Asbury Park has a pretty solid surf scene. The ocean is what brings people together to share their stories or a place to bond. Outside of the shops and restaurants there’s beauty right in front. The town even added a sign that says “Surfing Only” located north of the convention center at the far end of the boardwalk. Here you’ll find students, locals and even onlookers enjoying what the ocean offers.
We spoke with Shaun, an instructor at Summertime Surf School, founded in 2006, here in Asbury Park. Summertime Surf School brings together new and old to those who want to conquer the vast ocean. You don’t have to be a professional to get out in the water. Their mission is to promote healthy living through surfing and have some great professionals trained in this. It’s all about the ultimate environment for teaching and learning the surf and ocean lifestyle.
Anyone can learn to enjoy riding a wave if guided properly. To be a true surfer takes commitment and perseverance. Shaun gave us some tips for new surfers telling us that it’s important to be humble and don't take yourself too seriously. The ocean is more powerful than you are, and even though good surfers need to be in good shape, it is more important that they understand how to read the ocean. That experience takes time and that is why it is super important to get started with an experienced instructor and gain independent experience at beaches that have lifeguards.
Shaun likes to start his day early in the morning, hitting the waves at the north end. Johnny, an employee from Vagabond, also appreciates an early morning surf and recommends the Matador board, which is available at the shop, as the best choice for beginners. Surfing advice comes from all directions, and the early hours bring a mix of dedicated locals and eager beginners paddling out to catch the day's first waves. Shaun mentioned that there are significant misconceptions about the surfer community, particularly the notion that they are always out to have fun. "Yes, surfers are pursuing the 'ultimate pleasure,'" he explained, "but it takes a lot of hard work and grit to stick with surfing and be accepted into the local surfing community." Surfing is not just a casual hobby; it's a dedicated lifestyle, and surfers can recognize that commitment in each other immediately.
Asbury Park Surf Club
We attempted to try to reach out to the Asbury Park Surf Club wanting to get their thoughts on the surf culture here. They serve the Asbury Park and Neptune, New Jersey areas who provide support to area non-profits that have summer camps or put on free local events. Hopefully, this summer we catch them out on the waves!
Vagabond Surf Shop
If you’re looking to shop for the occasion, stop by Vagabond, filled with all your surfing supplies including Matador boards (a super local brand), board wax, fin replacements and threads to show your appreciation for the local scene. We really admired the work of Marko Grasso on the walls. Marko Grasso is a notable nautical artist based in Asbury Park, New Jersey. He is the owner of Rusty Anchor Trading Co., a gallery and shop that showcases his unique wood carvings of marine life, such as whales, sharks, and octopuses. Grasso’s work is renowned for its vibrant textures and dynamic representations of ocean creatures, which he creates by meticulously carving different types of wood, including cedar, oak, and pine.
Surfing brings generations together to share and appreciate God's great gift to humanity: the ocean, which has a playground built into it. The surf scene is not just about riding waves; it's a way of life that fosters friendships, promotes physical and mental well-being, and cultivates a profound appreciation for nature. Families and friends gather on the shore, young surfers learn from the experienced, and all ages find common ground in their love for the sea. This connection to the ocean nurtures a sense of community and belonging that transcends age and background. The local surf scene is a welcoming and dynamic community, celebrating the thrill of surfing and the beauty of the ocean. It’s a place where people come together, not only to enjoy the sport but to support one another and protect the environment that sustains their passion.
Summertime Surf School
(732) 599-2700
info@summertimesurf.com
https://summertimesurf.com/our-mission/
Vagabond Surf Surf
(732) 897-7569
611 Cookman Ave, Asbury Park, NJ 07712
Rusty Anchor Trading
rustyanchortrading@gmail.com
https://www.rustyanchortrading.com/
ultimate environment for teaching and learning the surf and ocean lifestyle.
a way of life that fosters friendships