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Surfing · Florida

Surfing in Florida

Surf 29 surf schools, camps and coaches across Florida. Maps, hours, contact info, photos, and verified operator profiles, all in one place.

Saltwater flats, springs, and the largest subtropical wilderness in the US.

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View 29 surf schools, camps and coachesGet listed free

Highest rated

Surfing in Florida by Google rating

Ranked by Google rating, then by number of reviews, across the 27 of 29 surf schools, camps and coaches in Florida with 10 or more Google reviews. A blank cell means we do not have that detail yet.

NameCitySpecialtiesRating
Nex Generation Surf SchoolCocoa BeachBeginner Lessons5.0459 Google reviews
Pit Surf ShopSt. Augustine5.0389 Google reviews
Vibe Surf School Fort LauderdaleDania BeachBeginner Lessons5.0317 Google reviews
One Love Surf LessonsCocoa BeachBeginner Lessons5.0153 Google reviews
Ride On Surf SchoolDestin5.0153 Google reviews
School of SurfCocoa BeachBeginner Lessons5.0127 Google reviews
Space Coast SurfCocoa Beach5.090 Google reviews
M&M Surf SchoolOrlando5.074 Google reviews

All listings

29 surf schools, camps and coaches in Florida

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On the map

Surf schools in Florida

Everything we have mapped in Florida, on one map. Tap anything for its details.

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About Florida

Florida's Atlantic coast runs a long way (cool temperate water up north, warm tropics down south), and along the whole of it there's almost always something to ride. Nobody comes here for size; they come for consistency. Atlantic groundswell, nor'easters, and hurricane-season activity keep rideable waves turning over, and the warm water and easy access make it one of the best places in the country to learn. Surf schools and camps have long been fixtures in hubs like Cocoa Beach and New Smyrna Beach, with lessons, rentals, and coaches for anyone at any level.

Central Florida is the beating heart of it. Cocoa Beach, hometown to some of the sport's biggest names, and New Smyrna Beach, known for reliable breaks and its share of sharks (which rarely amount to trouble), carry a surf culture that runs deep. The sandy-bottom beach breaks throw gentle, rolling waves that suit beginners and intermediates, and the camps here pair daily coaching with the local scene, leaning on infrastructure that's been in place for decades.

Head north toward Jacksonville and St. Augustine and the water cools while winter swells grow bigger and stronger, pulling in more seasoned surfers. Go the other way, Palm Beach down to Miami, and the surf turns fickle, quiet most of the time but capable of erupting when a tropical storm or hurricane spins up, serving real waves to advanced riders. Wherever you land, there are certified schools and private coaches ready to take you from a first lesson to fine-tuning technique.

When to surf in Florida

Peak Aug–Oct

Full season

Quick facts

Surf schools, camps and coaches listed
29
Best season
October through May

Trip guide

Know before you go in Florida

Federal permits, lotteries and timed-entry reservations in Florida, from Recreation.gov.

Confirm current requirements with the agency that sets them before your trip. Rules and fees change every season.

  • Surf School and Camp Permitting

    Surf schools and camps operating on public beaches or within state parks often require specific permits from local municipalities, county governments, or the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP). Operators must verify and secure all necessary local and state licenses.

    Florida DEP

  • Marine Wildlife Interaction

    Florida has strict regulations regarding interaction with marine wildlife, including manatees, sea turtles, and dolphins. Surfers, instructors, and students must maintain a safe, respectful distance and avoid disturbing protected species.

    Florida FWC

  • Beach Access and Parking

    Many Florida beaches have specific regulations regarding access hours, parking fees, and designated swimming/surfing zones. Visitors should verify local ordinances for their chosen surf spot to avoid fines or towing.

    Florida State Parks
01When is the best time to surf in Florida?
Fall (September-November), during hurricane season, and winter (December-March), when cold fronts and nor'easters generate swell, bring the most consistent waves. Summer runs smaller and gentler, good for beginners.
02Are there waves on the Gulf Coast of Florida?
The Atlantic side is the main event, but the Gulf can get waves too, mostly from strong cold fronts or tropical storms pushing across. That swell is less reliable and generally smaller, though local spots can fire for a few days at a stretch.
03Do I need a wetsuit to surf in Florida?
It depends on season and region. Summer water is warm enough for just swimwear. In winter, north and central Florida usually call for a 3/2mm fullsuit, while the south may need only a springsuit or shorty.
04What are the best spots for beginners in Florida?
The Central Florida beach breaks, parts of Cocoa Beach and New Smyrna Beach among them, are prime for beginners, with sandy bottoms and gentle, rolling waves. Surf schools work these breaks regularly.
05How do I find a reputable surf school or camp in Florida?
Look for certified instructors, strong reviews, and proper local permits. Established hubs like Cocoa Beach, New Smyrna Beach, and St. Augustine offer several highly rated options. Check their safety protocols and instructor-to-student ratios.
06Are rip currents a concern for surfers in Florida?
Yes, and a serious one, especially on bigger swell or strong tides. Stay aware of conditions, surf near lifeguard-patrolled areas when you can, and know how to spot and escape a rip current safely.

Free tools

Your free outdoor toolkit

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Surf ForecastSwell, wind, and tide for the days ahead, broken out by spot. Free, no paywall.
Wetsuit GuideThe water temperature at any surf spot this week, and what each wetsuit maker's own chart says to wear in it.
Gear ChecklistsPrintable, save-as-you-go packing lists. Tick items off and pull them up on your phone.
Surf ClubsBrowse local clubs with meeting info and how to join, or start your own for free.
Maintenance SchedulesPick your equipment and get its full service schedule. Add your usage to turn intervals into dates.
Everything MapListings, trails, spots, clubs and public land on a single full-screen map. Switch layers on and off, then tap any point for the details.