Surfing in Florida: The Sunshine State’s Hidden Wave Scene
When most people think of surfing, their minds drift to the Pacific — Encinitas, O'ahu's North Shore, or the breaks of Costa Rica. But here’s a secret surfers already know: Florida has a thriving surf scene that can easily hold its own. From the mellow Atlantic rollers to the hurricane-fueled barrels, surfing in Florida is a year-round adventure shaped by sunshine, community, and a deep love of the ocean.
East Coast Gold: Where to Find the Best Waves
While Florida’s Gulf Coast is famous for calm waters and pastel sunsets, the real surf action happens along the Atlantic side. Here are a few iconic breaks every surfer should know:
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Sebastian Inlet – The crown jewel of Florida surfing. This spot has produced some of the state’s best surfers (including Kelly Slater) and offers consistent waves with a punchy sandbar setup that can deliver serious rides.
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Cocoa Beach – Known as the “Surfing Capital of the East Coast,” Cocoa Beach is mellow, friendly, and ideal for beginners. Grab a board, take a lesson, and maybe even pop into the Ron Jon Surf Shop, the largest surf shop in the world.
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New Smyrna Beach – A favorite among locals for its glassy waves and fun peaks, New Smyrna offers some of the most consistent surf in Florida. (Just remember, it’s also famous for its shark sightings — stay aware and stay smart!)
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Jacksonville Beach – A laid-back surf community with plenty of local charm and solid winter swells. Great for longboarders and shortboarders alike.
When to Go: Seasons of Surf
Florida’s surf is heavily influenced by the Atlantic’s moods.
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Summer (June–August): Small, playful waves perfect for beginners and longboarders.
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Fall (September–November): The magic season. Hurricane swells light up the coast, delivering the best waves of the year.
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Winter (December–February): Consistent cold fronts bring punchier waves, especially up north.
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Spring (March–May): A mixed bag — fun, warm, and great for intermediate surfers.
The Vibe: Chill, Sunny, and Always Welcoming
Florida’s surf culture is as relaxed as the weather. You’ll find friendly lineups, barefoot beach bars, and communities built around saltwater and sunshine. The locals take pride in their surf scene — it’s not about bravado or big-wave heroics, but the pure joy of being in the water.
Gear Up and Get Out There
You don’t need a thick wetsuit or a stockpile of boards to surf in Florida — just a board, a pair of shorts and a sense of adventure. Maui Rippers board shorts are the perfect fit for the Florida surf. The extra long 24" board short reduces abrasion from your thighs rubbing on the board. And our line of women's surf shorts come in multiple lengths for any beach activity. A soft-top or funboard will handle most days, though hurricane season might call for something shorter and faster.
And when the waves go flat? Florida’s coastlines offer plenty to do — paddleboarding, beach cruising, fishing, or just catching the golden sunset with a cold drink in hand.
In the end, surfing in Florida isn’t about chasing the biggest waves — it’s about chasing the good vibes. Whether you’re paddling out for the first time or hunting for the next perfect swell, the Sunshine State has something for every surfer under the sun.
