If you’ve always dreamed about surfing the ocean waves but never hopped in the water, there’s no better place to get started than Cocoa Beach. Home to Kelly Slater, and proudly the Surf Capital of the East Coast, the Space Coast is THE destination to learn how to surf this summer vacation.

From taking surfing lessons to stocking up on gear, here are some things you need to know about surf lessons in Cocoa Beach.

Choose your Surf School

Image by @colbieleightaylor

You’ll find dozens of surf schools and training centers scattered along the Space Coast. Here are a few we really love.

Ron Jon Surf School 
School of Surf
Ohana Surf School
Surfguys Surf School 
Cocoa Beach Surf School 
Nex Generation Surf School 
Sobe Surf and Paddle
Core Surf

Planning a long weekend in the area? You’ll find several beachside hotels and resorts that offer beginner courses along the Atlantic, and these are led by professional and experienced instructors. Just check in with the front desk to learn about hotel activities and recommendations for area surf schools.

Pick Up Surfboards and Gear

Ron Jon Surf Shop is a Cocoa Beach landmark in and of itself, and it’s a great place to pick out some basic surfing gear and essentials for your surfing lessons or recreational activities. Whether you’re shopping for swimwear, skimboards, or quality surfboards, this is your one-stop shop for all your surfing essentials. You also have the option of signing up for private and group lessons for surfing and kiteboarding lessons at the Ron Jon Surf School, Florida’s largest surfing school.

Check out these other amazing local surf shops for an epic selection of beachware, boards and everything you need to enjoy your day on the Space Coast.

Cocoa Beach Surf Company
Nielson Surfboards 
Catalyst
Oceansports World Beach Store
Drifthouse
Epic Boardsports 

It’s your summer vacation! Make sure it’s epic by learning how to surf here on the Space Coast.