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Local Surfer Insights on Wrightsville Beach’s Surf

October 8, 2025
By Jimmy Fallon of NC Surf Adventures

Local Surfer Insights on Wrightsville Beach’s Surf

Wrightsville Beach has been known as one of America’s top surf towns since surfing first hit the coast in the mid-20th century. Many factors have contributed to this — geography, culture, and ultimately, the swell that makes Southeastern NC such a special place to paddle out.

Being an East Coast surfer comes with challenges, as the Bermuda High pushes swell away from us compared to other parts of the Atlantic. When looking to score surf in Wrightsville Beach, there are three main things to keep in mind: wind, waves, and tide.

Catching Clean Waves: How Wind Shapes Wrightsville Surf

As it says on our license plates, “First in Flight.” The wind is the biggest factor in whether we have a clean wave.

In Wrightsville Beach, an offshore wind comes from the west, while northwesterly winds are also favorable.

  • The best time to catch lower winds? Early mornings.
  • That’s not to say afternoons are bad—just a bit less reliable.
Local Tip

Keep an eye on the forecast the night before. If you see calm morning conditions, set that alarm — dawn patrol is usually worth it.

Swell Stories: When and How the Atlantic Sends Waves to Wrightsville

When looking to enjoy Wrightsville Beach’s surf, we must consider the swell. Geographically, North Carolina sits in a prime spot to pick up energy from the Atlantic Ocean.

In Wrightsville Beach, in particular, waves can range from shin- to knee-high fun sessions to overhead.

September and October tend to be the best times for bigger swells to roll in for more advanced surfers, while summer months provides consistent knee-high waves — perfect for beginners or longboarders.

Season Breakdown

  • Summer: Knee-high consistency for casual rides and learning.
  • Fall: The season of bigger, cleaner swells.
  • Winter/Spring: Less predictable but can bring surprisingly fun days after storms.

Tides & Timing: When the Wrightsville Waves Really Work

Lastly, we need to factor in the tides for catching the best waves in Wrightsville Beach.

Generally, a high tide tends to have the waves breaking closer to the beach, particularly when there is a smaller swell in the water. Thus, low and mid-tides are generally the best times to get out there, as waves break over the outside sandbar.

  • Low tide: Great for advanced surfers — waves stand up taller and can be steeper.
  • Mid-tide: Better for intermediate and beginner surfers, offering a more gradual wave.

Pro Tip

Use a tide chart app before you go. Knowing your timing can turn a mediocre surf day into a magic one.

Reading the Ocean: Wrightsville Beach Surf Forecast Tools

There are various ways to find great waves, but forecasting can be quite challenging. We rely on a combo of apps like Surfline, Windy, and other local forecasters to gauge conditions.

If you’re planning a surf day, keep your mornings open for glassy conditions and your afternoons for everything else. Because, at the end of the day, the ocean has the final say.

Top Forecast Apps for Wrightsville Beach

 

Sometimes, you just have to get out there to experience what the ocean has to offer. It might look like the worst session from shore — but once you touch the water, it could become the best!

 

Lessons can be booked with Jimmy Fallon from NC Surf Adventures on our Experiences Page.