Rat Beach
United States · Californie
Rat Beach, nestled in a secluded cove south of Torrance Beach in California, is a popular spot among locals for its tranquil atmosphere and small waves. Accessible via a trail from the Malaga Cove parking lot, it offers a wild setting with fine sand at the foot of the Palos Verdes cliffs. It's an authentic corner where kiters come in small numbers for relaxed sessions.
Less crowded than nearby beaches, Rat Beach attracts intermediate riders who appreciate its open ocean and gently sloping bottom. The spot shares the area with Torrance Beach, often referred to as RAT for 'Right After Torrance', and remains a haven for those seeking peace away from the crowds.
Historical averages by month — not a live forecast.
The prevailing wind comes from the northwest or west, often side-onshore on this beach exposed to the ocean, creating a water surface with chop due to the wind and small to medium side-onshore waves due to swells. The water entry is directly from the fine sand, with a narrow launch area near the beach, to be monitored to avoid rocks to the south near Haggerty's. The navigation area extends into open ocean, ideal for runs parallel to the coast, but remains limited by cliffs and potential currents; the best days see over 100 kites in the air in adjacent areas like Torrance.
With the tides, the water surface varies little as the sandy bottom slopes gradually, but at low tide, the rocks are more exposed, making water entry technical. At high tide, it's smoother with water up to the knees far from the shore. Local peculiarity: it's one of the few legal spots for lessons in the area, but Rat Beach itself is quieter and less crowded, perfect for progressing without pressure.
Sources :secretlosangeles.com · se.kiteforum.com · xavisurf.com · discovertorrance.com · surfline.com · beaches.lacounty.gov
Open Windguru forecast