Hilton Head Surf Forecast, South Carolina
South Carolina
Current Conditions
Very PoorWave Height
0-1ft
flat to ankle high
Swell Period
7.65s
Wind
6mph
SE / Gusts 11mph
Conditions
Very Poor
Active Swells
Wind Swell
1.7ft @ 8sSE
Daily Forecast
3 of 5 daysTue, Mar 31Flat
Very Poor6am9am12pm3pm
Wed, Apr 1Flat
Very PoorA slow one — 0-1ft waves and very poor conditions with light S winds.
6am9am12pm3pm
7s SE|3-5mph SSW
Thu, Apr 2Flat
Very PoorSlim pickings today — 0-1ft and very poor with light ESE winds.
6am9am12pm3pm
8s SE|5-8mph E
Forecast Charts
Hilton Head Surf Spot Guide
Break
Beach
Bottom
Sand
Level
Beginner
Crowd
Moderate
Best Swell
S
Best Wind
NW
Season
Fall
Hilton Head's beaches offer gentle, rolling waves ideal for learning and improving fundamental skills on sandy, forgiving breaks. The area benefits from Atlantic swells during fall and winter months, with consistent small-to-medium sized waves that peel across wide sandy beaches. This popular resort destination provides convenient access to multiple break points along the island's eastern shores, making it a reliable choice for beginner surfers seeking warmer water and laid-back vibes.
Tourists and swimmersSeasonal rip currentsSharp shells in sand
Wave heights shown are breaking wave heights — the actual rideable wave size at this spot.
Hilton Head Surf Forecast FAQ
What is the current surf forecast for Hilton Head?
The current wave height at Hilton Head is 0-1ft with a 7.65s swell period. Wind is SE at 6mph. Conditions are rated Very Poor.
How accurate is the Hilton Head surf forecast?
Our Hilton Head forecast uses NOAA GFS and other weather models combined with spot-specific bathymetry to calculate breaking wave heights. Short-range (1-3 day) forecasts are most reliable. Extended forecasts show general trends.
What is the breaking wave height at Hilton Head?
The current breaking wave height at Hilton Head is 0-1ft, produced by a 1.7ft SE wind swell swell at 8s. Breaking wave height is the actual rideable wave size at the shore — calculated from offshore swell data using this spot's coastal bathymetry — not the raw buoy reading.
When is the best time to surf Hilton Head?
Based on the current 5-day forecast, the best window to surf Hilton Head is Friday from 6 AM to 9 AM with 1ft waves, a 7.1s swell period, and conditions rated Very Poor. Check the hourly forecast for updates as conditions can shift.