Texas may not come to mind as your top surf spot, but there are actually numerous awesome spots where you can catch waves here. From beginners seeking smaller waves to experienced pro surfers looking for larger waves – there’s sure to be something suitable for every level here.
What’s the climate like in Texas?
Texas boasts an extraordinary climate that ranges from humid and muggy in the east, to dry arid desert conditions in the west, making for one of the most climatically diverse states in America, yet can often be unpredictable with hurricanes, tornadoes and thunderstorms occurring regularly.
Texas experiences its warmest weather during summertime, when highs can reach 40 degC (104 degF). Northern areas tend to experience more humid air but more rainfall compared to their southern counterparts; temperatures decrease rapidly as you head south in Texas with December/January temperatures in Wichita Falls reaching as low as -20 degC (4 degF)!
El Paso and Amarillo enjoy abundant sunlight throughout the year; however, in central and southeast Texas it begins to diminish gradually.
Texas weather can vary considerably year to year, but April and May tend to be the wettest months, particularly in western parts. These regions are also susceptible to tornadoes as air masses in Texas collide frequently.
Snowfall in Texas is unpredictable and most prevalent in its northern sections, where average amounts tend to be greater. A historical snowstorm hit Vega and Plainview during February 1956 with over six feet (150 cm) falling within just seven days at both locations.
Texas climate is marked by cool winters, and El Nino-Southern Oscillation cycles play a pivotal role in weather patterns. An El Nino event causes temperatures to drop significantly and an increase in precipitation – creating conditions conducive to an El Nino episode and making Texas even colder during an El Nino period.
Temperatures in winter can drop as low as -23C (30.6F), making living conditions extremely uncomfortable. Humidity levels also tend to reach their highest point between December and January – both can make driving conditions very hazardous.
Texas offers some of the finest surfing conditions during spring when swells begin to build and are more consistent, providing ideal conditions for surfing as water conditions are less crowded and waves are smaller and more playful.
What’s the best time of year to surf in Texas?
Texas may not be at the forefront of your mind when you think of surfing, but there is plenty to enjoy when it comes to waves and surfing scene here. Texas boasts some of the world’s premier surfing spots and it is possible to experience incredible surf just minutes from your front door on any given day!
While Texas may not boast as consistent of swell as other top surf destinations, there’s always enough swell for you to hit the water and have an unforgettable surfing experience. No matter if it’s your home state or you’re visiting for the first time – don’t miss out on experiencing its spectacular coastline by surfing!
One of the great advantages of surfing in Texas is that it can be done all year round, making it one of the premier attractions. When planning a visit, however, it’s essential that you consider when would be the ideal time and season to go surfing.
Springtime in Texas is often considered to be the ideal time of year to surf due to the typically warmer and drier climate, making swell more likely to remain consistent throughout.
Hurricane season, usually running from August through September, offers another excellent time to surf in Texas. Swell can often reach large proportions during this period, providing surfers with some of the finest waves available anywhere.
Texas offers much more than surf, though. Visit the Texas Surf Museum to discover its rich surfing culture and history.
Texas offers numerous great surf shops that can meet all of your surfing needs, with locations such as Galveston, Austin and Houston serving Texas’ coastal regions.
South Padre Island in Texas offers some of the finest surf in Texas. Due to its shorter and deeper continental shelf, surfers can experience long, peeling waves not normally found in the Gulf of Mexico. South Padre is a favorite destination among surfers – and it is easy to understand why!
Where can I surf in Texas?
Texas lacks much in terms of wave resources despite being a coastal state, leaving surfers little opportunity for consistent rides. Without access to an excellent surfing location nearby, chances are your session may produce small and inconsistent waves which make riding them challenging.
But that doesn’t mean surfing can’t still be enjoyable in Texas! Although waves in this part of the state might not offer quite the same consistency and quality as those found in Southern California, Texasans still love hitting the water for some fun surfing – perfect for spending a day or weekend trip out exploring this state’s vast waterways!
Galveston is the northernmost point in Texas where one can find rideable waves, just an hour’s drive from Houston. Although summer can be busy here, you might still catch some decent waves here if there is a tropical storm or low pressure system moving through.
Jamaica Beach is another popular surfing spot near Galveston, offering deep water with sandy bottom breaks and fast-moving swells that provide enjoyable waves for novice and veteran surfers alike.
Surfside in Texas offers one of the more accessible spots for surfing, just one hour from both Houston and Austin. Here, waves break against jetties and piers and can reach sizeable proportions on stronger swells.
Though the waves here may not be as large, they still provide experienced surfers with plenty of excitement and can provide plenty of challenge. You’ll also be met by friendly locals willing to lend assistance, as well as surfboard rentals; making this an excellent destination for the whole family!
Matagorda, just outside Galveston’s coast line, offers plenty of rips without being as overcrowded. As it extends out into the Gulf of Mexico, waves here tend to be smaller but still strong enough for plenty of fun surfing sessions.
Port Aransas, located approximately one hour outside Corpus Christi, provides ideal surfing conditions with various waves to choose from and several surfing schools such as Texas Surf Camps and Expedition School offering lessons.
How can I learn to surf in Texas?
Are You Learning Surf in Texas? While waves in Texas might not always offer ideal conditions, there are still a few spots around the state where you can hop on your board and have an incredible surfing experience.
No matter your experience level or skill set, Texas offers plenty of surf schools that will cater to your individual needs. Here, we provide a buyer’s guide that can help you choose the ideal one.
Professurf of Port Aransas is operated by Professor Puddy Albright, an expert instructor with more than fifty years of teaching people how to surf. Professor Albright provides comprehensive instruction that will quickly and effectively develop your surfing abilities.
Masters-level teachers such as Matt are an invaluable source of expert help and advice; his location of Port Aransas provides one of the world’s premier surfing schools, giving students every opportunity to reach their fullest potential through instruction from him.
C-Sick Surfin, located in Galveston, offers advanced surfers another great opportunity. Without stores or larger organizations affiliated with them, instructors work directly with each student to make sure you get the most out of their experience.
Surf lessons with Surf Lessons Are Fun are an engaging and entertaining way to learn to ride the waves, teaching all you need to know about etiquette, safety and wave knowledge so that you can make the most of this sport. They even supply boards and lycra rashguards so there’s no extra equipment necessary!
They provide both private and group lessons, as well as summer camps for kids aged six to 16. You can book a session any time of the year and they’ll make sure you have everything necessary for an enjoyable session.
South Padre Island is the ideal location for beginners looking to learn to surf, with fully certified American Red Cross first aid and CPR instructors available throughout. Situated right at the hub of South Padre’s vibrant surf community, you’ll also have an ideal chance of meeting other locals as you take to the waves together.