Water temperature in Isle of Palms

Isle of Palms, South Carolina

Water temperatures refreshed hourly from NOAA buoys and forecast models.

Isle of Palms 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 Isle of Palms · Updated hourly

Beach Water Temperatures

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

Isle of Palms

64°F

3/2mm fullsuit

Surf spots in Isle of Palms

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Featured Beaches(1)

Isle of Palms

Intermediate

Isle of Palms (IOP) is a mellow beach break just north of Charleston. It picks up less north swell than Folly due to its slightly southerly orientation but still provides consistent waves for beginners and lower‑intermediate surfers. During late summer and early fall, tropical storm swells provide punchier surf and more push.

Spot guide for Isle of Palms

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

Isle of Palms
beach
lower-intermediate

Isle of Palms (IOP) is a mellow beach break just north of Charleston. It picks up less north swell than Folly due to its slightly southerly orientation but still provides consistent waves for beginners and lower‑intermediate surfers. During late summer and early fall, tropical storm swells provide punchier surf and more push.

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 Isle of Palms

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 Isle of Palms

Water temperatures in Isle of Palms 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 Isle of Palms 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 Isle of Palms 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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