San Diego -- Despite a high surf advisory issued for San Diego County, local beaches saw plenty of visitors out to enjoy Thursday's weather.

On Thursday, local beaches saw some large waves, especially at west-facing beaches in the southern part of the county. The waves were predicted to be in the 8- to 12-foot range.

Many surfers avoided going into the water, for the most part. San Diego lifeguards Sgt. Ed Harris said the lack of surfers in the water was most likely because of "the wind and the bump on it."

However, there were still a few testing out the sizable waves, including one surfer who had to be rescued after he broke his board by the Ocean Beach Pier.

"These are strong conditions, so if you're not an experienced surfer, we ask that you not come out and leave it to the pros and the people who surf a lot," Harris said.

Several Ocean Beach visitors appeared to be taking Harris's advice and stayed on the beaches so they could enjoy the warm weather.

"I'm originally from New York and if it's 80 degrees in January, there's a law that says we have to go to the beach for at least an hour," Ocean Beach resident Amy Lisewski said. "So we drop everything and go."

The waves are set to build throughout Thursday evening and into Friday. Harris said there will likely be several more surfers coming to try out the waves before the advisory ends 2 a.m. Saturday.

Residents who live near beaches are advised to keep a close eye on the waves, as minor flooding is possible at the peak of high surf.