Hawaii, California, Australia…hot spots for surfing that everyone knows about. South Florida? No one really thinks about it as a surf destination. We dig empty lineups, so let them think that there are no waves to be found.
However, we know that the East Coast gets some pretty awesome waves thanks to hurricanes and winter storms. AND the best surfer in the world, Kelly Slater, is from Cocoa Beach, Florida. So we asked brand ambassador Jasmine Arvizu to help share some inside info on her home break, Deerfield Beach, Florida.
Surf Guide: Deerfield Beach, Florida
Hey! My name is Jasmine Arvizu (@jazzywazzy898), I am 16 years old and have lived in South Florida for the past six years. My love of surfing started when I lived in Hawaii and ever since I have wanted to surf. It wasn’t until I moved to Florida that my parents took me to my first surf lesson and ever since I caught that first wave I have been in love! I also enjoy snorkeling, paddleboarding, yoga, and running track and field. I hope you guys come and visit Florida where it’s summer all year round!
Location: Deerfield Beach, Florida
Where to surf: Deerfield Beach is the spot where I learned to surf, and it has the perfect variety of wave types for all levels of surfers, from the groms being pushed out by their parents to the old locals. Every summer, there are days when the waves are clean and great for long boarding. During the winter, the wind picks up, and so does the swell. The waves can be anywhere from 4 to 5 feet and perfect for short boarders. Jellyfish are everywhere in the summer; I’ve gotten my fair share of stings, and in the winter the rip currents are pretty strong. This is one of the best local spots in South Florida if you’re just looking to get out there and have fun!
Crowd factor: South Florida is warm all year round and on weekends it can get really crowded, especially during the summer. The best times to go are dawn patrol and weekdays during the winter where you can have the water all to yourself.
How to get there/where to stay: Deerfield Beach is a straight shot off Hillsboro Boulevard and has beautiful hotels right across from the beach. The Wyndham Deerfield Beach Resort is a beautiful hotel looking over the ocean with amazing food, especially breakfast, an outdoor pool and fitness center, and best of all an ocean and city view. It is a 2-minute walk from the hotel to the beach.
Water temp: In the summer/spring the water is like stepping into a warm bath, a beautiful 95 degrees. In the fall and winter, the ocean temperature is 70 degrees at the lowest. The most I’ve ever needed surfing is a spring suit and even in the winter a bikini is comfortable.
Other Activities: On calm, flat days, the water is crystal clear and my favorite thing to do is stand up paddleboard as far out as I can and see all of the wildlife! I have seen nurse sharks, turtles, lots of fish, and all different kinds of seashells. You can also boogie board, swim, and play volleyball. The pier is also great for fishing or just a great view of the ocean.
Apres Surf: There are a large variety of different restaurants lined up along the beach. My favorite places are Burgerfi, Umberto’s Pizza, Flanagan’s, Charm City Burger’s, The Whale’s Rib, and Kilwin’s for ice-cream! As well as good food there are also local surf shops, including Billabong, Wings, and my favorite local shop, Island Water Sports. IWS is a shop where the people are friendly, and you can stop by for some wax, bikinis, or to rent a SUP or surfboard.