The Washout
The Washout earned its name from a section of road that eroded away years ago—and earned its reputation from the quality sandbars that formed in its wake. This local favorite sits at the east end of Folly Beach, away from the pier crowds, where dedicated Charleston surfers gather for dawn patrols and post-work sessions. The wave itself is typical East Coast beach break, but the tight-knit community and consistent sandbars make it feel like something more. Free parking and a less touristy vibe cement The Washout as the locals' choice on Folly.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SE (130°)
- Direction range
- 90° - 170°
- Size range
- 0.6m - 2.5m
- Ideal size
- 1.9m
- Height multiplier
- 1.00×
- Ideal period
- 12s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NW (315°)
- Offshore range
- 280° - 350°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
- Optimal range
- 0.4m - 1.5m
Water temp
21°C
Wetsuit
Springsuit / 2mm
Difficulty
4/10
Crowd level
8/10
👥 Summer Break (Jun 15 – Aug 25) — expect extra crowds
Access: Free parking at end of East Ashley.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at The Washout?
The Washout works best on a mid tide, ideally between 0.4m and 1.5m on the local tide chart. The tide chart above shows today’s strike window.
What wind direction is offshore at The Washout?
Offshore wind at The Washout blows from the NW (315°). Anything in the 280° to 350° range grooms the faces; outside it, expect chop or bumpy conditions.
What swell size and direction work best at The Washout?
The Washout wants SE swell (90° to 170°) between 0.6m and 2.5m, with a period of 12s or more for quality waves.
When is the best time of year to surf The Washout?
The main season at The Washout is Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar. A secondary window runs Aug. Hurricane season best. Named for eroded section.
How do I get to The Washout?
Fly into CHS, then allow about 30 minutes by road. Free parking at end of East Ashley.
What kind of wave is The Washout?
The Washout is a beach break, a peak with lefts and rights. Difficulty is rated 4/10.
Best Season
Peak: Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Secondary: Aug
Hurricane season best. Named for eroded section.