You are here

When’s the Best Time to Hit the Beach? 

Planning a surf session? Checking the webcams first can help you catch the best waves. Whether you're looking for tide pools, hoping to reel in a big one, or filling your bucket with shells, knowing the tides and ocean temperatures can make all the difference. High tide, low tide, or chilly dip—these conditions affect how (and when) you enjoy the shore. And remember: low tide can increase the risk of rip currents, so always use caution.

Curious about the sound waters—like the Currituck, Albemarle, or Roanoke Sounds? These aren't tidal like the ocean. Their levels shift with wind and weather patterns, not moon phases, so the rise and fall is less predictable.