The Surf Window

Panama City Beach

Florida, USA

Beach breakBeginner

Florida's spring break capital doubles as the Gulf Coast's most concentrated surf scene, an unlikely combination of party resort and genuine surfing community where Gulf swells and rare northeast windswells keep the stoke alive year-round.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalE (90°)
WindowNNE–SSE (30°–150°)
Size–SE 0.8–1.5m at 6–10s

Wind

N

Light to NW under 15 knots

Tide

Mid tide

LowMidHigh

Season

Sep–Nov

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Beach break

Bottom

Sand

Shape

Small peaks along the beach

Length

30–50m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Beginners
  • •Why: Small Gulf waves are great for absolute beginners

Hazards

  • •Extremely crowded in Spring Break season, avoid February through April
  • •Very small waves most of the time
  • •Rip currents near the various piers

Local Tips

  • •Russell-Fields Pier area gets the most consistent shape from Gulf swells
  • •The local surf community is passionate and resourceful, they work with what they have
  • •Clear Gulf water makes snorkeling excellent in flat conditions

Location

Map showing the location of Panama City Beach in Florida, USA

30.1766, -85.8054