The Best Places to Go Surfing in South Florida

If the conditions are right, grab your board and head to the southern end of South Beach in Miami. Just across South Pointe Park, just before the pier (which has decent fishing), you’ll find the heaviest spot – a steep barrelling wave that works best on a northerly swell. It can get crowded – especially when firing – so make sure you have your wits about you and assess the conditions before you go in.

On the northern tip of Miami Beach lies the Haulover Beach inlet, where waves are generally small and messy, thanks to onshore winds. However, when the northerly swell rolls in and wind comes from the west, you’ll find a few decent right- and left-handers. Come in October for the best chance of waves – otherwise you won’t catch a single rideable ripple in Miami’s flat waters.

A favorite surf spot for decades, the Jupiter Inlet on Jupiter Beach consists of two sandbar breaks – the south side right-hander being the most well-known. Just watch out for the strong rip, otherwise you’ll be heading out to sea before you know it. Beginners should book a lesson with Aloha Surfing School – they offer group lessons for adults, as well as surf camps for kids during school vacations.

For big waves reaching heights of 15ft (4.6m), head to Reef Road in West Palm Beach. Keep an eye out on a northeasterly swell – particularly during the winter – as this is when Reef Road really kicks up a storm. Watch out for rogue sets steamrolling through on those larger days. Beyond the beach, this upscale area boasts boutique shops, fancy restaurants, art galleries and theaters – to keep the non-surfers in the group entertained.

South of Palm Beach, Boynton Beach inlet produces long, hollow lefts when a big northeast swell combines with a low incoming tide. The beautiful long strip of shoreline is one of the most beautiful beaches in Florida, but beware of the sharks. That aside, there are plenty of surf shops if you need any equipment. Visit Nomad Surf Shop or North 2 Board Sports.

Not too far from Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach shines with brilliant coastline and consistent waves – it’s one of the most popular spot for surfing in Broward County. Head here when swell over 3ft (0.9m) is forecast and you’ll find hollow barrels producing rideable waves. Surfers of all levels will find suitable waves here, plus there’s less localism than other spots. If you need new gear, head to 2nd St Surf Shop right across the street.