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South Carolina • CharlestonBuoy: 41013

Isle of Palms

Junky

Wave Height

1-2

ft

Swell

~4s

SE

Wind

11mph

Onshore (S)

Water

73°

Boardshorts

Falling• Low in 24m

Updated: 5/5/2026, 5:33:39 PM • Data: Open-Meteo

Accurate?

Surf Graph

Clean
Fair
Choppy
Flat

Tide Forecast

Tomorrow
H2:52am5.1ft
L9:19am0.7ft
H3:07pm3.9ft
L9:12pm0.9ft
Thu, May 7
H3:40am4.8ft
L10:02am0.9ft
H3:58pm3.8ft
L9:57pm1.0ft
Fri, May 8
H4:31am4.7ft
L10:48am0.9ft
H4:52pm3.9ft

Recent History

No recent history available

About Isle of Palms

Isle of Palms offers a quieter alternative to nearby Folly Beach, with similar wave potential and fewer crowds. The sandbars produce typical Carolina beach break—fun and forgiving most days, with more punch during storm swells. It's a residential beach community with a mellow vibe. When conditions come together, Isle of Palms delivers uncrowded, quality surf.

FAQ

What is the water temperature at Isle of Palms?

The current water temperature at Isle of Palms is 73°F. Boardshorts or a rashguard should be comfortable.

What is the surf like at Isle of Palms today?

Isle of Palms currently has waves around 1-2ft. Conditions change throughout the day, so check back for updated forecasts.

What time is high tide at Isle of Palms?

Today's high tide at Isle of Palms is at 10:09 PM ET. Tide times shift daily, so check our forecast for upcoming tide schedules.

What time is low tide at Isle of Palms?

Today's low tide at Isle of Palms is at 4:38 AM ET. Tide times shift daily, so check our forecast for upcoming tide schedules.

What are the best conditions for surfing Isle of Palms?

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

Is Isle of Palms good for beginners?

Yes, Isle of Palms 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

Thursday morning looks like your best bet with 2-3ft waves and lighter afternoon winds if you can time it right around the incoming tide. Friday morning could work too, but that southwest wind might get a bit junky by midday.

Updated 5/5/2026, 6:08:25 PM

Spot Info

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

Local Tip

Hurricane season is when it shines. Generally mellow but can surprise with power during storms.