3 Verified Surf Shops

Surf Shops in Portland

Portland may sit 80 miles inland from the Oregon coast, but its three dedicated surf shops serve as essential basecamp outposts for wave-hungry locals and visitors heading to breaks like Seaside, Cannon Beach, and Short Sands. These shops stock cold-water gear built for the Pacific Northwest—quality wetsuits, boots, and hoods that handle Oregon's year-round 50-degree water temps. You'll find knowledgeable staff who surf these breaks regularly and offer genuine beta on swell conditions, tide windows, and which coastal spots fire during specific conditions. Beyond surf essentials, Portland itself delivers excellent coffee culture, craft breweries, food cart pods, and easy access to both mountain and coast. Stock up on wax, grab a proper wetsuit repair, or dial in your quiver before making the scenic drive west to the rugged Oregon coastline.

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Why surfers love Portland

Planning tips before you visit

Surfing near Portland primarily means driving to the Oregon Coast, typically 90 minutes away. Winter demands thick wetsuits (5/4mm or better) and hoods due to cold water temperatures. Summer offers milder conditions, though the water remains brisk. Plan weekday trips to avoid heavy weekend traffic on US-26. It is advisable to call ahead to confirm shop hours, especially outside peak summer months, as some smaller coastal outposts may operate reduced schedules.

Services & gear you'll find here

Portland-area surf shops focus heavily on outfitting travelers for cold-water conditions. Expect high-quality rentals including 6/5/4mm hooded wetsuits, boots, and gloves, necessary for year-round Oregon sessions. Many shops offer reliable ding repair services, often required after rough transport or cold-water wipeouts. While custom shaping is less common locally than on the immediate coast, shops frequently stock boards suited for the Pacific Northwest's powerful beach breaks and reef setups. Ask about local tide chart resources.

FAQs about surf shops in Portland

Water temperatures range significantly. During the summer months (July-September), expect temperatures around 54-58°F. In winter, temperatures drop to the low 40s, necessitating full cold-water gear, including booties and gloves, which shops usually stock or rent.

Yes, most established surf shops catering to the coastal traffic provide beginner packages. These typically include a stable soft-top board and a quality full wetsuit. It is best to reserve these packages in advance, especially for weekend rentals during summer travel periods.

No. Portland is situated inland on the Willamette River. Viable ocean surfing requires a drive to the coast, with Cannon Beach or Pacific City being common destinations. River surfing opportunities exist but require specialized knowledge and equipment not typically supported by standard surf retail operations.