Mastering the art of surfing in the South requires a unique blend of patience and resourcefulness compared to athletes residing on the vibrant West Coast in places like California and Hawaii. While the waves in the Atlantic Ocean may not always reach the same heights or consistency, those who are privy to the secret spots can find a truly gratifying experience. Nestled in the South lies one of the region’s top surfing havens – New Smyrna Beach, Florida. With a population of less than 35,000 and situated just south of the bustling Daytona Beach, this laidback town boasts a serene atmosphere perfect for surfers seeking a peaceful wave-riding escape.
The allure of New Smyrna stems from its reputation as one of the East Coast’s prime surfing destinations, offering a consistent supply of swells throughout the year. While the waves typically stay within a modest height range (unless it’s the hurricane season), surfers can almost always count on catching a set to ride, with flat days being a rare occurrence. The surf culture ingrained in New Smyrna Beach runs deep, with the town’s rich surfing history showcased at the New Smyrna Museum of History. This exhibit chronicles over 50 years of surfing legacy, dating back to the early 1960s when the sport first emerged in the area.
Renowned surfers like Kem McNair and Charley Baldwin elevated New Smyrna’s status in the 1970s by clinching East Coast surfing titles, putting the town on the surfing map. Today, New Smyrna continues to shine in the surfing world, hosting top-tier competitions organized by the American Professional Surfing Association annually. Esteemed surfers such as Kelly Slater, Evan Geiselman, and Lisa Anderson still frequent the waves of New Smyrna, offering enthusiasts the chance to rub shoulders with surfing legends. Recognized by National Geographic as one of the globe’s top 20 surf towns in 2012, New Smyrna Beach has also earned accolades from Surf Magazine as a premier surfing destination.
Spanning 17 miles of coastline, New Smyrna Beach provides ample space for surfers to enjoy the waves without feeling crowded. While several popular spots along the beach draw more visitors and offer bigger waves, such as Smyrna Dunes Park on the northern end and Ponce Inlet, there are also hidden gems like Bethune Beach Park on the southern tip where surfers can catch less crowded waves during south swells.
Whether you are a seasoned pro or a beginner looking to catch your first wave, New Smyrna Beach offers a welcoming and diverse surfing environment that promises an unforgettable experience.
Reporting out. Local businesses and surf shops such as the Jimmy Lane Surfing Academy, Surfin’ NSB, and Nichols Surf Shop (which has been open since 1969 and is the town’s oldest surf shop) all employ seasoned instructors who are more than prepared to assist beginners in experiencing the excitement of catching their first wave. Read the original article on Southern Living.
