What to expect California boasts some prime surfing spots, more McDonalds than you could visit in a lifetime, and more beautiful people than you could ever imagine.

When to go In the winter you’ll need a 3mm full suit. In the summer you just need a short sleeve spring suit. The non-wuss can go without a suit during July and August. Winter’s probably the best for surf – La Jolla really ropes in the swell plus there’s snow in the mountains. The weather is super nice with lots of sun and temperature getting up to around 20°C.

Where to surf Beginner and intermediate surfers could battle the crowds at beachbreaks such as Huntington Beach. Advanced surfers should head for the numerous reefbreaks of La Jolla and one of the best beachbreaks – Black’s.

What will £20 buy you? About ten gut-plugging Burritos, eight McDonald’s cheeseburgers, two CDs, enough petrol to drive to the mountains and back in the winter to go snowboarding, or petrol and insurance for a day trip into Mexico for a surf.