By Terry Tomalin
It's not Hawaii, but the Sunshine State's coasts have their own popular spots for surfing in Florida.
When surfers talk about Florida's place among the worlds' best breaks, two words come to mind: "The Inlet."
Located south of Cocoa Beach, the East Coast's own "Surf City." There is a definitive pecking order on the north side of the jetty at a place called "First Peak." That's where you will find the best and most competitive surfers and a descending hierarchy on the two breaks just to the north, "Second Peak" and "Third Peak."
Florida, like most of the best surf spots around the world, names its surf breaks after nearby landmarks or some unique or oceanographic feature.
Heading north, you'll find another great local break for surfing in Florida, "Spanish House." But as the case with Sebastian Inlet or "Chernobles" (sometimes referred to as "Third Peak"), be aware that you'll have plenty of company even on days when the surf is just fair.
Heading north from The Inlet, you'll pass through Satellite Beach, home of the pro surfers C.J. and Damien Hobgood. Next are the world-class breaks of (heading north) "Second Light," "First Light" and "Picnic Tables."
Cocoa Beach, home to six-time World Champion Kelly Slater and Ron Jon Surf Shop, the world's most famous surf shop, has its own allure. The crowds are smaller and the waves a little mellower, which makes it the best surfing in Florida for longboarders and beginners. Turn down and off "The Streets," 13th, 14th, 16th etc., and you'll find rideable waves (There are 20 of them). The Cocoa Beach or Canaveral Pier is the site of many local contests, including the Easter Surf Festival. Jetty Park to the north is good surf spot when the winter wind blows. It's also prime location for fishing and sight seeing.
North of Canaveral, you can surf in New Smyrna Inlet, the south side of the famous Ponce de Leon or "Ponce" Inlet. Known locally as "the wave magnet," Smyrna's waves are well suited for trick riding or "hot dogging." It's also now considered the most consistent surf.
Ponce Inlet to the north rivals Sebastian as one of the best surf spots in Florida. As with any place where the surfing is stellar, you will have company.
