Waxing your surfboard at San Onofre requires a thoughtful approach that accounts for the beach’s legendary cobblestones and the classic longboarding culture that defines the break. To begin, you should find a level spot near your vehicle or on the sand to strip away any old, sandy residue before applying a fresh base coat of hard wax in a cross-hatched pattern. Given the year-round temperate waters of Southern California, a cool-water top coat is usually the best choice to achieve those essential “beads” that provide maximum traction for cross-stepping or hanging ten. It is wise to keep your board shaded under a towel or in a board bag while you wait for your set, as the intense San O sun can quickly turn a perfect wax job into a slippery, melted mess. Once you hit the water, the tacky surface will ensure your feet stay glued to the deck as you navigate the long, peeling waves of Old Man’s or The Point.