Overview
Matanzas Inlet is the last remaining natural entrance to Florida's Intracoastal Waterway, a sand-bottom beach break that throws both lefts and rights. With no jetties, the sand shifts around constantly and the currents run strong, so the bank that works changes from day to day. Check it from the bridge to figure out which side is firing. The north and south sides both break well, and when the sand lines up the middle of the inlet is the standout, though that section sits in shark-infested water. The southern side breaks closer in and suits surfers of all abilities.
When It Works
The inlet draws swell from south through north, with northeast (NE) the best direction. It works from 0.6 m / 2 ft to 1.8 m / 6 ft and delivers most through spring, autumn, and winter, with hurricane swells in the mix. It's a decent, versatile setup: long, gently breaking waves make it a treat for longboarding, and the southern side stays rideable even when it's small. On bigger days an outside wave shows up that takes some paddling to reach, while smaller longboard sessions are an easy paddle out.
Wind and Tide
Look for southwest (SW) offshore wind to clean it up. The bank can work through most of the tide, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
Bring whatever fits the day: shortboard, funboard, longboard, or fish all have their place, and the mellow southern side is friendly to beginners. Expect a quiet lineup that can feel a little reserved. The one thing to respect here is the sharks, big fish are a genuine presence, so weigh that before paddling out to the middle bank. The water often looks murky, but that's largely natural tannins washing out of local rivers.
Access
Park on the hill on the south side, where there's free roadside parking. There are no facilities, and you'll share the area with a fair amount of motorized traffic.
