The Pier is a well-known surf spot located in Pawleys Island, South Carolina. It's a beachbreak that can serve up some fun waves, but it's not exactly a world-class destination. While the area is generally surf-friendly, it can sometimes feel a bit wave-starved and offers mainly low-quality surf. When everything lines up just right with the swell and winds, surfers can get a decent session, especially during the late summer and fall months.
This place works best with mid to high tides and is known to handle swell sizes ranging from 3 to 6 feet (about 1 to 1.8 meters). The most favorable swells come from the southeast and south, with playful beach and pier breaks that can peel left and right. The waves can vary from crumbly to dumping, but they rarely reach epic heights. If the wind is out of the west or northwest, it tends to improve the conditions. Keep in mind that the best surf can occur when the waves are a bit overhead, but the spot usually shuts down after that. Most action happens on the south side of The Pier.
Access is pretty easy, with lots of public spots to get in and out, but it can get crowded during the summer, so be prepared for some company in the water. The vibe can be a bit rude if you don’t play nice, but generally, it’s a chill place for surfers of all abilities, from beginners to experts. Just keep an eye out for the sand sharks and bluefish that hang around. Overall, The Pier isn’t going to blow your mind, but if you catch it on a good day, it can be a fun place to ride some waves.