South Carolina • CharlestonBuoy: 41013

Folly Beach

Junky

Wave Height

1-3

ft

Swell

~4s

ESE

Wind

11mph

Offshore (W)

Water

82°

Boardshorts

Rising• High in 2h 22m

Updated: 9/18/2026, 5:33:10 PM • Data: Open-Meteo

Accurate?

Surf Graph

Clean
Fair
Choppy
Flat

Tide Forecast

Today
H5:56am4.2ft
L11:50am1.6ft
H6:38pm5.2ft
Tomorrow
L12:56am1.8ft
H6:49am4.2ft
L12:54pm1.6ft
H7:31pm5.2ft
Mon, Sep 21
L1:58am1.7ft
H7:42am4.3ft
L1:58pm1.5ft
H8:23pm5.3ft
Tue, Sep 22
L2:50am1.5ft

Recent History

No recent history available

About Folly Beach

Folly Beach is Charleston's surf hub, offering the most consistent waves in the area thanks to its south-facing exposure. The pier provides a focal point, and the sandbars can produce fun, punchy peaks. It's a vibrant beach community with an active local surf scene. Hurricane season brings the best conditions, but Folly picks up more swell year-round than most Carolina beaches.

FAQ

What is the water temperature at Folly Beach?

The current water temperature at Folly Beach is 82°F. Boardshorts or a rashguard should be comfortable.

What is the surf like at Folly Beach today?

Folly Beach currently has waves around 1-3ft. Conditions change throughout the day, so check back for updated forecasts.

What time is high tide at Folly Beach?

Today's high tide at Folly Beach is at 1:56 AM ET. Tide times shift daily, so check our forecast for upcoming tide schedules.

What time is low tide at Folly Beach?

Today's low tide at Folly Beach is at 7:50 AM ET. Tide times shift daily, so check our forecast for upcoming tide schedules.

What are the best conditions for surfing Folly Beach?

Folly Beach works best with swells from the E, SE, S and N, NW, W winds (offshore). The ideal tide is mid.

Is Folly Beach good for beginners?

Yes, Folly Beach 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

Wednesday morning is your call with 3-foot waves on a shorter period and east winds holding it together before the crowd shows up. Thursday AM is solid backup if you sleep through it, same size but the swell's already starting to fade by then.

Updated 9/14/2026, 6:06:15 PM

Spot Info

Break TypeBeach Break
BottomSand
Skill LevelAll Levels
CrowdModerate to Heavy
Best TideMid
Best SwellE, SE, S
Best WindN, NW, W
ParkingStreet parking and public lots

Local Tip

Charleston's surf hub. Most consistent waves in the area. Active local scene.