Charleston · Surf
Charleston surf, by spot.
Tuesday, May 5 · refreshed every 30 min
Wind
0 mph
N
Air temp
57°F
Clear
Today's tide
Low 5:10 AM
then high 10:56 AM
Spots
Folly Beach Pier (Northside)
Charleston's most popular spot. Sandbar to the north of the pier holds shape on small to chest-high days. Crowded weekends, friendly lineup, walking distance to coffee.
- Best tide
- Mid → high incoming
- Best wind
- W / NW offshore
- Skill level
- Beginner-friendly to intermediate
The Washout (Folly Beach)
South-end Folly's hurricane-shaped break. Best after fall storms and during NE swells. Punchy, hollow when it's on; lifeless when it isn't.
- Best tide
- Mid → low
- Best wind
- W / NW offshore
- Skill level
- Intermediate to advanced
Isle of Palms (29th–34th Ave)
Forgiving beach break stretching for miles. Smaller and slower than Folly but a good place to learn. Best on E / NE swell with light wind.
- Best tide
- Mid
- Best wind
- W / SW offshore
- Skill level
- Beginner
Sullivan's Island
Generally smaller than IOP and Folly but rideable on bigger swells. Less crowded, easier parking. Closest spot if you're staying downtown.
- Best tide
- Low → mid incoming
- Best wind
- W / NW offshore
- Skill level
- Beginner to intermediate
Plan around the conditions
Need to know
Frequently asked
- What's the best time of year to surf Charleston?
- September through early December is the best window. Hurricane and Nor'easter swells fire fall surf and water is still warm. Spring (March–May) gets occasional E/NE swells. Summer is small and warm — beginner season. January–February brings the biggest cold-weather swells but you'll need a 4/3 wetsuit.
- Do I need a wetsuit?
- Late May through October: trunks. April + November: 2mm spring suit. December–March: 3/2 or 4/3 fullsuit + booties on the coldest mornings.
- Where's the best place to take a surf lesson in Charleston?
- Folly Beach is the canonical learning spot — multiple long-running surf schools operate near the pier. Most run 90-minute group lessons with boards and rashguards included.
- Can I rent a surfboard?
- Yes — Folly Beach has multiple board rental shops near Center Street and the pier. Day rates run $25–$50 depending on board type. Bring cash and arrive early on summer weekends.
- Is the surf in Charleston actually any good?
- It's not Hawaii or California, but it's better than its reputation. Fall hurricane swells produce real, fun surf. The beach-break sandbars at Folly hold shape well, the water's warm 7 months a year, and the crowds are friendly. Locals quietly love it.
Conditions sourced from NWS / NOAA. Surf rises and falls quickly in Charleston — double-check with a webcam before driving out.