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Surf spots and parks

A day spent chasing waves that transitions into a quiet park visit without feeling like you have to leave the coast behind.

Based on 702 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Surfers Point at Seaside Park image 1
Surfers Point at Seaside Park image 2
Surfers Point at Seaside Park image 3
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Beachside setting offers stunning ocean views and golden sands with walkways lined by towering palms. Atmosphere blends peaceful reflection around a memorial with a laid-back, lively vibe typical of a coastal community. Visitors find a chill, tranquil space for walking, surfing, and enjoying nature's rhythm.

Waves offer consistent and good surf with a reef break suitable for both short and long boards. This spot attracts surfers with skill and deep surf culture knowledge seeking thrilling rides.

Energy flows without chaos, blending laid-back and lively vibes. Expansive views meet nature with amenities, including a small playground near the pier and plenty of space to find your own spot.

People are saying

"I found the beach beautiful and relaxing."

"The surf spot here has really good waves for surfing."

"It's a beautiful park with expansive views and great sunset spots."

Good to know

1

Parking is often full, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Paid parking is the only option available at Surfers Point.

3

The beach is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

02
Treasure Island Park image 1

Beach features breathtaking ocean views and paved trails with benches and picnic areas for relaxing. Atmosphere stays laid-back and serene, with few people and a friendly vibe. Waves crash over boulder reefs, creating scenic tide pools and a unique coastal experience.

Waves break from opposite directions over boulder reefs, creating striking visuals and strong surf. Water stays clear, with waves that are fun but demand respect for their power.

Stunning coastal bluffs and sandy coves create a breathtaking setting. The park offers wheelchair and stroller friendly paved paths leading to the beach, making it accessible and family-friendly.

People are saying

"I found the beach here to be beautiful and amazing."

"It's so kid friendly, the tide pools are amazing for little ones."

"I found the parks here to be so beautiful and scenic."

Good to know

1

Parking across the street costs $2.50 per hour.

2

Dogs are allowed before 9am and after 6pm, but this is not posted.

3

There are public bathrooms and showers near the 'Lost Point' Cafe.

03
Palisades South Park image 1

Oceanfront park offers stunning sunset views and a quiet, relaxing atmosphere with grassy hilltops and benches overlooking the beach. The space feels serene and chill, attracting those who enjoy lounging, walking along the coastline, and soaking in the beautiful bay and cityscape.

Waves here are approachable for beginners and offer a small surf ideal for learning. Two-hour individual or small group lessons take place right on the beach, making it a solid spot to start surfing.

Offers stunning ocean views and a serene atmosphere with plenty of green space. The park is dog friendly and less crowded, making it ideal for relaxing walks or watching the sunset.

People are saying

"It's a great place to watch the sunset."

"I found the beach here to be beautiful and clean."

"The parks here offer beautiful ocean views."

Good to know

1

Parking can be scarce, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Dogs are allowed on the beach after 4pm or 6pm depending on the time of year.

3

Free street parking is available day and night, but limited.

04
River Run Park image 1

Park centers on a fast river with surf wave and two rapids for kayaking, tubing, and surfing. Grassy terraces and BBQ grills create a relaxed spot for picnics and gatherings. Trails connect to nearby greenways, attracting walkers, runners, and cyclists in a unique urban setting near industrial areas.

A surf wave exists in a park setting with grassy areas and amenities like parking and bathrooms. People wear vests and helmets and watch out for each other while learning and surfing on boards.

Amenities include parking, bathrooms, bike paths, and seating. The park offers activities like kayaking, tubing, surfing, and RC crawling. The river has two rapids right at the park for quick rides and walks.

People are saying

"I found so much fun kayaking, tubing, and exploring nature here."

"It's a super fun play park for everyone."

"I was impressed to see people surfing here."

Good to know

1

Expect strong rapids; wear a life jacket for safety.

2

Parking is available on both sides of the river.

3

The park is great for kayaking, tubing, and surfing.

05
Fletcher Cove Beach Park image 1

Small sandy beach meets family-friendly park with playground and basketball court. Calm, quiet atmosphere invites relaxation and sunset viewing. Nautical-themed paths and a hilltop lookout offer scenic ocean views.

Waves here offer good surfing and boogie boarding opportunities with two beach levels. The sea has fun waves for body surfing and longboarding, attracting surfers and kids alike.

Beautiful beach views and easy beach access define this park. It offers a playground, picnic space, and clean facilities, making it great for families and kids.

