Overview
Hunting Island is one long beachbreak in Hunting Island State Park, with sand-bottom peaks that can go left and right. It is a pristine but eroding beach, with the ocean reaching into the sub-tropical forest at high tide. The stretch in front of the lighthouse is generally best.
When It Works
The beach is exposed to swells from all directions, with northeast to southeast swell in the main window. It is usable from 0.6 m / 2 ft to 1.8 m / 6 ft. Late summer, early fall, and early spring are the noted seasons, with autumn also standing out.
Either side of high tide, walled-up peaks can appear, with occasional barrels when it’s offshore. The north end can get juicier on northeast windswell.
Wind and Tide
The offshore wind is west. Northwest wind is also noted as favorable.
A rising tide is better, and high tide is best. Mid to high tide is the useful window here, helped by the bigger tidal changes this far south.
Local Tips
This is a quiet spot with a lineup that can feel reserved. It suits a wide range of surfers, from beginners to experts, and works with shortboards, funboards, longboards, fish, and SUPs.
Watch for strong currents at either end of the island, especially with hard northeast or southwest winds. There can also be underwater tree stumps, the odd floating palm tree, and miscellaneous sea creatures.
Access
Hunting Island and Fripp are reached from Beaufort via Highway 21. You can surf anywhere along the beach.
There is a car park with paid parking, plus restrooms, showers, camping, and a surf shop. The state park has full facilities, including a good campsite.
