Surfing in Florida
Where to surf, when the waves are best, and surf lessons. Surf lessons coming soon.
Florida’s Atlantic coast has a real surf culture, centered on Cocoa Beach on the Space Coast. Waves are smaller than California’s most of the year, which makes Florida a great place to learn, and fall nor’easters and hurricane swells bring the best days.
Where is the best surfing in Florida?
The Space Coast is the heart of Florida surfing: Cocoa Beach for beginners and lessons, and Sebastian Inlet for the most consistent waves. New Smyrna Beach, Jacksonville Beach and Palm Beach are also popular. The Gulf coast only gets surf during storms.
Read Cocoa Beach, the surf capital of the U.S., Surfing Florida and Surf’s up, dude. Flat day? Go fishing instead. Surf lessons with iOutdoors are coming soon.
Where and when to surf
| Spot | Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cocoa Beach | Beginner to intermediate | Surf schools, rental shops and the pier |
| Sebastian Inlet | Intermediate to advanced | Florida’s most consistent break |
| New Smyrna Beach | All levels | Busy inlet break |
| Jacksonville Beach | All levels | North Florida’s surf hub |
Best season: September through April, when nor’easters and passing storms send swell. Summer is often flat, which is good for first lessons.
Surf lessons: coming soon
We are talking with Space Coast surf schools. Tell us your dates and group size and we will let you know as soon as lessons open.
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Florida surfing FAQ
Where is the best place to learn to surf in Florida?
Cocoa Beach has gentle waves and several surf schools.
When are the best waves in Florida?
September through April, especially during nor’easters and passing hurricanes offshore.
Can you surf on Florida’s Gulf coast?
Only during storms or strong cold fronts. The Atlantic side has much more consistent surf.
Does iOutdoors offer surf lessons?
Surf lessons are coming soon. Use the form above or call or text (407) 392-4593.