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Surfing · New York

Surfing in New York

Surf 16 surf schools, camps and coaches across New York. Maps, hours, contact info, photos, and verified operator profiles, all in one place.

Adirondacks, Catskills, the Finger Lakes, and the Long Island shore.

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Highest rated

Surfing in New York by Google rating

Ranked by Google rating, then by number of reviews, across the 15 of 16 surf schools, camps and coaches in New York with 10 or more Google reviews. A blank cell means we do not have that detail yet.

NameCitySpecialtiesRating
Seasons Surf SchoolRockaway BeachBeginner Lessons5.074 Google reviews
The Surf Continuum - MontaukMontauk5.073 Google reviews
East End Surf ClubMontauk5.064 Google reviews
Engstrom Surf LessonsMontaukBeginner Lessons5.047 Google reviews
Coreyswave Professional Surf InstructionMontaukBeginner Lessons5.039 Google reviews
Mbx Surf CampWainscott5.019 Google reviews
Sea Soul Surf CompanyCommack5.019 Google reviews
Hampton Surf SchoolBridgehamptonBeginner Lessons5.011 Google reviews

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16 surf schools, camps and coaches in New York

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Surf schools in New York

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About New York

New York's surf sits in two main pockets, the south shore of Long Island and the Rockaway Peninsula out in Queens. It rarely makes the highlight reels, but the coast pulls consistent swell, most of it in the colder months. Rockaway Beach gives you a break you can reach on the subway; Montauk gives you something remote and scenic at the far end. Powerful low-pressure systems and hurricane swells feed the whole stretch, and the range of conditions keeps both grizzled locals and first-timers busy.

The state surfs by the calendar. Summer runs warm and small, often streaky, which is exactly the setup surf camps and beginners want for a first lesson. Come fall and winter the Atlantic wakes up, stacking heavier, more organized swell into the coast. Those seasons ask for thicker rubber and more skill and pay it back with real waves and empty lineups. Knowing which season you're walking into is most of a good trip here.

Behind the waves sits a solid support network: surf schools, camps, and coaches, clustered mostly in Long Beach, Rockaway Beach, and Montauk. They run everything from intro group lessons to private coaching, and most rent gear, so you can turn up empty-handed and still paddle out. The crowd is welcoming, but the usual rules on lineups and beach access still apply.

The part that makes New York unusual is the reach. The A train drops you at Rockaway Beach, the Long Island Rail Road carries you to spots further east, and a city of millions can trade the sidewalk for the ocean in an hour. That mix of urban ease and real wave energy builds a surf culture most people never expect the city to have.

When to surf in New York

Peak Aug–Oct

Full season

Quick facts

Surf schools, camps and coaches listed
16
Best season
May through October

Trip guide

Know before you go in New York

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

  • Beach Access and Parking Permits

    Many popular surfing beaches in New York, particularly those operated by state parks or local municipalities, require a valid parking permit or beach pass for access, especially during peak season. Requirements vary by location, so verify with the specific beach or park authority.

  • Commercial Operator Licensing

    Surf schools, camps, and coaches operating commercially in New York must adhere to general state and local business licensing requirements. This ensures compliance with health, safety, and operational standards, though specific 'surf school' licenses are not typically issued.

  • Designated Surfing Zones

    Many beaches have specific zones designated for surfing to ensure safety for both surfers and swimmers. Violating these designated areas can result in fines or removal from the water. Always check local signage or with lifeguards for current regulations.

  • Dune and Protected Area Regulations

    New York has strict regulations regarding walking on, disturbing, or damaging dunes and other protected coastal vegetation. Access to beaches should only be via designated pathways to prevent erosion and protect fragile ecosystems.

01What is the best time of year to surf in New York?
September through April is when the consistent, powerful swell shows up, driven by fall and winter storm systems. Summer runs smaller and streakier, better suited to beginners and learning than to chasing size.
02Do I need a wetsuit to surf in New York?
Most of the year, yes. Water temps fall hard from late fall through spring. In the July-to-early-September window, warmer water may let you get away with boardshorts or a shorty, but it varies day to day.
03Are there beginner-friendly surf spots in New York?
Plenty. Beach breaks along the Rockaway Peninsula and Long Island's South Shore, Long Beach and Jones Beach among them, are great for beginners, especially in summer when the waves run smaller and softer.
04Where can I find surf lessons or camps?
Lessons and camps are easy to find in the main hubs: Long Beach, Rockaway Beach, and Montauk. Most operators cover the full range from intro group sessions to private coaching, running hardest through summer.
05What are the typical water temperatures in New York for surfing?
They swing a lot across the year. Winter drops to 40-50°F, spring and fall sit at 50-65°F, and summer can climb to 70-75°F. Check current conditions and suit up accordingly.
06Are there any specific regulations or permits I need for surfing?
There's no dedicated surfing permit, but many beaches want a parking permit or beach pass in peak season. Check the local municipal or state park rules for access and designated surfing zones, and stay off the protected dunes.

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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.
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