Overview
Masonboro Inlet can be one of the best waves on the East Coast when it's firing. It sits off an isolated, uninhabited island between Wrightsville Beach and Carolina Beach, breaking over sand where deeper water off the inlet and a long jetty shape the peaks. Expect longer, walled-up lefts alongside short, hollow rights.
When It Works
The bank draws swell from anywhere between south and north (S-N), but northeast (NE) is the standout direction. A northeast swell is what brings the wave to life, lining up those longer lefts and the hollow rights. It works from 0.6 m / 2 ft to 3.7 m / 12 ft.
Wind and Tide
Look for northwest (NW) offshore wind to groom it. The wave breaks on low and mid tide, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
Expect a busy lineup of committed locals whenever it's working. Many of them arrive by boat, since paddling across the fast-flowing, busy inlet is a long and tiring effort.
Access
There's a car park with a mix of free, paid, and metered parking, and it's free in winter only.
