Inlet Beach Pier is a surf spot that has recently become accessible to surfers after years of being off-limits due to the area being owned by a corporation. The State of Florida purchased this land, turning it into Camp Helen State Park. While driving into the park isn't an option, you can still access the pier from the community located west of it. The spot is not easy to find and parking can be tricky, but it's worth the effort for those looking for a mellow surf experience.
The pier is at a coastal lake outflow, similar to Grayton Beach, which creates a nice sandbar that can handle swell sizes ranging from 4 to 8 feet (about 1.2 to 2.4 meters). The best surf conditions typically occur with swells coming from the South and South-Southwest, featuring waves that break over sand. You can catch both right and left waves here, making it suitable for a range of skill levels from beginners to experts. The preferable wind directions are from the North to Northeast, and the best tide heights to aim for are low to mid. The set-up can go from waist to overhead in size, giving various opportunities depending on the swell.
The overall vibe is pretty relaxed, with not much of a crowd to deal with. The area is along the beautiful emerald coast, known for its stunning water color. Just a heads up, in the summer, be cautious about parking as it’s easy to get your car towed. This spot is pretty average overall; while it's not a must-visit destination for surfers, it can definitely provide some decent sessions.
