlights to maximize your SoCal skate adventure.

Why SoCal is a Skateboarding Mecca

The SoCal coast isn’t just a destination; it’s a lifestyle. Here’s why it’s a paradise for skaters:

• Surfskating: With its strong surfing culture, SoCal is the perfect place to mimic wave riding on land. Coastal paths and hills make for excellent carving practice.
• Longboarding: Beachfront bike paths, smooth roads, and scenic hills provide ideal terrain for longboarders looking to cruise or bomb hills.
• Skateboarding: As the birthplace of modern skateboarding, SoCal boasts legendary skateparks, vibrant street spots, and a community that embraces the sport’s roots.

The SoCal vibe, paired with endless sunshine, creates a skateboarding utopia.

Top Skateboarding, Surfskating, and Longboarding Spots Along the SoCal Coast

1. Venice Beach Skatepark (Los Angeles)

Venice Beach is an iconic skateboarding destination. The skatepark, located right on the sand, features bowls, rails, and ledges for skaters of all levels. It’s not just a place to ride—it’s a cultural landmark. Surfskaters will also love practicing flow and style here while soaking in the lively beachfront energy.

2. The Strand (Manhattan Beach to Hermosa Beach)

This famous beachside bike path stretches along the coast and is a favorite among longboarders and surfskaters. With smooth pavement, ocean views, and a laid-back atmosphere, The Strand offers a perfect mix of cruising and carving.

3. Huntington Beach Bike Path (Huntington Beach)

Huntington Beach, also known as “Surf City USA,” isn’t just for surfers—it’s a paradise for skaters too. The Huntington Beach Bike Path runs along the coast, offering a long, smooth stretch of pavement perfect for longboarding and surfskating. With epic ocean views, an energetic beach scene, and plenty of space to ride, it’s a must-visit for anyone on wheels. The Huntington Beach Skatepark, just inland, is another great spot to session if you’re looking for a mix of street and bowl skating. This is what we filmed on the coast with few friends. There is also a good Mexican restaurant that is right next to the main shopping road.

4. San Clemente Skatepark (Orange County)

Located in the heart of Orange County, this well-designed skatepark has features for both street and vert skaters. The local skate scene here is strong, and the park’s smooth transitions are great for riders working on flow and tricks.

5. Santa Monica Beach Path (Santa Monica)

This iconic path is a path that will drive you for miles perfect for longboarders and surfskaters looking to cruise along the Pacific Ocean. The flat, paved stretch runs alongside Santa Monica’s vibrant beach scene, offering plenty of space to carve, glide, or just relax and enjoy the view.

6. La Jolla Shores (San Diego)

La Jolla Shores provides a scenic and mellow environment for longboarding and surfskating. The surrounding coastal roads and parking areas are ideal for practicing smooth turns and soaking in the picturesque cliffs and ocean breezes.

7. SoCal’s Hidden Downhill Ride – Uber to the Hills

One of the most thrilling and underrated ways to experience SoCal’s skate scene is to grab an Uber, head up the hills, and glide down a bike track for over an hour and a half. This is a must-try for longboarders and surfskaters looking for an extended, high-speed but you can slow if you want, scenic descent. The feeling of effortlessly rolling down the winding paths, surrounded by nature, makes for an unforgettable ride. If you’re up for the adventure, bring good wheels, safety gear, and a friend—it’s an experience like no other. Especially if you go with the legendary Paul Schmitt (@professorschmitt) that made millions and millions of 7ply Canadian maple skateboards in his factory. A true legend known for his brand PS stix.

Tips for Skating in SoCal

1. Know Your Times: Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to ride, especially on bike paths, which can get busy during peak hours.
2. Stay Sun-Safe: The SoCal sun is no joke. Wear sunscreen, bring a hat, and stay hydrated while skating.
3. Check Traffic Rules: For longboarders and surfskaters cruising on roads, stay aware of traffic rules and watch for cars, especially on busy coastal streets.
4. Respect Other Riders and Pedestrians: Beachfront paths are shared spaces, so be mindful of walkers, joggers, and bikers while skating.
5. Plan Your Downhill Rides: If you’re heading up to the hills for a long descent, make sure the route is safe, check for bike-friendly lanes, and be prepared for varying speeds.

Best Gear for SoCal’s Coastline

• Surfskates: Boards like Carver, YOW, or SmoothStar are perfect for carving and flow along SoCal’s coastal bike paths and rolling hills.
• Longboards: Drop-through longboards or pintails are ideal for the long, smooth stretches of paths in Santa Monica, Huntington Beach, and Carlsbad.
• Skateboards: A classic street deck is perfect for skateparks like Venice Beach or San Clemente.

Don’t have your gear? Many skate and surf shops along the SoCal coast offer rentals and demos to get you rolling.

SoCal’s Skateboarding Culture and Events

SoCal is where skateboarding began, and the culture here remains as alive as ever. From legendary skateparks to skateboarding competitions and community meetups, you’ll feel the heartbeat of the sport everywhere. Annual events like the Venice Beach Surfskate Meetups, Huntington Beach Longboard Sessions, and the Cali Longboard Rides bring skaters together from around the world to share their love for skating and the coastal lifestyle.

Conclusion: Ride the SoCal Coastline on Wheels

The Southern California coast is a skater’s paradise, blending legendary skateboarding culture with breathtaking coastal scenery. From the bustling energy of Venice Beach Skatepark to the serene carving paths of La Jolla, the vibrant scene at Huntington Beach, and the adrenaline rush of an hour-long downhill ride from the hills, SoCal offers an unmatched skating experience for every type of rider.

So grab your board, hit the pavement, and soak in the golden glow of the SoCal sun as you explore this iconic region on wheels. Whether you’re chasing flow, speed, or just good vibes, the SoCal coast will leave you inspired and ready for more.