Surf: General: These are exclusive residential/resort beaches to the south of Charleston. Kiawah can get good surf on strong S swells, particularly at Sandy Point on the north end of the island. The south end of the island, particularly Seabrook, can occasionally be blocked from southeasterly swells by offshore sandbars, from outflow from the North Edisto River and from northeast swells by Sandy Point. For public beach access, head towards the Fresh Fields shopping center and the Beachwalker County Park. Tides: Mid to high Size: Waist-overhead high Wind: N, NW Swell: S, SE 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. Sandy Point on the North end can produce long lefts when the sand is right and there is a large S/SE swell running. Also protected from NE winds, but expect it to be considerably smaller than Folly on the same swell. Access: Private developments with little access. Surf anywhere if you're staying here, though. You can get onto Kiawahs' beach at Beachwalker County Park. Otherwise you must boat to Sandy Point. Crowds: Crowd Factor: Light. Local Vibe: Not much, tourists mostly. Environment: Some runoff pollution after heavy rains. Hazards: Miscellaneous sea creatures. Season: Late summer, early fall, early spring.