Celebrating Jacksonville's Surf Legacy

Jacksonville has a rich surf history, being a hub for true surf culture—not corporate brands. Here, world-class surfers like Justin Quintal, one of the top longboarders today, and Karina Petroni, a supermodel and pro surfer, thrive. The area’s surf roots stretch back over half a century, with locals fiercely committed to the authentic surf lifestyle.

Legends and Legacy of Jacksonville Surf

The region's surf history kicked off in the 1960s, when Bruce Clelland put Jacksonville on the map. Clelland, the first surfer from North Florida to make waves globally, was featured in Endless Summer and dominated the East Coast scene. Legends like Larry Miniard, a four-time World Contest representative, and Joe Rolland, the Eastern Surf Association's first Men's Champion, further solidified the area's reputation. By the '80s, Sean Mattison emerged as another local pro, earning U.S. Surfing Champion honors and a Gold medal with Team USA. Today, he’s recognized as one of the world’s top board designers.

Modern Surf Hub

Their legacy continues through local artists, board builders, and surf shops. From custom boards by Rozo Surfboards to surf-themed cafes like RP’s, Jacksonville’s beaches remain a hub of surf culture. The area’s diverse lineups cater to surfers of all levels, making it an ideal spot for anyone to enjoy the waves. Learn more about the history of Jacksonville surf culture here.