As a long-time surfer who’s spent countless hours riding the waves along South Carolina’s coast, I can tell you that Myrtle Beach offers a unique surfing experience for both beginners and intermediate wave riders. The warm Atlantic waters and gentle swells make it an ideal spot to catch your first wave or perfect your technique.
I’ve discovered that while Myrtle Beach might not compete with Hawaii’s massive waves it’s got something special to offer. The best surfing spots here come alive during hurricane season when the swells pick up and especially during early morning sessions when the wind conditions are optimal. From 29th Avenue South to Cherry Grove Pier there’s no shortage of great breaks to explore. Whether you’re planning your first surfing adventure or looking for a new spot to ride I’ll share everything you need to know about surfing in this coastal paradise.
Key Takeaways
- Myrtle Beach offers optimal surfing conditions from late August through November, with waves reaching 4-6 feet during winter months and 1-2 feet in summer.
- Best surfing spots include Cherry Grove Pier, Apache Pier, and Gardens City Beach, with early morning sessions providing the most favorable wind conditions.
- Water temperatures range from 58°F to 82°F throughout the year, requiring different wetsuit options from rash guards in summer to 4/3mm sealed wetsuits in winter.
- Several professional surf schools offer lessons, with prices ranging from $45-95 depending on group size and lesson duration.
- Local surf etiquette emphasizes respecting right of way, maintaining safe distances, and following specific beach safety regulations and designated surfing zones.
Myrtle Beach Surfing
The prime surfing season in Myrtle Beach spans from late August through November, coinciding with hurricane season and winter swells. Based on my decade of surfing experience here, I’ve tracked the most consistent waves during these months.
Summer vs Winter Surf Conditions
Summer waves at Myrtle Beach average 1-2 feet in height with occasional 3-foot swells during tropical systems. Winter brings more powerful north swells with wave heights reaching 4-6 feet, creating excellent surfing conditions from December through February. Morning sessions offer the cleanest waves in summer due to offshore winds, while winter afternoons provide better conditions with warmer temperatures.
| Season | Wave Height | Wind Conditions | Water Temperature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | 1-2 feet | Morning offshore | 75-85°F |
| Winter | 4-6 feet | Afternoon cross | 50-60°F |
Monitoring Local Wave Reports
I rely on three primary sources for accurate wave forecasts at Myrtle Beach:
- Surfline’s Cherry Grove Pier forecast updates every 3 hours
- NOAA buoy data provides real-time wave heights offshore
- Local surf shop reports offer firsthand conditions from experienced surfers
The most reliable forecasts combine data from the 41013 NOAA buoy with visual observations from Cherry Grove Pier. I check these sources daily between 5-6 AM for morning sessions or 3-4 PM for evening surf opportunities.
Popular Surf Spots Along the Grand Strand
The Grand Strand’s 60-mile coastline features distinct surf breaks scattered throughout Myrtle Beach’s iconic piers and sandy beaches. I’ve mapped out the prime locations where surfers congregate for optimal wave conditions.
The Pier Hot Spots
The piers create artificial reefs that shape incoming swells into surfable waves. Here are the top pier spots I frequent:
- Cherry Grove Pier: Located at North Myrtle Beach, produces consistent right breaks during northeast swells
- Apache Pier: Stretching 1,206 feet, generates dependable waves on both sides with south-facing swells
- 14th Avenue Pier: Creates powerful A-frame peaks during hurricane season (August-November)
- Springmaid Pier: Offers protected surf zones during northern winds with 1-3 foot waves
- 29th Avenue South: Forms sand bars creating wedging waves during moderate swells
- Gardens City Beach: Features multiple peaks with less crowd density than pier spots
- Surfside Beach: Produces hollow waves during southwest winds with 2-4 foot swells
- 53rd Avenue North: Offers consistent waves during morning sessions with offshore winds
| Location | Best Wave Height | Optimal Tide | Best Wind Direction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cherry Grove Pier | 2-4 ft | Mid | SW |
| Apache Pier | 3-5 ft | Low-Mid | W |
| Gardens City Beach | 1-3 ft | High | NW |
| Surfside Beach | 2-4 ft | Mid | SW |
Essential Gear for Myrtle Beach Surfing
Equipping yourself with the right gear enhances your surfing experience at Myrtle Beach’s diverse breaks. I’ve compiled specific gear recommendations based on 10+ years of surfing these waters.
Seasonal Wetsuit Guide
Myrtle Beach water temperatures fluctuate from 58°F to 82°F throughout the year, requiring different wetsuit options:
- Summer (June-August): 2mm sleeveless wetsuit or rash guard for early mornings
- Fall (September-November): 3/2mm full wetsuit during dawn sessions
- Winter (December-February): 4/3mm sealed wetsuit with boots gloves hood
- Spring (March-May): 3/2mm full wetsuit transitioning to spring suit
| Season | Water Temp (°F) | Recommended Wetsuit |
|---|---|---|
| Summer | 75-82 | Rash Guard/2mm |
| Fall | 65-75 | 3/2mm Full |
| Winter | 58-65 | 4/3mm + Accessories |
| Spring | 65-72 | 3/2mm Full |
Board Selection Tips
The varied wave conditions at Myrtle Beach demand specific board characteristics:
- Short Boards (5’8″”-6’2″”): Perfect for summer waves under 3 feet
- Fun Boards (7′-8′): Ideal for mushy waves common at pier breaks
- Longboards (9’+): Essential for small summer swells under 2 feet
- Fish Boards (5’6″”-5’10″”): Optimal for choppy hurricane season waves
| Surfer Weight (lbs) | Beginner Volume (L) | Intermediate Volume (L) |
|---|---|---|
| 120-150 | 38-44 | 32-38 |
| 150-180 | 44-50 | 38-44 |
| 180-200 | 50-56 | 44-50 |
Surf Schools and Lessons
Myrtle Beach offers professional surf instruction through certified schools along the Grand Strand. I’ve researched numerous local surf schools that provide comprehensive lessons for all skill levels with experienced instructors.
