The Surf Window

Wrightsville Beach

North Carolina, USA

Beach breakBeginner

A beautiful barrier island near Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach is North Carolina's most beloved surf destination, consistent Atlantic swell in a charming, low-key beach community that has shaped generations of Carolina surfers.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalE (90°)
WindowNNE–SSE (30°–150°)

Wind

W

Offshore

Tide

mid tide

LowMidHigh

Season

October

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Both

Bottom

Sand

Shape

Moderate beach break, consistent, fun peaks that work across a range of swell sizes

Length

30–70m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Beginner
  • •Why: Warm water in summer, consistent swell, and a welcoming surf community make this great for developing surfers.

Hazards

  • •Shore pound on hurricane swells
  • •Rip currents near the inlets
  • •Summer jellyfish

Local Tips

  • •Wrightsville Beach hosts an annual surf contest that draws the best East Coast talent, great spectator surfing.
  • •Crystal Pier and the south end of the island near Masonboro Inlet tend to produce the most consistent sandbars.

Location

Map showing the location of Wrightsville Beach in North Carolina, USA

34.2080, -77.7956