A riptide or rip current is a specific kind of water current that occurs near breaking waves, also known as surf. A "rip" is a powerful, localized current that moves directly away from the beach. Imagine a sub-surface river cutting through the breaking waves. This strong natural hazard is something that all beachgoers should be aware of and be sure to follow any posted signs, warnings, or directions from local lifeguards.
Wrightville, Kure & Carolina Beach Rip Tides
The local rip current forecast is changing constantly and impacted by a variety of factors including seasonality, storm events, temperature, and much more. We want your vacation to go off without a hitch, so we ask that you please abide by these important precautions and flag warnings.
See Local Rip Tide Forecast