Top-Rated Instructors
Myrtle Beach’s surf instructors hold certifications from recognized organizations like the National Surf Schools and Instructors Association (NSSIA). Three standout schools include:
- Jack’s Surf Lessons: Features CPR-certified instructors with 10+ years of teaching experience
- Surf City Surf School: Employs former professional surfers who teach ISA-approved techniques
- Carolina School of Surf: Maintains a 4:1 student-to-instructor ratio with bilingual coaches
Group vs Private Classes
The pricing structure for surf lessons in Myrtle Beach varies based on class format:
| Lesson Type | Duration | Average Cost | Max Students |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private | 90 min | $75-95 | 1 |
| Semi-Private | 90 min | $65-85/person | 2-3 |
| Group | 2 hours | $45-65/person | 4-8 |
Private lessons offer:
- One-on-one attention focused on specific skill development
- Flexible scheduling options
- Customized instruction pace
- Cost-effective learning environment
- Social interaction with fellow beginners
- Structured progression through fundamental techniques
- Multiple perspectives from watching others learn
Local Surf Culture and Etiquette
The Myrtle Beach surf community embraces a welcoming atmosphere while maintaining essential etiquette guidelines. As a local surfer, I’ve observed distinct cultural elements that shape our surfing experience.
- Drop in on unoccupied waves only
- Paddle around the break zone, not through it
- Give right of way to surfers closer to the peak
- Maintain a 15-foot distance from other surfers
- Exit the water when thunder or lightning occurs
- Alert fellow surfers of potential hazards (sharks, jellyfish, rip currents)
Social Dynamics
- Morning sessions feature local regulars gathering at pier breaks
- Weekend crowds increase with visiting surfers
- Pier-specific communities develop around each major break
- Local surf shops serve as social hubs for wave reports
- Dawn patrol groups organize through social media platforms
- Monthly beach cleanups unite the surfing community
Communication Signals
- One arm up: checking if another surfer is taking the wave
- Two arms crossed: indicating a broken board or emergency
- Slapping the water: warning others of marine life
- Pointing toward shore: signaling dangerous conditions
- Shaka sign: acknowledging fellow surfers
- Paddle hand signals: directing others toward better breaks
Local Customs
- Park in designated areas near surf spots
- Support local surf shops over chain retailers
- Respect pier fishing activities
- Leave no trace on the beach
- Share wave reports with fellow surfers
- Participate in local surf competitions
- Check lifeguard flags before entering
- Surf with a buddy during off-season
- Monitor weather conditions via local apps
- Register boards with beach patrol
- Know emergency contact procedures
- Follow beach access point guidelines
This surf culture creates a balanced environment between locals enjoying their home breaks while welcoming visitors who respect these established practices.
Beach Safety and Regulations
General Safety Guidelines
Myrtle Beach enforces specific safety protocols for surfers, with designated surfing zones marked by colored flags. Red flags indicate dangerous conditions with no swimming or surfing allowed. Yellow flags signal caution with moderate surf conditions. Green flags represent safe conditions for water activities.
Surfing Zones and Restrictions
- Surf only in designated areas 100+ yards away from fishing piers
- Maintain 75+ feet distance from swimmers during peak season
- Access permitted from 10 AM to 5 PM during summer months (May-September)
- Unrestricted surfing hours during off-season (October-April)
Required Equipment
- USCG-approved leash attached to board
- Visible board color or markings
- Safety whistle for emergencies
- Personal flotation device for beginners
Beach Patrol Guidelines
| Time Period | Patrol Hours | Response Time |
|------------|--------------|---------------|
| Peak Season| 8AM - 7PM | 3-5 minutes |
| Off Season | 9AM - 5PM | 5-7 minutes |
Emergency Procedures
- Call 911 for immediate assistance
- Signal lifeguards with crossed arms above head
- Move away from rip currents by swimming parallel to shore
- Report hazards to beach patrol: 843-918-1000
Environmental Protection
- Keep 50+ feet from sea turtle nesting areas
- Pack out all equipment debris
- Avoid trampling dune vegetation
- Report wildlife incidents to local authorities
- Check daily surf forecasts before entering water
- Exit water during lightning storms
- Monitor National Weather Service alerts
- Follow lifeguard instructions for sudden condition changes
These regulations ensure safe surfing conditions while protecting Myrtle Beach’s marine environment. Violation of these rules may result in fines or suspension of beach access privileges.
Surf Etiquette
Myrtle Beach offers a perfect blend of surfing opportunities for every skill level. I’ve found that with the right knowledge of spots timing and equipment anyone can enjoy riding waves along the Grand Strand. From the consistent breaks at the piers to the welcoming local surf community there’s something special about surfing here.
Whether you’re a beginner taking your first lesson or an experienced surfer chasing hurricane swells I’m confident you’ll find your perfect wave at Myrtle Beach. Just remember to respect local etiquette pack the right gear and stay safe. The waves are waiting for you!