St. Augustine Pier is a well-known surf spot located in North Florida, offering a mix of waves for surfers of various skill levels. It’s convenient for those traveling from Gainesville, making it a popular destination for university students and local surfers alike. The pier itself is a recognizable landmark, and while it can get crowded at times, the vibe remains pretty chill. Surfing here generally attracts a lower-key crowd compared to some of the busier spots further up the coast.

The surf here is quite versatile, handling swell sizes from about 0.6 meters (2 ft) to 3 meters (10 ft). It provides beach breaks with waves that can break left and right over a sandy bottom. You can catch swell coming from various directions including North to SouthEast. The best conditions usually occur when the wind is coming from the South, West, or even NorthWest. As for tides, the pier tends to work well at low to mid tide, so plan your sessions accordingly. Surfers can ride a variety of boards here - shortboards, funboards, longboards, or even bodyboards - making it a suitable spot for beginners to experts.

Accessing the pier is easy; just park along A1A next to the break. Crowds can vary—it's generally not too packed, but during prime surf conditions, it can get busier. Make sure to be mindful of any occasional hazards while enjoying your time in the water. The surf here is best during the fall and spring months, as well as during hurricane swells, so keep an eye on the forecast if you’re planning a visit.