Surfing in Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach is one of the most popular surfing destinations on the East coast, located on Florida’s central coast. This barrier island offers consistent swell and is known for a high concentration of beach break waves. Before you head to Florida for your surf vacation, check out this comprehensive guide to all things surfing in Cocoa Beach.

Cocoa Beach Surf Spots and Conditions

Cocoa Beach is often hailed as the surf capital of the East coast, and for good reason. The waves in Cocoa Beach are surf-suitable year round, thanks to the area’s mild winters and consistent swell. One consideration you’ll need to take into account when surfing Cocoa Beach in the winter is a wetsuit – while the air is still comfortable, the water is much cooler. Some of the best surf weather in Cocoa Beach comes in the fall, when northeasterly swells flow in. Just be mindful of hurricane swells during this time of year!

Some of the most popular surf spots in Cocoa Beach are Cocoa Beach Pier, Picnic Tables across from Patrick Air Force Base, Lori Wilson Park, Spanish House, and Sebastian Inlet.

Cocoa Beach Pier

This pier built in 1962 is a great surf spot in Cocoa Beach. Offering typical pier break waves, Cocoa Beach Pier is mostly a novelty spot for visitors and less likely to see surfing locals.

Picnic Tables

Picnic Tables, across from Patrick Airforce Base, is another popular surf spot in Cocoa Beach. The standard beach break setup and peaky waves make Picnic Tables a great spot for beginner surfers and visitors who want to get the feel of the surf before heading out to a spot with bigger waves.

Lori Wilson Park

Consistent waves at Lori Wilson Park earned it a slot on this list of the best surf spots in Cocoa Beach. The waves at Lori Wilson typically hold in the slightly overhead range, a perfect place for surfers of all abilities.

Spanish House

Spanish House is a sandbar in Cocoa Beach named after the Spanish-style home that sits in front of the break. There is an inside bar that picks up swells, particularly northeastern swells, and can send out powerful hollow waves for experienced surfers to enjoy. Locals love this spot, so treat it with special respect.

Sebastian Inlet

One of the best places to surf in Cocoa Beach is Sebastian Inlet. Crowds from all over the state come to surf these waves, so be ready to navigate some crowds and wait for a swell.

Planning Your Surf Vacation

Planning a surf trip to Cocoa Beach? Search for accommodations near the best surf spots to avoid having to drive to the beach and find parking – you don’t want to miss out on valuable surf time. Oceanfront spots like Resort on Cocoa Beach give you quick access to the waves.

Always check surf forecasts and conditions before you surf, both in the weeks and days leading up to your trip and before you head out day-of. Always be mindful of the weather forecast as well, as weather conditions can change quickly on the coast. Popular surf reports for Cocoa Beach include Surfline, Surf Guru, and Surf Captain.

Surf Lessons and Schools

Everyone can benefit from surf lessons! Whether it’s been a while since you paddled out or you’ve never surfed before, taking lessons can help you gain confidence on your board and in the water, making it safer and more fun for you to surf. Plus, tips from seasoned surf teachers can help enhance your surf abilities.

Popular places to take surf lessons in Cocoa Beach include Ron Jon Surf School, School of Surf in downtown Cocoa Beach, and Cocoa Beach Surf School.

Surfboard and Equipment Rentals

Whether you’re a beginner surfer or found yourself in Florida without your board, plenty of places in Cocoa Beach can provide you with all of the equipment you need for a successful surf trip. From the surfboards themselves to apparel and accessories, you’ll find everything you need in Cocoa Beach.

Selecting the right board and accessories for your needs and skill level can be tricky. Chat with store associates and let them help you find the perfect surf setup for you! Some of the most popular surfboard and equipment rental companies in Cocoa Beach are Ron Jon’s Watersports Rentals, Cocoa Beach Surf Company, A1A Beach Rentals, and Oceansports World Cocoa Beach.

Local Surf Events and Culture

Looking for surf events and competitions in Cocoa Beach? Check out these fun events where you can meet fellow surfers and soak up the good vibes:

Sober Surfers Compete at ESA CFL Stop #5 | October 12, 2024

Space Coast Surfrider | November 2, 2024

Cocoa Beach Surfing Santas | December 24, 2024

Ron Jon Beach ‘N Boards Fest | March 12 – 16, 2025

The surf community in Cocoa Beach places a special emphasis on respect for their beaches and surfers. In addition to standard surf competitions, you’ll also find surf events like Surfrider’s Space Coast that combine surfing with beach cleanup, and consistent gatherings for Cocoa Beach’s sober surfers.

Surfing Safety and Etiquette

When in Cocoa Beach, do as the locals do. Treat the beaches with respect, and stay hyper aware of your surroundings in the water. The best waves are typically reserved for the best surfers, so be sure to check for other surfers before you paddle out to a wave and follow suit if others fall back for another surfer. In the same vein, if you’re a great surfer, don’t be afraid to claim a wave! Just do so safely.

Want to learn more about surf etiquette in Cocoa Beach? The area’s surf shops are a great resource. The majority of employees are surfers themselves, and can offer great insight on the best places to surf in Cocoa Beach and how to do it safely.

Where to stay in Cocoa Beach

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to surf this iconic coastal destination. Book your Florida vacation at one of our Cocoa Beach resorts today and prepare for the surf trip of your dreams!