Surfing in Winter
Winter is when the best waves arrive. North Pacific and North Atlantic storms generate powerful swells that light up coastlines from California to Maine. The tradeoff: colder water, shorter days, and heavier conditions. Here's how to make the most of it.
Why Winter Waves Are Better
- ✓Larger, more consistent swells from winter storms
- ✓Longer swell periods (14-20+ seconds) produce cleaner, more powerful waves
- ✓Fewer crowds — casual surfers stay home
- ✓Offshore winds are more common in winter
- ✓Some spots only "turn on" in winter with the right swell direction
Essential Winter Surf Gear
Thicker than summer for core warmth
Keeps feet warm and protects from reef
Essential below 14°C / 58°F
Built-in or separate — reduces head heat loss
Changing in a cold parking lot without one is miserable
Pour into wetsuit before or after session
Prevent surfer's ear — accelerated by cold water and wind
Best Winter Surf Destinations in the US
Hawaii (North Shore)
AdvancedMassive north swells. The most famous winter surf in the world.
Central/Northern California
Intermediate+Mavericks, Ocean Beach SF, Santa Cruz. Big, powerful winter swells.
Southern California
All levelsMalibu, Trestles, Huntington. More manageable winter swell.
Florida (East Coast)
All levelsBest surf of the year from nor'easters. Short-lived swells.
New Jersey / New York
Intermediate+Hardcore community. Powerful, cold, uncrowded.
Outer Banks, NC
All levelsConsistent winter swells, fewer crowds than summer.
Oregon / Washington
AdvancedBig, raw Pacific swells. Not for beginners.
How to Stay Warm
- ✓Invest in a quality wetsuit — cheap suits leak more
- ✓Do a warmup stretch before paddling out
- ✓Stay active in the water — keep moving between sets
- ✓Know your limit — come in when you start shivering or losing dexterity
- ✓Change quickly after your session (hypothermia risk)
- ✓Hot water thermos trick: pour warm water inside your suit before paddling out
- ✓Eat a warm meal before surfing — your body burns calories to stay warm
Winter Surfing Safety
- !Waves are bigger and more powerful — know your limits
- !Cold water reduces muscle function and reaction time
- !Rip currents can be stronger with bigger swells
- !Shorter daylight means less visibility
- !Always surf with a buddy in winter
- !Check conditions carefully — winter storms change conditions rapidly
- !If in doubt, don't go out
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to surf in winter?
Yes, with proper gear and preparation. The main risks are cold water exposure, larger waves, and stronger currents. Wear appropriate thickness neoprene, surf within your ability, and always go with a buddy.
Can beginners surf in winter?
In warm-water destinations like Hawaii and Florida, absolutely. In cold-water regions, winter is generally not ideal for beginners — the conditions are heavier, the water is cold, and sessions are less comfortable. Learn in summer and progress to winter.
How cold is too cold to surf?
Most surfers are comfortable down to about 5°C / 41°F water with a 6/5mm suit and full accessories. Below that, ice and extreme cold make surfing impractical for most people. Your tolerance depends on your gear quality and cold-water experience.
What wetsuit do I need for winter surfing?
Depends on location. Hawaii: boardshorts. Florida: 3/2mm. California: 4/3-5/4mm. Northeast US: 5/4-6/5mm with booties, gloves, and hood. See our wetsuit thickness chart for detailed recommendations.
Why are winter waves bigger?
Winter storms in the North Pacific and North Atlantic generate more powerful swells with longer periods. These travel across the ocean and arrive at coastlines as large, well-organized waves. Summer storms are generally weaker and further away.
Find Winter Surf Lessons
Many surf schools operate year-round with winter-specific gear included. Find one near you.
Find Surf Lessons