People are saying

"The beach here is really clean, with nice facilities for washing off sand."

"It's a beautiful park with gorgeous ocean views."

"The surf spot has good waves, perfect for boogie boarding and surfing."

Good to know

1

Free outdoor concerts happen once a month during the summer.

2

A new children's playground opened on 6/28/23.

3

Parking costs $15 for self-parking, but free parking is available.

06
Calumet Park image 1

Park overlooks the Pacific Ocean with amazing sunset views and roaring waves creating a serene atmosphere. Visitors enjoy a quiet, peaceful vibe with grassy bluffs and a small beach area. The space feels private and cozy despite being in a neighborhood setting.

Good waves push onto shoreline cliffs, creating solid surf conditions. A slippery trail leads up from the waves, often busy with surfers.

A small, quaint park with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and a serene atmosphere ideal for picnics, strolls, or small weddings. It offers pet-friendly green spaces and plenty of free curbside parking.

People are saying

"It's a great place to watch the sunset over the water."

"It's a quiet place perfect for relaxing or reading."

"It's a beautiful park with amazing ocean views."

Good to know

1

Parking may be a challenge due to limited spaces.

2

There are no bathrooms available at Calumet Park.

3

The park is pet friendly, but dog access is limited.

07
Jupiter Beach Park image 1

Spacious beach with soft sand and blue ocean views offers a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere. Plenty of picnic areas with grills and a water play area for young kids create a relaxed, welcoming environment. The vibe stays calm and quiet, making it ideal for walks and ocean swimming.

Soft sand and great waves create a solid spot for surfing. The soothing sound of waves and breathtaking views add to the experience.

Spacious and pet-friendly, this park offers plenty of room to spread out without crowds. It features shallow rocky areas that calm the waves, making it great for kids and peaceful walks by the ocean.

People are saying

"I found the beach here to be beautiful and great."

"This park's beaches are beautiful with soft sand and clear water."

"This surf spot has great waves and stunning natural views."

Good to know

1

Parking is free, but it can fill up quickly, especially in the afternoon.

2

The beach has lifeguards on duty for safety.

3

Dogs are allowed in the park, but check beach access rules.

08
Robert Moses State Park Field 5 image 1

Beach features clean sand, calm water, and a quiet atmosphere with a notable lighthouse nearby. Outdoor bar and playground add convenience and family-friendly elements. Space remains peaceful despite occasional loud radios and smokers.

Waves here are consistently big and impressive, creating a quiet beach atmosphere ideal for surfing.

A spacious playground with a variety of fun and safe equipment sits right before the beach area. The park offers showers and accessible bathrooms, and loud radios are not allowed, keeping the atmosphere peaceful.

People are saying

"I found the beach to be beautiful and very clean."

"The parks and beach here are beautiful and clean."

"The Surf Spot has big waves."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $10 during the season and is free off-season.

2

Lifeguards are on duty until 6 PM on weekends.

3

The bathrooms are open year-round at Robert Moses State Park Field 5.

09
Gilgo State Park 4x4 image 1

Public beach offers wide, soft sand ideal for off-road 4x4 activities with permits. Atmosphere stays tranquil and respectful, suitable for families and solo visitors. Gentle waves and pristine conditions create a peaceful outdoor experience.

Waves here support surfing alongside other activities like off-road driving and kayaking. The beach offers a mix of surf and sun that suits both casual and active water sports.

Offers a quiet beach experience away from crowds with spots for swimming and sunbathing. Includes a 4x4 area popular for off-road driving.

People are saying

"I found the beach here to be huge and exceptionally clean."

"Gilgo State Park Beach feels like a hidden gem with pristine sand."

"I loved surfing here during the summer."

Good to know

1

A permit is required for 4x4 vehicles to access the beach.

2

The beach is open year-round for 4x4 vehicles with a permit.

3

Air down your tires before driving on the sand for better traction.

10
Mission Beach Park image 1

Boardwalk runs alongside a giant roller coaster and an amusement park with shops and eateries. Beach offers clean, relaxing atmosphere with sunny, peaceful views and opportunities for outdoor activities. Family-friendly vibe fills the area with friendly energy and live music.

Waves suit both beginners and seasoned surfers with a clean shoreline. Kids often learn to surf here, and the beach offers surfing alongside volleyball and shell collecting.

