El Porto Beach

The camera looks out over El Porto, the northern stretch of Manhattan Beach, where waves roll steadily onto the sand. Surfers paddle out and wait in the lineup, while the wide sweep of Santa Monica Bay fills the background. The beach is easy to recognise by its long, straight shoreline and the break that draws riders of all levels.

Early mornings are often calm and clear, with soft light on the water and fewer people in the frame. Afternoons bring stronger onshore wind and choppier surf, and the beach fills with walkers and sunbathers. Winter swells tend to be larger, while summer days are usually gentler and brighter. Fog can soften the view at dawn.

El Porto sits at the northern end of Manhattan Beach in Los Angeles County, close to the border with El Segundo. The area has long been a favourite with local surfers because of its consistent waves. Visitors come for surfing, beach walks and the paved path along the shore, and the neighbourhood keeps a relaxed, residential feel.