Surfline's brand new East Coast editorial correspondent (as well as former ESM editor, current Surfing mag editor-at-large, and all around nice guy) Matt Walker replies:

You present an interesting question, Admiral Nelson. The East Coast offers so many variables in terms of surf, culture and climate, that it's almost impossible to pick just one state as the "best place." But in terms of strict surf quality and consistency, there are a few that you can cross off automatically. Georgia's probably the worst choice for its ridiculously wide continental shelf and giant tidal range matched with comparatively tiny swell. And you can probably nix the Gulf Coast of Florida for its lack of consistency -- although some El Nino hurricane seasons can outshine the Atlantic.

After that, it's really a matter of conditions. If you like warm water, Florida's a good choice provided you have an appetite for mushburgers with a side of crowds on the salad days. On the other side of the spectrum, New England's got three secret reefs and two points for every one surfer -- but with water temps requiring wetsuits virtually year round, you better have a rubber fetish.

Your best bet for a mix of solid surf and reasonable weather is somewhere in the Mid-Atlantic. From New York to Cape Hatteras is just one big barreling sandbar, so perhaps you're best off choosing on the basis of lifestyle. If you want to be near a big city go live on Long Island. You're just a couple of hours from NYC and the surf's way better than the Miami area. If you're looking to escape completely, there's the Outer Banks, filled with empty barrels and rocking bars. And in between you've got everything from the Garden State's mix of gamble resort cities and sleepy shore towns to the Wilmington area's college life.

The good news is that no matter your choice, it's hard to beat any East Coast community in terms of hospitality and vibe. Spend a few months in the mix, and you'll be one of the crew in no time.