A long, beautiful stretch of beach meets a clean, well-kept park perfect for roller skating and biking. The nearby amusement area features a giant wooden roller coaster and rides that appeal to both kids and adults.

People are saying

"I found the beach to be beautiful and super clean."

"The parks here offer beautiful beaches and ocean views."

"The waves here are perfect for surfing, and the beach is gorgeous."

Good to know

1

Parking fills up quickly, so arrive early to avoid parking across the street.

2

Parking at Mission Beach Park is free.

3

Finding parking is difficult, especially with red curbs that could result in a ticket.

11
Laguna Beach, California image 1

Coastal park offers breathtaking ocean views and peaceful, clean beaches with volleyball and basketball courts. The atmosphere stays serene and family-friendly, with open spaces and playgrounds for kids. Pathways invite easy strolls along the coast, enhancing the relaxing vibe.

Warm white sand meets great waves that suit both light body surfing and safe play for children. Rocky parts and tide pools add variety, with surfers carving through water near crashing waves.

Offers amazing views along the coastline with a playground, basketball court, and picnic area. Hiking paths provide a memorable experience right by the beach.

People are saying

"I found the beach here to be beautiful and clean."

"The ocean views from the parks here are breathtaking."

"The surf spot has big waves crashing against the rocks."

Good to know

1

Parking meters cost $6.50 per hour; plan ahead for limited parking.

2

Restrooms and showers are conveniently located just steps from the beach.

3

The beach is very clean with no trash in sight.

12
Huntington State Beach image 1

Large sandy beach offers spacious and calm atmosphere with fire pits and volleyball nets for activities. Ocean views provide stunning sunsets and a relaxing vibe. Facilities include paved paths and food stands, attracting families and beachgoers seeking a peaceful setting.

Huge, dangerous waves attract surfers and body surfers alike. Plenty of space offers waves to yourself and chances to catch surfing competitions.

Natural and comfortable facilities stand out here. Parking is easy with spots near Main Street and free passes available from the local library. Helpful park rangers add to the experience.

People are saying

"This beach is beautiful and has large sandy areas."

"It's a fun beach day with lots of activities for the kids."

"It's so spacious, you can always find a spot to relax."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $15 for the day pass at Huntington State Beach.

2

Expect limited parking availability during peak summer months.

3

Dogs are not allowed on the beach.

13
Island Beach State Park image 1

Natural dunes and woodland trails create a secluded, peaceful atmosphere near the ocean. Beaches remain clean and quiet, with lifeguards and amenities like showers and a bar enhancing the experience. The park offers kayaking on the bay side for quieter water adventures.

Big, aggressive waves make this spot ideal for bodyboarding and surfing. The beach offers clean sand and designated areas for surfers, surf fishers, and dune buggy riders.

Natural beaches and sand dunes stretch widely with no housing blocking the pristine ocean view. Trails, wildlife, and two bathing beaches with showers and bathrooms offer plenty of space for biking, walking, and fishing in a quiet, uncrowded setting.

People are saying

"I found the beach to be spectacular and beautiful."

"This park's raw, natural beauty feels so peaceful and pristine."

"The Surf Spot scenery is magnificent with the sand dunes."

Good to know

1

Entrance is free until July 1st; after that, a $6 fee applies.

2

Pets are allowed starting at Lot 2, outside the lifeguard area.

3

The park offers kid-friendly learning activities near snack stands during summer.

14
Crystal Cove State Park image 1

Beachfront park offers breathtaking ocean views and peaceful, mellow atmosphere with beautiful rock formations and nostalgic 1930s bungalows. The area remains quiet and uncrowded, inviting relaxation and reflection. Trails lead to scenic viewpoints with benches, enhancing the tranquil experience.

Big waves near the cliffs offer strong conditions for surfing, body surfing, and boogie boarding. Calm waves make it safe for kids, but watch out for rocks when entering the water.

Unspoiled coastline meets breathtaking ocean views along well-marked trails. The park offers organized facilities and a chance to spot dolphins near the shore.

People are saying

"I found the beach beautiful with stunning views."

"The park's ocean views are stunning and peaceful."

"The waves here are great for surfing and body surfing."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $15 at the entrance, but plan ahead as it's limited.

2

You need a California state pass to park there.

3

There are no stores at the park, so bring food, drinks, and sunblock.

15
La Jolla Shores Park image 1

Large beach with spectacular ocean views and a spacious grassy area creates a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere. Lifeguards and fire pits add to the safe, relaxed vibe. The park feels well-maintained and perfect for quiet afternoons or casual gatherings.

