In celebration of Small Business Week, we are thrilled to share the vibrant history of Summertime Surf, a company born from the passion of surfers aiming to enhance their local surf culture at the Jersey Shore. Join us as we take you through the journey of Summertime Surf, from its humble beginnings to its current status as a beloved institution.

Pre-Summertime Origins

The seeds of Summertime Surf were sown through the summer endeavors of its founders. Shaun, a lifeguard and surf instructor, honed his skills at Eastern Lines in Belmar and 3rd Ave. Surf Shop in Spring Lake. Gil spent his summers lifeguarding in Mantoloking and orchestrating youth trips to a deserted island in the Florida Keys. Mark, living the life of a Belmar grom, filled his summers with caddying, lifeguarding, and working at Eastern Lines.

A pivotal moment came when Shaun transferred to Bond University on the Gold Coast of Australia. This decision connected him with future Summertime collaborators such as Chris, Jon, Gil, Mark, Erik, Pat, Cmac, Duke, Greg, April, Nicole, Jess, Wade, Jessup, Alex, and Maxwell, setting the stage for the birth of Summertime Surf.

How it Started (2006)

In 2006, the North Shore of Oahu experienced its flattest and rainiest winter in 40 years. Shaun utilized this time to craft a business plan for Summertime Surf, LLC. Friendships with future partners were strengthened amidst Hawaiian monsoons, with Gil visiting Hawaii after graduating early from Rutgers, and Mark beginning his freshman year at Hawaii Pacific University.

In Belmar, New Jersey, thanks to the support of Mayor Ken Pringle, Brian McGovern, and Margaret Plummer, Shaun established the first surf camp in the state. May marked the official formation of Summertime Surf, and the inaugural season was met with enthusiasm as Marissa DiNapoli became camper #1, joined by Cooper, Chris, Mikey, Tanner, Brendan, Dylon, Nikki, and many others. Each day, a pop-up tent and a van filled with soft surfboards brought joy to kids and reassured parents, heralding the success of Belmar’s first Surf Camp.

How it’s Going (2025)

Entering 20th Season of sharing the stoke 🤙

Summertime Surf has grown exponentially, with four thriving locations: Asbury Park, Bradley Beach, Belmar, and Point Pleasant. The company now offers surf travel experiences to exciting destinations such as Nicaragua, OBX, and the prestigious Kelly Slater Surf Ranch. As New Jersey’s premier surf school, Summertime Surf boasts over 100 dedicated staff members and provides programs for all ages and abilities.

We are eager to see what the future holds for Summertime Surf as it continues to ride the wave of success. We invite you to join us in celebrating this remarkable journey and to catch a wave with us in the seasons to come!