8 of the Best East Coast Surfing Spots in the US
Chris Moleskie October 3rd, 2018 Posted In: Articles Tags: Surfing
8 Best East Coast Surfing Spots in the United States
The quality of your surf trip depends on the quality of the surf. You can be all geared up only to arrive at a beach with tiny swells or completely calm waters. Avoid this disappointment by looking up beaches with great waves that you can depend on.
But if you’re on the East Coast, where should you go? If you’re looking for some of the best East Coast surfing spots out there, keep reading. We’ve compiled this list of 8 surfing spots back East that won’t disappoint.
1. Cisco Beach, Nantucket, MA
Go big or go home, right? So let’s start big with Cisco Beach.
Beginners should be wary with this spot: the swells are usually big and suitable for intermediate to experienced surfers. It’s known to be on the “rough” side of the island, so be prepared for rougher surf and a bit more wind. Beginners can find some waves here too. In fact, a surf school meets at this beach’s parking lot!
This beach also offers rental gear if you happen to forget something key, like a surfboard or a wetsuit (it happens to the best of us). With lifeguards stationed along the beach, you’ll also have some safety precautions ready.
2. Cocoa Beach, FL
Taking it from all the way up North down to the southern part of the East Coast we have Cocoa Beach, Florida. This is a well-known surfing spot that birthed the famous Kelly Slater, so it’s bound to be surf-famous. These easy and reliable waves are great for beginners, but surfers of all experience levels will enjoy the clear water of this awesome beach.
The only downside is that the beach itself can get quite crowded. However, these are usually beachgoers and not necessarily all surfers, so you’ll have plenty of space to ride the waves.
Ruggles, RI. Image courtesy of Magicseaweed.com.
3. Ruggles, Newport, RI
You might be skeptical to hear that one of the best spots for big, serious waves is in located in the smallest state in America, Rhode Island. Ruggles surprises us all by providing you with almost guaranteed breaking waves that should only be attempted by intermediate and experienced surfers.
You’ll also get to enjoy barrels here, which isn’t always the case with surf spots. Slide right through these famous waves at the farthest point on this beach. If you don’t mind colder waters, then Ruggles will provide you with great waves and superb ocean views that you have to experience when surfing the East Coast.
4. Kitty Hawk, Outer Banks, NC
The famous Outer Banks of North Carolina provide you with ample surf spots. You really can’t go wrong in this location, but if you want one of the best spots for East Coast surfing, Kitty Hawk is superior.
What makes Kitty Hawk better than other surf spots in Outer Banks? Its location is one of the best, right smack in the middle of the stretch of land known as the Outer Banks. This accessibility is features easy parking and access to surf rentals, shops, and food. But most importantly is that it’s dependable for the great surf. If you’re looking for huge waves, head here right after a storm. Pretty much any day during the summer and early fall will bring you waves perfect for surfing the day away.
5. St. Augustine Beach, FL
Cocoa beach was in Central Florida. While you’re there, take a quick 2-hour drive North and head to St. Augustine Beach for even more great surf. St. Augustine is great for beginners. It’s known as one of the best places to learn to surf in the sunshine state (that’s saying a lot considering there are 663 miles of beach in Florida).
Don’t think you’ll be bored if you’re an expert. Whether you’re a longboarder, a shortboarder, an expert, or a beginner, you’ll all find a wave at this versatile and fun spot.
6. Wrightsville Beach, NC
Outer Banks isn’t the only place for surfing in North Carolina. Wrightsville Beach in the southern part of North Carolina is just as well known, especially for their storm swells.
The positioning on the coast makes it the perfect spot for getting great storm-made waves, especially during hurricane season. Outside of hurricane season, you can get decent surf as well that’s perfect for beginners. The water’s warm as well, which you might prefer the colder waters of Nantucket and Rhode Island.