Gentle, nice-sized waves make this spot great for beginners. Plenty of space lets surfers find their own spot, while clean, clear water supports both surfing and snorkeling.

Soft, clean sand and clear, warm water create a stunning beach park with calm waters ideal for swimming and surfing. Free parking and spectacular views add to the appeal for families and visitors.

People are saying

"The beach here is really clean and felt safe."

"The parks here are stunning with gorgeous natural beauty."

"The beach here is gorgeous and so clean."

Good to know

1

Parking at La Jolla Shores Park is limited, especially on weekends.

2

Free parking is available, but it can fill up quickly.

3

Public restrooms are located near the parking lot.

16
South Beach Park, Boca Raton image 1

Pristine shores meet a large elevated gazebo and covered pavilion offering wide scenic views of the ocean. The atmosphere stays peaceful and relaxing, with rhythmic waves and fresh air creating a serene setting. Families enjoy a shaded playground nearby, while attentive lifeguards ensure safety.

Big enough waves create good breaks for surfing and bodysurfing. Windswell and wind add to the surf conditions. A pavilion overlooks the beach for watching the waves.

Cleanliness and well-maintained grounds stand out, with a peaceful beach and calm waters. A playground with shaded equipment offers fun for kids, while picnic areas and clean restrooms support a relaxing day outdoors.

People are saying

"I found the beach to be beautiful and clean."

"The parks here are so clean and peaceful."

"The beach here is beautiful and clean."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $35 on weekdays and $55 on weekends.

2

Parking is limited to a maximum of one hour.

3

Free parking is available for up to four hours.

17
Lauderdale-by-the-Sea Beach image 1

Public beach offers gorgeous views and a peaceful, refined vibe with colorful chairs and lively outdoor spaces. Amenities include showers and loungers for rent, enhancing comfort for visitors. The atmosphere suits those seeking a chill, relaxed environment by the ocean.

Waves vary from microscopic near shore to large and strong at times. Plenty of waves exist for surfing and family fun.

A small park sits by the beach with a playground near the El Prado entrance. The area stays uncrowded, offering a calm spot to relax.

People are saying

"This beach has a lovely, laid-back vibe."

"The waves here are nice and enjoyable for surfing."

"I loved the parks and the restaurants nearby."

Good to know

1

Happy hour at local bars offers cheap prices during specific hours.

2

Santa arrives with a police escort and lights the Christmas tree.

3

Public restrooms are available at 4345 El Mar Avenue, near the beach.

18
Pier Playground | Seal Beach image 1

Playground features sun shades, swings, and climbing structures with a huge sandbox shaped like Seal Beach inside a gated area. Surrounding space offers beautiful ocean views and big shady trees that provide ample shade. The atmosphere is family friendly and peaceful, with a community vibe and nearby street performers and live music.

Waves here are beautiful and strong, offering a laid-back surfing atmosphere. Low tides and warm weather add to the experience, but caution is needed due to used needles in the sand and surf.

A gated playground sits right by the beach, offering a safe and clean space for kids to play. The park includes a sand pit and is well maintained, with easy parking nearby and shops across the street.

People are saying

"It's a fun playground, really great for kids."

"The playground is a fun, cute spot for kids."

"The waves here are beautiful and strong."

Good to know

1

Parking is ample and affordable at $3 per hour or $15 per day.

2

Musical activities occur on weekends at Pier Playground.

3

The playground is well-maintained with a soft foam base under climbing equipment.

19
Orlando Watersports Complex image 1

Cable park offers features for all skill levels with advanced ramps and rails. Atmosphere feels like a friendly lake house with an energetic vibe and comfortable surroundings. Inflatable aqua park and water slides provide fun for kids while adults enjoy wakeboarding and boat rides.

Wake surfing grows in popularity here with many boat sets available. The spot offers a unique surfing experience that attracts those learning to wakeboard or surf.

Wakeboarding stands out with top-tier cable systems and a well-run setup that draws enthusiasts. The park also offers an inflatable water play area for kids and kite surfing options for adults.

People are saying

"The staff here makes the fun activities feel so welcoming and helpful."

"The Parks staff here is super friendly and accommodating."

"The Surf Spot staff is so nice and easy to deal with."

Good to know

1

Tickets cost $30 for one hour.

2

The facility has little to no wait times even on weekends.

3

They are always open rain or shine.

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