North Carolina • Crystal Coast • Buoy: 41159

Emerald Isle

Good

Wave Height

2-4

ft

Swell

~4s

SE

Wind

15mph

Sideshore (NE)

Water

69°

Springsuit

Rising• High in 14m

Updated: 11/3/2026, 5:34:02 AM • Data: Open-Meteo

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Surf Graph

Clean
Fair
Choppy
Flat

Wave energy

Moderate

How much energy each wave delivers, in kilojoules per metre of wave crest.

10 kJ/m

Right now

10 swell · 0.0 chop

10MODERATEWedThuFriSatSunMon
Groundswell
Wind chop
Drag to scrub

44

Peak this week

Fri

Peaks on

Moderate

At its best

Buoy Check

NDBC 41159
FTSECMISS
Buoy4.97—
Open-Meteo3.06-1.9
WW32.56-2.4
ECMWF3.76-1.2
Blend3.06-1.9
Blend −1.9ft cold2h ago

Tide Forecast

Today
L1:21pm0.7ft
H7:13pm4.5ft
Tomorrow
L2:01am0.4ft
H7:53am4.4ft
L2:20pm0.5ft
H8:15pm4.4ft
Thu, Nov 5
L2:47am0.3ft
H8:52am4.7ft
L3:13pm0.4ft
H9:12pm4.3ft
Fri, Nov 6
L3:32am0.2ft

About Emerald Isle

Emerald Isle sits on the Crystal Coast, catching Atlantic swell along miles of undeveloped shoreline. The waves are typical Carolina beach break—fun, sandy peaks that respond well to tropical systems and winter storms. It's less crowded than spots further north and offers a more laid-back vibe. When conditions align, the sandbars can produce surprisingly hollow, fast waves.

FAQ

What is the water temperature at Emerald Isle?

The current water temperature at Emerald Isle is 69°F. A springsuit or shorty wetsuit is recommended.

What is the surf like at Emerald Isle today?

Emerald Isle currently has waves around 2-4ft. Conditions change throughout the day, so check back for updated forecasts.

What time is high tide at Emerald Isle?

Today's high tide at Emerald Isle is at 1:49 AM ET. Tide times shift daily, so check our forecast for upcoming tide schedules.

What time is low tide at Emerald Isle?

Today's low tide at Emerald Isle is at 8:09 PM ET. Tide times shift daily, so check our forecast for upcoming tide schedules.

What are the best conditions for surfing Emerald Isle?

Emerald Isle works best with swells from the E, SE, S and N, NW winds (offshore). The ideal tide is mid to high.

Is Emerald Isle good for beginners?

Yes, Emerald Isle is suitable for beginners, especially on smaller days. It's always a good idea to check conditions before paddling out and consider taking a lesson if you're new to surfing.

This Week's Outlook

Friday morning looks cleanest with 4ft waves, longer 8 second periods, and light offshore winds pushing out of the south. You'll want to paddle out before the afternoon when it turns more onshore and the wind picks up.

Updated 11/3/2026, 6:06:05 AM

Spot Info

Break TypeBeach Break
BottomSand
Skill LevelBeginner to Intermediate
CrowdLight
Best TideMid to High
Best SwellE, SE, S
Best WindN, NW
ParkingBeach access parking

Local Tip

Less crowded alternative to OBX. Can produce surprisingly hollow waves during storms.