10 Best Surf Spots in Florida—From Hidden Breaks to Iconic Beaches

Chances are that surfing may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Florida, but the state’s nearly 8,500 miles of coastline mean that there are a ton of great places to catch a wave.

Florida’s surf culture is embedded in tucked-away spots, like Palm Beach’s Reef Road, as well as in more popular hubs like Cocoa Beach. While Florida’s reputation is built on warm water and soft sand, the state’s best-kept secret is its surprisingly consistent surf, which draws a dedicated tribe of wave riders to its shores.

For your next trip to Florida, here are 10 great beaches where you can ride some waves:

Located just 30 minutes from Fort Lauderdale, Deerfield Beach is an excellent spot for surfers of all levels. If you’re here in the summer, the water is generally calm, making it great for beginners. For experienced surfers, the best times to visit are fall and winter, when the biggest swells hit, typically peaking in November. When the waves arrive, the best place to be is the main break, right next to the Deerfield Beach Pier, the town’s 1,000-foot fishing pier. For lessons, head to Island Water Sport, which offers free lessons every Saturday morning on a first-come, first-served basis. The company also offers affordable clinics and private classes. 

Delray Beach has established itself as a buzzy hot spot, and the nightlife along Atlantic Avenue (nicknamed The Ave) is the place to be seen on the weekends. But don’t let the chic surrounding bar scene fool you. This popular beach has a surf culture with deep roots dating back to the 1950s, and it still holds onto its authentic, laid-back vibe. Make a beeline for the warm water of Delray Beach, where the best surf conditions are on the south end of the public beach. If you need rentals, there are a few outposts on the beach, like Surf District, which offers surfboards and private surf lessons. 

One of South Florida’s swankiest destinations is also home to a pretty sweet surf spot. Palm Beach is a barrier island filled with millionaire homes and upscale shopping, but the tiny beach off Reef Road is one of the best surf spots in South Florida. Thanks to the beach’s deep water reef, the beach produces huge waves that can reach 10 to 15 feet, especially in the winter. This beach has been a magnet for pro surfers since the 1960s, and for good reason: it’s a challenging break best suited for experienced riders. The nearby Nomad Surf Shop is a family-owned outfitter offering lessons and rentals.

Sebastian Inlet defines central Florida’s surf scene. Located about two hours north of Palm Beach, this legendary break is widely considered the best wave in the state. The surf culture here runs deep, and many of the local surfers are second-generation riders. Surfers from all over the world come here to ride Monster Hole and First Peak, two popular surf spots in Sebastian Inlet State Park. The area also hosts major surf tournaments throughout the year, like the Florida State Surfing Competition. Need gear? Head to Wabasso Beach and Surf Shop, which offers a wide range of surf and beach essentials for the whole family.

Widely regarded as one of Florida’s most consistent surf spots, Cocoa Beach’s primary claim to fame is its deep connection to world champion Kelly Slater. An hour’s drive from Orlando, this barrier island town offers smaller, gentler waves, making it an ideal spot for beginners. The heart of the local surf scene is the original Ron Jon Surf Shop. Clocking in at an immense 52,000 square feet, it’s the largest surf shop in the world and is also home to the Florida Surf Museum, which chronicles the history of the sport in the state. Ready to paddle out? For the best waves, head to the iconic Cocoa Beach Pier. If you need gear or a lesson, local outfitters like Cocoa Beach Surf School or Cocoa Beach Surf Company have you covered.

Another East Coast gem is New Smyrna Beach. Popular since the 1960s, the beach’s warm water and welcoming beach vibe have kept it in the surf circuit for over 50 years. You won’t necessarily find the biggest waves here, but the surf is consistent, which is why the area has frequently been awarded as one of the best surfing destinations in the South. For both gear and lessons, a top local spot is Nicolas Surf Shop. A beloved institution since 1969, it’s always stocked with the latest equipment and offers great instruction. If you’re solely focused on lessons, two other highly-rated options are Jimmy Lane Surfing Academy and Surfin’ NSB. 

While the Daytona 500 is the city’s headlining event, surfing is also a top draw on this popular beach. Considered one of Florida’s original surf towns, travelers can expect waves of up to 2-3 feet, with the fall and winter seasons offering the best swells. For the best action, head to the break next to the Main Street Pier. While the main break offers the best action for experienced riders, a shallow sandbar nearby creates gentle, low-key waves, making it a great spot for beginners and kids. If you’re here to learn how to ride the waves, you’re in luck with surfing schools like Dahlia Surf School and Pure Life Surf School offering group and private lessons. 

Drive about 30 minutes north of Daytona, and you’ll find that the waves at Flagler Beach are just as legendary as some of the big-name surfers who grew up in the area, like four-time world surfing champion Frieda Zamba. The town’s pro surf culture is on full display during its annual contests. Events like the Tommy Tant Memorial Surf Classic in November offer a front-row seat to watch top-tier surfers take on the local break. While you’re here, check out the local surf shack like Z Wave Surf Shop, which offers new and used boards, surfing accessories, and beach chair and umbrella rentals. 

Perfect for both first-timers and pros, Jacksonville Beach is a welcoming spot with a wave for every skill level. Surfers have been coming here for generations, drawn to the warm waves and friendly beachside cafes and surf shops. Pick up a custom board from Sunrise Surf Shop or Jax Beach Surf Shop, then grab a post-surf bite at the surf-themed RP’s Fine Food & Drinks. Also consider planning a trip around the Super Girl Surf Pro in November, the world’s largest women’s surfing competition and festival.

Pensacola is known for its sugary white sand beaches and clear water, and the area has the bonus of being a top surf spot. Pensacola’s wide sandy beaches and manageable waves make this a top contender for travelers with small children.  Although Pensacola is in the Gulf, keep in mind that it does get chilly during the winter, and surfing here requires cold-weather gear in the winter months. Looking to take a lesson? Support a local outfitter by booking lessons with one of the many locally owned surf shops like Gulf Coast Surf Lessons, Innerlight, or Waterboyz.