Surf: This long, wide, sandy beach is more popular with tourists than surfers. A big hurricane swell at low tide is the best reason to surf here. Access: Free in winter only Environment: Low consistency and crowds. Free parking in winter; meters appear with the summer crowds. Surf: General: The surfing on Isle of Palms is mostly centered around the pier -- with the north side being the most popular peak -- and the Windjammer bar and resort to the south of the pier. Keep in mind that the locals like both these spots, but, as long as you're polite, there shouldn't be a problem. Its wide sandbars generally make this area more conducive to longboarding. Tides: Mid to high Size: Waist-overhead high Wind: W, NW Swell: S, SE, E, NE Bottom: Sand. Paddling: Hard NE and SW winds can produce strong currents, but generally pretty mellow. Spot Rating: Scattered peaks, ideal for all types surfers most days. Generally a better longboard wave though. Access: Lots of parking. Crowded with cars in summer, though. Crowds: Crowd Factor: Can be heavy by pier and Windjammer, particularly during a decent swell. Local Vibe: Not much, but be polite. Environment: Some runoff pollution after heavy rains. Hazards: Miscellaneous sea creatures in the water, and cranky fishermen on the pier. Season: Late summer, early fall, early spring.