South Island Surf Guide
Surf spot guide
Ideal Surf Conditions
Swell Direction
S, SE, E
Wind
W, NW
Surf Height
Waist-overhead high
Tide
Low to mid at the ends of the islands; mid to high at the central beachbreaks.
South Island Surf Guide
South Island is to the south of Winyah Bay and is undeveloped. Access by boat only. It's somewhat shadowed on northeast swells by sandbars, but well exposed to southeasterly hurricane swells. Check out the Yawkey Wildlife Center for more information.
Ability Level
Intermediate - Advanced
Intermediate to advanced. Get hurt out here, and it's a long way from home.
Local Vibe
Welcoming
None.
Crowd Factor
Mellow
None.
Spot Rating
Poor
Scattered peaks, ideal for all types surfers most days.
Shoulder Burn
Medium
Hard NE and SW winds can produce strong currents, but generally pretty mellow.
Water Quality
Clean
Clean.
Hazards
Sharkier than average. Strong currents near the inlets. No one around to help you if you injure yourself so take precaution.
Bring Your
Shortboard, Funboard, Longboard, Fish, SUP
Access
Difficult access -- only by boat. Once here, surf anywhere.
Bottom
Sand.
Best Season
Late summer, early fall, early spring.
Do you have local knowledge about South Island?
If you have any insights or information to add to this spot guide, drop us a note at [email protected]