7. White Crest Beach, Wellfleet, MA
Speaking of colder water, let’s give you the northern-most surf spot yet: White Crest Beach on Cape Cod. Cape Cod beaches are often slept-on in terms of surfing, but you don’t want to skip these beaches if you want the best of the best.
White Crest Beach in Wellfleet is also known as “surfer’s beach,” which hints at why it made this list. It’s most well-known for the waves perfect for longboards, but all types of surfers will have fun at this surf spot. Watch out for the great white sharks!
8. Folly Beach, SC
With all the hype about North Carolina, it’s easy to forget about its southern cousin. South Carolina waves aren’t as intense as North Carolina, but Folly Beach is still a great spot to check out.
This surf mecca, also called “The Washout”, brings surfers from all over for the storm swells and the great location (a mere 20 minutes from Charleston). The positioning of this beach along the coast sets it up with a wind that whips up excellent, rolling surf.
8 of the Best East Coast Surfing Spots You Have to Check Out
While some surfers argue that the East Coast can’t stand up to the waves of the West Coast and Hawaii, these 8 best East Coast surfing spots might change their mind. Between awesome views and spectacular surf for those of all experience levels, these 8 spots might make you an East Coast believer.
Surfing abroad? Check out three of the best and lesser known surf spots on the planet.
FAQ: Best East Coast Surfing Spots
If you’re planning a surf trip along the Atlantic, you probably have a few questions before you load up your board and hit the road. From where to find the biggest waves to the best states for beginners, here are some of the most common questions about the best East Coast surfing spots—answered!
What East Coast state has the best surfing?
It depends on what you’re looking for, but North Carolina and Florida are often considered the top states for East Coast surfing. North Carolina delivers powerful, consistent waves, especially in the Outer Banks. While Florida offers more beginner-friendly, year-round surf.
What is the surf capital of the East Coast?
Cocoa Beach, Florida is widely known as the surf capital of the East Coast. It’s famous for its consistent waves, accessibility, and for being the hometown of legendary surfer Kelly Slater.
Where are the biggest waves on the East Coast?
Some of the biggest and most powerful waves can be found in places like the Outer Banks in North Carolina, Ruggles in Rhode Island, and parts of New England during strong storm swells. These spots are typically best suited for more experienced surfers.
Is the East Coast good for beginner surfers?
Yes, the East Coast has plenty of beginner-friendly surf spots. Beaches like Cocoa Beach and St. Augustine in Florida are known for their smaller, more forgiving waves, making them ideal for learning and improving.
When is the best time to surf on the East Coast?
The best time to surf on the East Coast is typically late summer through fall. This is when hurricane and storm activity in the Atlantic generates more consistent and powerful swells. However, you can still find rideable waves year-round, especially in Florida. And of course, remember to always be cautious and safe when surfing during this time of year where waves from hurricane activity can potentially be dangerous!
Which East Coast surf spots are best for advanced surfers?
Advanced surfers often gravitate toward spots like Ruggles in Rhode Island, Cisco Beach in Nantucket, and the Outer Banks in North Carolina. These locations can produce fast, hollow waves and heavier conditions that require more skill and experience.
Are East Coast waves as good as the West Coast?
While the West Coast and Hawaii are known for bigger and more consistent waves, the East Coast still offers excellent surf, especially during storm season. With the right timing and location, East Coast waves can be just as fun and rewarding.
What should you wear when surfing on the East Coast?
Water temperatures vary widely depending on location and season. In Florida, you may only need a springsuit or rash guard, while northern spots like Massachusetts and Rhode Island often require a thicker full wetsuit, especially in colder months.
Do you need a wetsuit for East Coast surfing?
In most cases, yes – especially outside of peak summer months! Northern East Coast surf spots can have cold water temperatures year-round, while even southern locations may require a wetsuit during winter and early spring.
Are East Coast surf spots crowded?
Some popular spots like Cocoa Beach and Folly Beach can get crowded, especially during peak seasons and weekends. However, many areas along the East Coast have less crowded breaks if you’re willing to explore a bit.
