Save San O

San Onofre State Beach in north San Diego County is a treasured asset for millions of people from across Southern California and beyond. Home to the Achajemen village of Panhe from time immemorial and since becoming an iconic surf destination for waveriders from around the world, San Onofre is today the fifth most visited state beach in the state. 

Since 1971, California has leased the 6.5-mile shoreline as a state park from the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton for $1. On August 31 of this year, the lease will expire. If Camp Pendleton and California State Parks cannot agree on a new lease, the future of San Onofre State Beach and access to its resources is unknown. Federal leasing statute requires the Department of Navy to receive cash or in-kind compensation equal to the fair market value of the leased land. It is expected that this value will be millions of dollars per year. 

According to a recent statement by State Parks, “both Marine Base Camp Pendleton and State Parks understand the importance of continuing the public access to San Onofre Beach Beach and will work collaboratively and respectfully with the Department of the Navy toward a final resolution, by the lease expiration in August 2024."

Fortunately, Camp Pendleton has stated that “they are dedicated to minimizing any impact to the public and will ensure that patrons retain uninterrupted access to the park regardless of lease renewal agreements.”

Surfrider is working with the San Onofre Parks Foundation and local stakeholders on the long term protection and resilience of San Onofre State Beach, including the public’s ability to access and enjoy this iconic shoreline. 

Surfrider is thrilled to announce that California State Parks and Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton have finalized a new lease agreement for San Onofre State Beach. The 25-year-long lease between State Parks and the Marine base ensures continued public access, management, and protection of this beloved coastal resource into the future.

This marks a significant win for the “San O” community and the thousands of visitors who visit here annually from around the country and the world. This victory also continues Surfrider’s ongoing campaign for uninterrupted public access and a resilient shoreline at San Onofre State Beach.