Fripp Island is located just south of Hunting Island and offers a relaxed surf vibe. This beachbreak spot caters to various swells and provides plenty of opportunities to catch some waves. The prime location is right in front of the main clubhouse, where you’ll likely find the best conditions. Getting there is straightforward; just take a scenic drive on Highway 21 from Beaufort.
The surf at Fripp Island generally handles swell sizes from around 3 feet (about 1 meter) to 6 feet (approximately 2 meters). You can expect waves coming from the east to southeast directions, breaking over sandy bottoms. The wave types are mostly beach breaks, allowing for both left and right rides. Mid to high tides are preferable, especially with winds coming from the west-northwest to north-northwest. This spot is suitable for surfers of all skill levels, from beginners to experts, and works well for various boards like shortboards, funboards, longboards, fish, and even SUPs.
Though the waves can be decent most days, it's worth noting that strong northeast and southwest winds can create challenging currents. On calmer days, you can expect scattered peaks, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a good surf session without worrying too much about crowds, which usually aren’t an issue here. The local vibe is pretty chill, and while the area is generally clean, you might encounter some miscellaneous sea creatures while out in the water. The best seasons for surfing here are late summer, early fall, and early spring.