Water temperature in Folly Beach

Folly Beach, South Carolina

Water temperatures refreshed hourly from NOAA buoys and forecast models.

Folly Beach water stays swimmable most of the year, but winter cold fronts can drop temps fast. Hurricane season brings the warmest water alongside the best waves. This guide helps you pick the right rubber for each season.

62°F
3/2mm fullsuit

Standard fullsuit for mild conditions

7-Day Temperature Trend

Data from Folly Beach · Updated hourly

Beach Water Temperatures

Current water temperatures at each surf spot. Temperatures can vary based on local conditions, currents, and depth.

Folly Beach

61°F

3/2mm sealed

Surf spots in Folly Beach

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Featured Beaches(1)

Folly Beach

Intermediate

Folly Beach is a long barrier island south of Charleston with several fun breaks. The Washout—a stretch blown open by Hurricane Hugo—produces punchy peaks on SE‑NE swells, while the Folly Beach Pier offers long lefts on the south side. It's friendly for beginners when small but can handle good size during hurricane season.

Spot guide for Folly Beach

Break types, ratings, and local tips for each beach.

Folly Beach
beach
lower-intermediate

Folly Beach is a long barrier island south of Charleston with several fun breaks. The Washout—a stretch blown open by Hurricane Hugo—produces punchy peaks on SE‑NE swells, while the Folly Beach Pier offers long lefts on the south side. It's friendly for beginners when small but can handle good size during hurricane season.

What to know about water temperature

  • Weekly temperature trends and seasonal averages
  • Gear recommendations for dawn patrol versus midday
  • Upwelling signals that drop temps overnight
  • Health and recovery tips for long cold sessions

Surf Guides for Folly Beach

Conditions

Dawn Patrol
Best early morning sessions
Sunset Sessions
Evening golden hour spots
Tide Windows
Optimal tidal conditions
Water Temperature
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Style

Beginner Spots
Gentle waves for learning
Longboard Spots
Mellow waves for logging
Less Crowded
Quieter lineups & backups

Frequently Asked Questions

About surfing in Folly Beach

Water temperatures in Folly Beach typically range from 52-82°F. For summer, boardshorts or spring suit is recommended. In winter, you'll want 4/3mm. Spring and fall may require adjusting based on your cold tolerance.
Water temperatures in Folly Beach vary by season, ranging from 52-82°F. Check Quiver's live water temperature data for real-time readings at specific surf spots. Temperatures are typically warmest around August and coldest in January.
Yes! During June-September, water temperatures in Folly Beach are warm enough to surf in boardshorts. Outside that window, boardshorts or spring suit is a good baseline for comfortable sessions.

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