Private Surf Charter: Chasing Swell by Boat at Wrightsville Beach
Skip the crowds and follow the swell—custom boards, small crew, and boat-only sandbars at Wrightsville Beach.
The inlet yawns open at first light, a pale seam between sky and sea, and the boat noses into it with the quiet confidence of a local. Gulls scout the channel, the tide pulls like a steady handshake, and a low set of lines marches in from the horizon—promises wrapped in glassy faces. You and a small crew—six at most—lean into the spray as the captain points toward a sandbar you’ve only ever seen from shore. Boards are racked and waxed. Coffee is cooling fast. The morning is wide and patient. This is Wrightsville Beach, where the coast breathes in long rhythms and a boat can unlock an entire map of possibilities the beach crowds will never know.
Trail Wisdom
Chase the Tide, Not the Clock
Plan your energy around the tide; the captain will adjust locations so you’re surfing peaks at their best window.
Dial Your Rubber
Bring a spring suit in shoulder seasons and a 3/2–4/3 in winter; wind on the run between spots can make air temps feel cooler.
Secure Everything
Leashes, sunglasses with retainers, and dry bags keep gear from bouncing into the drink when the inlet gets choppy.
Respect the Reserve
Masonboro Island is protected—avoid dunes, pack out all trash, and give wildlife a wide berth.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Masonboro Island south-end sandbars for long, tapering rights on a mid-tide push
- •Figure Eight Island north shoals when the wind clocks offshore and you want spread-out peaks
Wildlife
Bottlenose dolphins, Brown pelicans
Conservation Note
Masonboro Island Reserve protects sensitive dunes and nesting habitat; land only at designated spots, avoid dune vegetation, and pack out every trace.
Wrightsville Beach is a hub of East Coast surf culture, with decades of board shaping, contests, and paddle races shaping the local scene.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Shoulder-season swells, Cool, crowd-light mornings
Challenges: Variable winds, Chilly dawn runs
Spring can surprise with clean surf windows between fronts; bring a light wetsuit and be flexible with timing.
summer
Best for: Glass-off dawn patrols, Family-friendly boat days
Challenges: Smaller surf, Heat and afternoon storms
Expect warm water and mellow surf with occasional tropical pulses; start early to beat both crowds and thunderheads.
fall
Best for: Hurricane and long-period swells, Warm water and light winds
Challenges: Stronger currents, Rapidly changing forecasts
Peak season for quality surf; watch the forecast closely and be ready to pivot spots with the boat.
winter
Best for: Powerful nor’easter waves, Offshore winds and empty lineups
Challenges: Cold water and air, Short daylight
Bring thicker neoprene and enjoy crisp conditions; the boat keeps transitions warm and efficient between sessions.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Surfboard or Surf SUP (appropriate for conditions)Essential
Bring your preferred board or try a custom Ian Balding shape to match the day’s sandbar and swell period.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen & Long-Sleeve Rash GuardEssential
Strong coastal sun and reflection off the water make UPF layers and ocean-safe sunscreen critical.
Wetsuit (3/2–4/3 with Booties in Winter)Essential
Cooler months demand proper insulation so you can stay out for longer sets without getting chilled.
Dry Bag with Water & SnacksEssential
Keeps essentials dry between sessions and makes quick refuels easy on the move.
Common Questions
Do I need to be an experienced surfer to join?
You should be comfortable swimming in the ocean and catching unbroken waves; beginners can join as riders or observers, but boat-access peaks are best for intermediate and up.
Are boards provided or should I bring my own?
You can bring your own board or use custom boards by local shaper Ian Balding—ask about sizes to match conditions and your style.
What happens if conditions change during the trip?
The captain chooses spots based on wind, tide, and swell and can relocate between breaks so you’re surfing the best window possible.
Can non-surfers come along?
Yes. Non-surfers can relax on deck, swim in calm water when safe, and enjoy the scenery while surfers session nearby peaks.
Should I worry about seasickness?
Inlets can be choppy; if you’re prone to motion sickness, take non-drowsy medication 30–60 minutes before departure and focus on the horizon during runs.
Are food and drinks included?
Cold beverages are typically available on board; bring additional water and your preferred snacks or lunch for a full-day charter.
What to Pack
1) Reef-safe sunscreen and UPF shirt to protect skin from intense reflection off the water. 2) Wetsuit appropriate to season so you can stay out longer without getting chilled. 3) Dry bag with water, electrolytes, and snacks to refuel between sessions. 4) Sunglasses with a retainer strap to keep them secure during choppy inlet runs.
Did You Know
Masonboro Island Reserve, adjacent to Wrightsville Beach, is the largest undisturbed barrier island in southern North Carolina, stretching roughly 8 miles and harboring vital nesting habitat for shorebirds and sea turtles.
Quick Travel Tips
Arrive early to secure parking near the marina—summer spots fill fast. Check the marine forecast and buoy readings the night before to align expectations. Bring cash or a card for post-surf food on Wrightsville Beach. Use reef-safe sunscreen only; it protects the marine ecosystem and won’t leave slicks on your board.
Local Flavor
Post-session, refuel at Tower 7 Baja Grill on Lumina Avenue for fish tacos and salty-air vibes. If you’re heading back over the bridge, Wrightsville Beach Brewery pours coastal-inspired beers with a sustainable seafood menu and often live music.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Wilmington International (ILM), ~20 minutes by car. Departure: Wrightsville Beach marinas near the Causeway. Drive time from downtown Wilmington: ~15 minutes. Cell service: Generally good nearshore, intermittent around remote island interiors. Permits: Guests don’t need permits; follow reserve rules for Masonboro Island and local boating regulations.
Sustainability Note
Masonboro Island and surrounding estuaries are part of the NC Coastal Reserve—pack out all trash, avoid nesting areas, and never trample dune vegetation. Use reef-safe sunscreen and keep a respectful distance from dolphins and seabirds.