Ron Jon's Surf Shop

Ron Jon's is the most famous surf shop in the world and it's located right here in Cocoa Beach, Florida.

Most people don't think of this area of the Florida coastline as being a good surf spot, but as one of my neighbors told me, it's the best place to learn how to surf because of the often moderate waves. And there are a large amount of surfers here. When the storms kick the surf up, when tropical storms or hurricanes move in, surfers head to the beach, in droves.

But as such, Ron Jon's has capitalized on this. He built a gleaming tribute to surf-dom (and really, other extreme sports) in the heart of Cocoa Beach. The store is a two story tribute to everything beach and tropical.

Need wind chimes, they have it. Need flip flops, more pairs than you can count. Need bathing suits, you bet you. Need surf boards, well, duh, that's what they're here for.

Walking into Ron Jon's will make your mouth drop open. You can take the stairs up to the mezzanine level, which houses women's bathing suits, hats, Ron Jon t-shirts, skateboards, skim boards and of course, their fine collection of surf boards, and they do have a fine collection. Or you can take the glass elevator, which on the lower level is surrounded by a small, babbling water feature. Once on the upper floor, you can look down at the rest of the store while skylight windows fill the every inch of the store with sunlight.

I'm not a surfer and I was in awe. It's a great retail space, to be sure. The prices? A little high, but you're paying for the Ron Jon's name. Believe me, nothing in the store can be bought without his name emblazoned on it somewhere. Nevertheless, in peak months, this place is packed.

Ron Jon's offers more than just a retail store. Across the street is his rental store, where customers can rent everything from chairs and umbrellas, to bikes to surf boards.

Of course he also offers surf lessons. However, as someone who lives here, I suggest either the Surf Company across the street or hire a private surf instructor. Because of Ron Jon's name, he will be a little bit more pricey (I suggest Cape Fear.)

Travelers beware: when entering the Ron Jon's store you just might be greeted by one of his employees encouraging you to visit the Ron Jon's Resort. The Ron Jon's Resort is NOT on the beach, although a few select upper units will afford you a view of the ocean. It is within easy walking distance to the beach and is located close to Port Canaveral and it's restaurants. If you qualify, financially, they will give you a free weekend to try on the resort.

In short, Ron Jon's is touristy. If you're into that, then ok. As a local, I prefer local places. In the long run, you'll get a better value from local stores.