Surfing is a strong a growing culture in the United States and with 23 states out of 50 that have exposure to an ocean coastline, it might be difficult to figure out which state has the best surfing conditions. 

Here are the top 5 states with the most surf spots in the country which should be added to any surfers’ bucket list.

1. Hawaii

Hawaii’s strong reputation in the surfing world is no longer a secret for anyone. It is definitely the best state for surfing in the U.S. with 4 major islands that all have world-class surf spots. The island of Oahu is home to prestigious breaks like Pipeline and Waikiki while Maui has one of the world’s biggest wave in Jaws.

With its tropical weather, lush scenery and a vibrant surfing culture, Hawaii is a must-visit surfing destination in the United States.

2. California

The state of California has also a strong surfing culture which started gaining strong momentum in the 1960’s. Ever since, California has been known as the most popular state for surfing on the United States mainland. 

With surf spots like Trestles, Santa Cruz, Huntington Beach and Malibu, California has waves to please all types of surfers and remains one of the best states for surfing in the U.S.

3. Florida

Home of Kelly Slater, the world’s greatest surfer of all time, Florida is another amazing state to visit on a surf trip. While sharks have caught a bit of attention lately, some surf towns like New Smyrna and Cocoa Beach are still amongst the best places to surf in the country.

4. New Jersey

Up along the east coast is the state of New Jersey which, according to Statista, is fourth on the list of states with the most surf spots. On a good hurricane swell in the early fall, the state of New Jersey turns into a wave machine and becomes without a doubt one of the best surfing states in the country.

5. Oregon

Surfing in Oregon might be cold, it remains an amazingly beautiful experience as most surf spots are empty or slightly crowded at worst. The state of Oregon is an under discovered gem in the United States when it comes to surfing and is greatly rewarding.

Read our complete surfing guide to Oregon 

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Summary

New Smyrna Beach, located just south of Daytona Beach on Florida’s Atlantic coast, is widely considered the most consistent surf spot in Florida. With fun waves nearly year-round and a relaxed surf-town vibe, New Smyrna attracts both locals and traveling surfers looking for reliable sessions.

It’s home to Ponce Inlet, one of the most famous waves in the state, and offers a variety of peaks suitable for all skill levels.

When to go

The best time to surf New Smyrna Beach and Ponce Inlet, in Florida, is from September to April which kicks off with the hurricane season in autumn, all the way into the winter months. For smaller waves, the summer months are still fairly consistent and enjoyable.

Surf spots in New Smyrna

Ponce Inlet (New Smyrna Beach)

One of Florida’s most famous and consistent surf breaks, Ponce Inlet delivers punchy, fast waves that can occasionally barrel. The south side of the jetty is particularly popular, but there are multiple peaks in the area.

• Wave direction : Right and left
• Bottom : Sand
• Best tide : Mid to high
• Skill level : Any
• Optimal swell direction : NE
• Optimal wind direction : SE

The North Jetty

The north side of the Ponce Inlet jetty (technically across the Inlet from New Smyrna Beach) can offer good rights, but it’s less popular and requires a longer paddle. Worth checking when the south side is too crowded.

• Wave Type: Beach break
• Direction: Right
• Bottom: Sand
• Best Tide: Mid to high
• Skill Level: Intermediate
• Optimal Swell: NE
• Optimal Wind: SW

New Smyrna Beach Main Peaks

South of Ponce Inlet, the main beach area offers multiple peaks that spread out the crowds. These waves are generally softer than the Inlet and are great for longboarding or relaxed shortboard sessions.

• Wave Type: Beach break
• Direction: Right and left
• Bottom: Sand
• Best Tide: Any
• Skill Level: Any
• Optimal Swell: E to SE
• Optimal Wind: W

Where to stay in New Smyrna

Recommended Surf Hotels:

• Best Value:

  • Hampton Inn New Smyrna Beach – Affordable, near the beach

  • Best Western New Smyrna Beach – Oceanfront with easy beach access

• High-End:

  • The Riverview Hotel & Spa – Upscale hotel with pool and spa

  • Black Dolphin Inn – Boutique waterfront property

Browse our interactive map to find the best accommodation deals in New Smyrna!

Getting there

New Smyrna Beach is very accessible:

• From Orlando: ~1-hour drive (best arrival airport: Orlando International Airport – MCO)

• From Daytona Beach: ~25 minutes

• From Jacksonville: ~2 hours

You can easily rent a car or use shuttle services from nearby airports.

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