St. Andrew's Park is a popular surf spot located in the St. Andrews State Recreation Area at Panama City Beach. This place features two main breaks and is known for providing decent waves for surfers of various skill levels. The environment is pleasant, with the beautiful emerald waters typical of the Gulf Coast. Access is straightforward; just park in the lot at St. Andrews.
The surf here can get pretty good, especially on the right days. You’ll find a fast, hollow left-hander next to the jetty when it’s offshore, and if you catch it big enough, you can paddle from the outside all the way to the beach. A bit further west, there are both right and left peaks that break closer to shore, which are nice for longboarders. The waves can range from waist-high to overhead (about 1.2 to 2.4 meters), and the place handles swells from the south and south-southwest, typically between 4 to 8 feet (1.2 to 2.4 meters). Winds from the NNE to E are preferred, and the bottom here is mostly sand.
Be aware that the crowd can get solid since this is a go-to spot for many surfers, but with two breaks, there’s room to spread out. The vibe remains mellow, making it a chill place to surf. It’s also worth noting that sneaking in early might get you caught by the rangers, so it’s best to follow the rules. Surfing here is popular from fall through spring, especially during hurricane season, so be prepared for some good swells!
