Most people wouldn’t expect to find great surf spots in lower Alabama. 

Then again, most people wouldn’t expect to find a coffee shop in a surf shack in lower Alabama, either. And yet, they’re both here—great places to surf, and a gathering place in Gulf Shores where surfers can hang out and get their caffeine fix, Tambo’s Surf Shack. 

While Alabama only boasts about 40 miles of surfable coastline, there are still plenty of places to score some waves. Alabama Point in Orange Beach is considered one of the most popular, along with Spuds and Terry’s Cove on either side of it. The waves at Dauphin Island are considered a bit softer, so it’s a great spot for beginners. 

In short, Alabama is for surfers. And nobody embodies Alabama surf culture like Mike Tomburello, AKA “Tambo,” owner of Tambo’s Surf Shack. He left the area to surf professionally around the world, then moved back home 12 years later with the goal of bringing surf culture with him by opening a true surf shop. 

“If you’re a surfer on the Gulf Coast, you’re a masochist,” according to Tambo. “That’s because surfing around here peaks in winter when the water is freezing cold and waist high.” Thankfully, Tambo’s has plenty of wetsuits to take the edge off. But that’s not all you’ll find there. 

Tambo’s is a hub for a strong community of surfers and skateboarders of all ages and skill levels. And there’s plenty to draw them here besides the lessons, camps, clothing, equipment, boards, and other products Tambo’s sells. In addition to the coffeeshop, there’s also a full-sized skateboarding bowl inside the store, plus multiple gathering areas and overall vibe that says, “you belong here and there's probably no place you’d rather be except for on a wave.” 

“A lot of the time, especially in winter after school, you’ll find high school guys in here with their laptops doing homework, then skateboarding while their girlfriends drink coffee,” says Tambo. 

While waves along the Alabama Gulf Coast may not be as large or consistent as those on the Atlantic or Pacific coasts, there's still a dedicated group of locals and tourists who know Alabama is the place to be for surfing and Tambo’s is the place to be when they aren’t.

“Surfing is important to me because our area has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and I’ve seen a lot of beaches around the world,” says Tambo. Chances are, you knew that already, so why not hit the waves the next time you hit one of our pristine beaches? 

Ready to surf Alabama? Be sure to check surfing conditions before you head out, and visit Tambo’s before you go.