Atlantic Beach, NC Tide Chart: Planning Your Beach Day
Atlantic Beach, NC is a beautiful coastal town known for its pristine beaches and relaxed atmosphere. To make the most of your beach day, it's essential to understand the tides. The tides influence everything from swimming and surfing conditions to the best spots for shelling and exploring tide pools.
Understanding Tide Charts
A tide chart displays the predicted high and low tides for a specific location over a certain period. It's crucial to remember that these are predictions, and actual tides may vary slightly.
Key Terms:
- High Tide: The highest point the water reaches during a tidal cycle.
- Low Tide: The lowest point the water reaches during a tidal cycle.
- Mean High Water (MHW): The average height of high tide.
- Mean Low Water (MLW): The average height of low tide.
Using the Tide Chart:
- Swimming and Surfing: High tide generally provides calmer water and larger waves for surfing. Low tide can expose sandbars and create areas for wading and exploring tide pools.
- Shelling: Low tide reveals more of the ocean floor, exposing shells and other beach treasures.
- Fishing: The tide can significantly impact fishing conditions. Check the chart to see when the water is higher or lower, which can attract different types of fish.
Finding an Atlantic Beach Tide Chart:
You can find an Atlantic Beach tide chart online, on mobile apps, or even at local businesses. Some popular online resources include:
- NOAA Tides and Currents: https://tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov
- Local Weather Websites: Websites like AccuWeather and The Weather Channel often provide tide information for specific locations.
- Surf Report Websites: Websites dedicated to surfing will often include tide information.
Tips for Planning:
- Check the tide chart before your trip: Plan your activities around the tides for optimal enjoyment.
- Be aware of currents: Even during low tide, there can be strong currents. Always swim with a buddy and be aware of your surroundings.
- Respect the ocean: The ocean is a powerful force. Always follow safety guidelines and be mindful of changing conditions.
By understanding and using tide charts, you can plan the perfect beach day in Atlantic Beach, NC, making the most of the ocean's beauty and natural wonders.
