Surf’s Up! Local Kids Ride the Waves with Heroic First Responders

New Smyrna Beach, Florida, USA - On June 4, 2025, a vibrant event unfolded in Daytona Beach as approximately 50 local kids teamed up with nearly 30 first responders to learn the art of surfing. This initiative, designed to introduce children to surfing for the first time, showcased the enduring spirit of community in Volusia and Flagler counties, regions renowned for their impressive surfing spots, especially New Smyrna Beach and Flagler Beach. As local surfers Caleb Johnston and Marcie Baldwin noted, the area’s consistent waves and unique sandbar breaks are perfect for budding surfers.

Johnston, who boasts over 20 years of experience riding the waves, emphasized the reliable surf conditions found at New Smyrna Beach. According to Baldwin, a fifth-generation local and an experienced surf instructor, the sandbars play a crucial role in maintaining wave quality, making the area a paradise for both seasoned surfers and those just starting out.

Surfing Hotspots

Surfing aficionados can find several spots along the coastline that cater to a range of skill levels. Notable locations include:

• Smyrna Dunes Park south jetty: Known for its consistent waves, it’s perfect for surfers of varying abilities.
• Clancy Park, Sapphire Road, and 27th Avenue Beachfront Park: Recommended for beginners and intermediates due to manageable crowds and lifeguard availability.
• Bethune Beach: A great transitional area for increasing surfing skills.
• Daytona’s Sunglow Pier: A challenging spot for the more experienced, with strong currents to navigate.
• Flagler Beach Pier: It’s a vibrant place for amateur surf contests and boasts a lively atmosphere.

Safety remains paramount for surfers, particularly when surfing near jetties and piers. With summer rapidly approaching, local surf conditions are expected to change. According to the latest surf report from Surf Guru, the current swell is around 1.8 feet at 7 seconds from the East, presenting thigh-high wind swell conditions that are best enjoyed when the winds settle. Piloting these waves requires respect for the local surf community to minimize any potential tensions particularly as the beaches become more crowded.

A Surfing Culture

New Smyrna Beach (NSB) has earned accolades as one of the top surf towns in the U.S., according to SURFER Magazine. Its reputation attracts surfers from all over the globe, drawn by the warm climate and consistently rideable waves. The area enjoys a humid subtropical climate with mild winters and steamy summers, typically featuring average annual air temperatures around 73°F. Summer months can see highs hitting 89°F, while winter settles into more comfortable averages of 70°F during the day and cooler nights.

During the summer, sea temperatures also rise to a pleasant 80°F, encouraging surfers to hit the water. Autumn, particularly during hurricane season, often leads to exceptional surfing conditions that keep the local surf shops buzzing. Places like Red Dog Surf Shop and Day Breakers Surf and Coffee Shop foster a welcoming community atmosphere for surfers of all stripes.

As the locals from Surfin’ NSB emphasize, this beach is not just about riding waves. It stands as a supportive sanctuary for surfers, showcasing a dedication to nurturing skills and promoting safety. With an active surfing community and continuously favorable wave conditions, New Smyrna Beach is not just a local treasure—it’s a surfing haven waiting to be explored.

For a detailed exploration of the best surfing spots and surf conditions, check out News-Journal Online, Surf Guru, and News Myrna Stays.