water temps
>>> Typically, you can get away with only very minimal warmth protection for 7-8 months of the year. Summer water temps reach as much as the high 80's near shore.

>>>Winter temps average low 50s and manykiters just wear a full 3mm wetsuit. However, certain fronts may change currents and waters have been in the mid - lower 40s on occasion. (jan-feb).

>>>Spring suits are in fashion usually by the end of April (sometimes earlier), skin no later than mid May, and back into shorties by October. The really thick rubber (4/3), booties, gloves, and hoods don't usually come out until December through February, but it varies.

surf
>>>Surfable Charleston beaches face the SouthEast.

>>>A strong onshore wind (20-25) can really kill a small swell.

>>>A strong offshore wind can kill even a large swell.

>>>Light offshore winds can really make a small swell that much better, and take a large swell from okay to epic.

>>>The biggest swells typically occur in the winter, early Spring, and Fall and may be associated with strong NorthEasterlies coming down from North Carolina, offshore hurricanes during mid summer to late Fall, or other local weather systems.

>>>Summertime can be unpredictable and surf is usually best in the morning before the afternoon sea breeze kicks in. The biggest waves usually aren't much bigger than a couple of feet overhead, but sometimes we get lucky.

>>>All breaks are sandy bottom breaks. The tides in Charleston do have a pretty dramatic affect on several spots, so it is good to know where to go and the right time.

>>>SouthWest wind usually means wind-chopped surf.

>>>NorthEast winds can kick up the stronger surf.

>>>Count on strong currents during larger swells associated with storms, especially if the wind is blowing side-shore. Beginners are encouraged to stay in the inside as the occasional rip currents can take you by surprise. There are many “perfect learning” small days.

>>>Another prediction difficulty is determining wave size in relation to local beaches, especially when you consider the impact swell direction has. For instance, a SW or S swell has better potential to be big at Folly (washout) than anywhere else. Although some may disagree, a NE typically has nicer shape and is usually as big at Isle of Palms…but that’s up for debate.