Upham Beach Park is a popular surf spot north of Champa Bay. It's known as one of the better pointbreaks in West Florida, attracting surfers looking for a modicum of fun. The beach offers a mix of sand and some rocky areas, and while it has its moments, it's not as pristine as it was back in the 80s. Access to the beach is public, which means it can get quite crowded when the waves are on.
Surfing here means you're usually looking at rides measuring anywhere from 2ft to 6ft (approximately 0.6m to 1.8m), and the best conditions typically come with a Northwest swell. The waves roll in right and they tend to be soft and slow, perfect for beginners and intermediate surfers. For the best experience, try to catch it on mid to high tides. If you're watching the wind, Northerly directions really clean things up and make for more rideable waves. Just know it can also get a bit tricky on days with bigger windswell.
Upham Beach tends to attract a crowd, especially when it’s breaking, creating a lively atmosphere. It's a great spot for all surfing levels, whether you’re on a shortboard, funboard, longboard, or even skimming. The crowd factor can feel nostalgic, reflecting its long-time status as a go-to spot. As the season changes from fall to spring and even during hurricane swells, you might find more than just a few locals out enjoying the waves.