Why Fort Pierce’s Jetty Is Florida’s Hidden Surf Gem

May 08, 2025

Tucked away on Florida’s Treasure Coast, Fort Pierce—aka The Sunrise City—is a haven for surfers who crave uncrowded waves, natural beauty, and small-town surf culture. At the heart of this coastal paradise is The Jetty, one of Florida’s most iconic and beloved surf spots. Whether you’re chasing clean rights, mellow peelers, or just the vibes, Fort Pierce delivers.

But surfing is only half the story. For over 30 years, Spunky’s Surf Shop has been the go-to spot for surfers, locals, and travelers alike. From board repairs to bikinis, Spunky’s has everything you need to live the surf lifestyle—and with exclusive drops like The Jetty Tee, it’s become just as iconic as the lineup itself.

Why Surfing in Fort Pierce is So Desirable

🌊 Consistent Swell, Year-Round Stoke

Thanks to its unique positioning above the Bahama Bank, Fort Pierce receives consistent swell from both the south and east. Even in the summer, when most of Florida goes flat, The Jetty often lights up with rideable peaks.

Best Season to Surf: September–March
Average Wave Height: 2–4 ft (with overhead sets during hurricane season)
Best Swell Direction: NE & ENE
Best Wind Direction: S, SW, W

🏄 Iconic Surf Breaks for Every Skill Level

Fort Pierce Inlet / The North Jetty: The most famous break in town, delivering clean A-frames and long rights. High tide is key.
P.V. Martin’s: Quieter and more local—when it works, it’s magic.
Blind Creek Park: Reef and sand combine for punchy, high-performance waves when the swell is on.

Whether you’re longboarding the peelers or carving hurricane swells, Fort Pierce has a wave for your style.

The Community: Friendly, Tight-Knit, and Real
Unlike some surf towns plagued with localism, Fort Pierce is warm—just like its water. Respect the etiquette and you’ll quickly be part of the crew. Monthly surf meetups and events bring the community together, from groms to old-school chargers.

No Thick Wetsuits Needed
Winter in Fort Pierce rarely dips below 68°F in the water. Most surfers rock board shorts or bikinis year-round, with only occasional use of a spring suit or light 3/2mm wetsuit. It’s the Florida dream.

Flat Day? No Problem.
When the ocean takes a break, the town doesn’t. Here are must-do activities while your board dries:

🌲 Fort Pierce Inlet State Park: Hiking, snorkeling, or wildlife watching
🍻 Sailfish Brewery: Local beer, live music, and downtown energy
⚓ Navy SEAL Museum: A piece of American history with a coastal twist
🎣 Little Jim’s Bait & Tackle: Grab a rod or grab a bite
🌴 Heathcote Botanical Gardens: Lush, vibrant, and relaxing

Where to Gear Up: Spunky’s Surf Shop

For over 30 years, Spunky’s Surf Shop has kept Fort Pierce stoked. From ding repairs to custom surfboards, the shop supports locals and travelers alike. This is where surfers come to gear up, hang out, and stay connected to the surf culture.

🛍 What You’ll Find at Spunky’s:

O’Neill Women’s Collection: From bikinis to coastal cowgirl tees
Jetty Collection Tees & Hats: Rep your favorite break in style
Spunky’s Straw Hats: Local-tested for shade and salt life
Line Drive Surfboards: Hand-shaped by Skip—30+ years of craftsmanship
Accessories, Wax, Fins, Rashguards: If it’s surf-ready, it’s here

The Jetty in Fort Pierce isn’t just a surf spot—it’s a lifestyle. With consistent waves, welcoming vibes, and one of the best local surf shops on the coast, this town offers everything a surfer could want. Whether you’re catching your first wave or your thousandth, Fort Pierce has a seat in the lineup for you. And when it’s time to gear up, you already know where to go—Spunky’s Surf Shop, your home for surf since 1994.