Holden Beach has two high tides and two low tides almost every day, about 6 hours apart, and they shift a little later each day. Checking the tides is the easiest way to plan the perfect beach day:

• Low tide brings the widest beach, so it’s the best time for shell hunting, long walks and building sandcastles.
• High tide brings the water closer to the dunes, so set up your chairs a little farther back.
• Fishing? The hours around a tide change are a local favorite for surf fishing.

Be extra careful near the Lockwood Folly and Shallotte inlets, where currents get strong as the tide moves in and out.

👉 Check today’s Holden Beach tides

⚠️ Stay safe in the water: There are no lifeguards on Holden Beach. Currents near the Lockwood Folly and Shallotte inlets get strong as the tide moves in and out, and rip currents can happen anywhere along the beach. If you’re caught in one, swim parallel to the shore until you’re free, then swim back in.⚠️

For more water safety tips, please visit our Safety page here.