Miami surfers, please chime in...

[travel]

I'll relocate to Miami in a couple of weeks due to job change. Just wonder are there surf spots suitable for beginners? my workplace will be at West Flagler Street. The closer the surf to my work the better, of coz. Hopefully the east coast will be like west coast, if not better ( i know the water temperature is much more comfortable though).

Also it's my 1st time to Miami. If some kind soul can provide tips on accommodation, public transport, or whatever u think useful, it's always appreciated. Thanks in advance!

[stuzzy07]

I live in Ft. lauderdale and only surf down here when there is windswell. If there is a groundswell the better surf will be found upcoast past where the bahamas block the swell, which is usually past the palm beach area. Miami is a good begginers spot, mostly all sand bottom beachbreaks with mellowish waves most of the year. However south beach, miami, ft. lauderdale goes off during hurricane swells or low pressure systems off the coast. There are plenty of apartments, townhomes, houses to rent for decent prices right now and public bus system will get you to most places in miami.

[travel]

Thanks, stuzzy07. Good info... Glad to know there is surf at least, but sounds like the good spots are some distance away up north. It's ok with me though; I'll be happy even simply paddling. Any surf shop to recommend for board rental? Is wetsuit required? (I can bring my 4/3 along if it's necessary)

[stuzzy07]

Yeah I usually drive up north for almost every swell during the winter time. The swell hardly ever makes it down past palm beach and if it does it's really small most of the time. There is a surf shop in miami called surf syndicate i believe..don't know if they do board rentals though, i think so but there are plenty of surf shops on the beach that do. Wetsuit usually isn't required unless you go up north. I wear a 3/2 when the temp goes below 67 degree's but thats only cuz i'm from florida and am not accustomed to cold water, you might be able to do year round without one from CA. Unless the outside temp is below 60. But a 4/3 is definately way to thick for down here, you won't want to be wearing that. Usually just a 1.5 or 2mm topper will suffice.

[travel]

thanks again... seems my beloved 4/3 has to stay back at home. well, no complains though. I do miss the time in Bali when u only need a rash guard & board shorts ... way to go...