14 Verified Surf Shops

Surf Shops in St. Augustine

St Augustine combines America's oldest city charm with a thriving surf community supported by 14 verified shops serving both coasts. The city's unique position gives surfers access to Atlantic swells on the east and Intracoastal options when conditions shift. Local shops stock everything from beginner soft-tops to high-performance shortboards, with many offering same-day ding repairs and wax recycling programs. You'll find experienced shapers who understand Florida's finicky wave conditions and can dial in the right board for shifting sandbars. Beyond surf gear, these shops provide invaluable intel on tides, currents, and which breaks are firing. Between sessions, explore 450 years of history in the colonial quarter, grab fresh seafood on St George Street, or catch sunset at the Castillo de San Marcos. The combination of consistent surf access, knowledgeable shop staff, and rich cultural attractions makes St Augustine a worthy destination for any traveling surfer.

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Why surfers love St. Augustine

Planning tips before you visit

The best surf conditions in St. Augustine typically occur during the fall and winter months when Atlantic swells are more consistent, often requiring a thicker wetsuit. Spring brings smaller, more manageable waves suitable for longboarding practice. Summer sessions are best approached early morning to avoid afternoon thunderstorms and heavy onshore winds. Given the high volume of visitors, booking lessons or gear rentals, especially on weekends between Memorial Day and Labor Day, is highly recommended a few days in advance.

Services & gear you'll find here

The city's 14 documented surf shops offer comprehensive services, including short-term and weekly board rentals suitable for various wave types. Most maintain repair facilities for dings and pressure dents, crucial after navigating the coquina-bottom breaks. Several local shapers offer custom board orders, though lead times can extend during peak season. Expect retail inventory focused on reef-safe sunscreens, wetsuits appropriate for cooler Florida waters, and local-themed apparel.

FAQs about surf shops in St. Augustine

For summer and early fall sessions (water temperatures above 75°F), board shorts or a spring suit are usually sufficient. During the winter months (low 60s°F), a quality 3/2mm full suit is standard. Some shops rent these thicker suits during the colder peak season.

The primary hazard is navigating the coquina sandbars and occasional shallow breaks near the inlet. Visibility can be reduced after heavy rain. Always check local surf reports for current rip current warnings, which are common along the exposed coastline.

Yes, nearly all St. Augustine surf shops stock high-volume foam boards and soft-tops specifically for beginners. These are stable and safe for learning. It is advisable to reserve these popular beginner boards ahead of time, particularly on weekends.