Commercial Pier

Commercial Pier is a surf spot located in Atlantic Coast, Florida. The spot provides both left and right waves. It’s situated in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, a town in Broward County, about 33 miles north of Miami. The pier is also known as Anglin’s Pier, named after the town’s first mayor, Melvin I. Anglin. This surf spot has a sandy bottom and works best during low and medium tides. It’s suitable for surfers of all levels, but it’s important to check your skills before paddling out to make sure the spot and conditions fit your surfing level. The waves at Commercial Pier can range from waist-high to overhead. The spot sometimes breaks, with wave lengths typically less than 50m. Crowds are usually few, but it’s always important to respect the locals and check the surf etiquette, especially when the spot gets busier. The best surfing conditions are often found during fall to spring. Commercial Pier is known to fire up on good N or NNE mid-period groundswells, particularly during hurricane season or winter swells. Point-style lefts can form off a ledgy takeoff near the pier pilings when the sandbar is established. It also performs well on winter NNW refraction swells and can provide some wind protection on messy NE wind chop days. Both sides of the pier can be fun on smaller SE wind chop. Be aware of potential hazards such as rips, undertow, and man-made dangers like buoys. The area is known for its marine life, including bait fish, stingrays, and occasional sharks. While it might only come to life a handful of times a year, it’s considered one of the better breaks in the Fort Lauderdale area. Parking can be challenging, so arrive early to secure a spot. The town is recognized for its near-shore coral reefs, with one just 100 yards offshore, making it a popular spot for scuba diving as well as surfing. Always prioritize safety and be mindful of your surroundings when surfing at Commercial Pier.