3 Verified Surf Shops

Surf Shops in Portland

Portland offers a unique blend of rugged New England coastline and vibrant urban culture that makes it an unexpected gem for surfers. The city's three dedicated surf shops provide essential services including wetsuit rentals, board repairs, and crucial local break knowledge—critical for navigating Maine's cold-water conditions and rocky points. These shops stock proper cold-water gear and can direct you to spots like Higgins Beach and Ferry Beach that work best on different swells and tides. Beyond the waves, Portland's Old Port district delivers exceptional seafood, craft breweries, and walkable waterfront charm. The city serves as an ideal base for exploring southern Maine's coastline, with surf shops offering insider beta on when and where to paddle out. Whether you're gearing up for a dawn session or need a wetsuit patch between swells, Portland's surf community provides the expertise and equipment to make the most of New England's challenging but rewarding waves.

Back to all Maine shops

Why surfers love Portland

Planning tips before you visit

Surfing in Portland, Maine, peaks during the fall when hurricane remnants bring the most consistent swells, requiring thick wetsuits. Spring offers manageable, albeit smaller, waves. During deep winter, sessions are challenging due to ice and extreme cold. Summer is generally flat, better suited for SUP. Shops are generally busy on weekends year-round; booking lessons or specialized rentals in advance, especially from September through November, is highly recommended to secure gear.

Services & gear you'll find here

The three documented surf shops primarily focus on cold-water necessities. Expect high-quality rental packages including thick 5/4mm or 6/5/4mm hooded wetsuits, boots, and gloves, essential for Maine waters. Full repair services, including ding fixes and patching, are standard offerings. While custom shaping might be available through specific shapers affiliated with these shops, it often requires lead time. Look for local insight on accessing spots like Old Orchard Beach or Higgins Beach, which are often the best bets.

FAQs about surf shops in Portland

The most consistent and sizable surf occurs from September through November, driven by Atlantic storm activity. While winter can offer powerful groundswells, the extreme cold and ice make it significantly more challenging for casual surfers. Summer months are generally flat.

Yes, given the water temperatures, rentals invariably include high-grade cold-water gear. This means 5/4mm or thicker hooded wetsuits, neoprene boots, gloves, and hoods are standard components of any full winter rental package offered by local outfitters.

While Portland itself has limited accessible breaks, nearby beaches like Pine Point or Old Orchard Beach offer gentler, sand-bottom conditions ideal for beginners when the swell is manageable. Shops usually provide guidance on the best low-tide spots for learning.