New Smyrna Beach Surf Guide
Surf spot guide
Ideal Surf Conditions
Swell Direction
Northeast to east-northeast
Wind
SW-WNW
Surf Height
Knee high to 1' overhead
Tide
Medium to high tide
New Smyrna Beach Surf Guide
New Smyrna Beach, on the south side of Ponce Inlet, is the most consistent surf break in Florida, if not the entire East Coast. When the whole world is flat, you can usually find a wave here. Furthermore, people flock to fill the miles of beach between the entrance and the Inlet — enough space that driving on the sand is not only necessary, it's encouraged. The water isn't any less clogged. While there's space to spread out, there's usually a surfer at every hole. NSB is best on NE to ENE swells with incoming tide; however, it works on most anything and can actually boost the size a bit. It may be one-foot along the beach, but right next to the Inlet it may be three times the size. At lower tides on bigger swells, waves often break on the far outside sandbar, called Shark Shallows.
Ability Level
Intermediate - Advanced
High performance wave, so best for the more experienced surfers at the better peaks. Plenty of area to spread out though especially to the south.
Local Vibe
Intimidating
Oh yeah, give them space.
Crowd Factor
Heavy
Packed with surfers from all over.
Spot Rating
Perfect
A frame wedgey peak playground, super consistent and rarely flat. Easy to surf but not a spot for newer surfers.
Shoulder Burn
Medium
Higher than normal for paddle battles alone.
Water Quality
Clean
Clean for the most part.
Hazards
Sharks, locals, speeding cars -- keep your eyes peeled from the beach to the peak.
Bring Your
Shortboard
Access
Drive on the beach, but don't park too close to the dunes or you will be ticketed.
Bottom
Sand
Best Season
Waves all year but fall/winter best
Do you have local knowledge about New Smyrna Beach?
If you have any insights or information to add to this spot guide, drop us a note at [email protected]