Island Water Sports: A Family Legacy of Surf, Skate, and Water Sports
Established in 1978 by Kirk Cottrell in Pompano Beach, Florida, Island Water Sports quickly became a renowned surf shop in Deerfield Beach. The business thrived throughout the 1980s, expanding to 26 franchised stores. However, the 1990s brought challenges, leading Cottrell to relaunch the business with a more conservative approach. In 1997, Cottrell and his family moved to South Africa to work as missionaries, and tragically, he lost his life in a surfing accident in 2001.
Today, Island Water Sports is carried on by Cottrell's son, Cheyne, and the family. The business maintains a strong presence in Deerfield Beach, where the Kirk Cottrell Pavilion, named in his honor, hosts free surf lessons for children. Customers can also visit the store's outpost in Delray Beach, where they can find a wide array of offerings, including clothing, accessories, surfboards, skateboards, and more.
The store's rental services cater to water sports enthusiasts, offering surfboard, stand-up paddleboard, bicycle, and e-bike rentals. Additionally, they host surf and skate camps for kids and provide private and group lessons for surfing and stand-up paddleboarding.
The staff at Island Water Sports are praised for their expertise, friendliness, and genuine passion for the surf and skate scene. Customers often describe the store as an "iconic family-owned business" that has given so much to the community, inspiring the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts.
Whether you're a seasoned surfer or just starting your water sports journey, Island Water Sports is the go-to destination for an authentic and welcoming experience, carrying on the legacy of its founder, Kirk Cottrell.
This shop has everything you need for a day at the beach but also the cutest clothes. Service was excellent.
July 2026
Best shop around! They have everything and anything you need for a successful surf trip or beach day, and the team was friendly and helpful!
July 2026
Phenomenal shop with great, knowledgeable staff who will make your shopping experience rich and rewarding. Great selection for the surfer and lifestyle shopper. Five stars all day!
