Many beachgoers know the daily ebb and flow of the ocean—but a king tide is different. These are the extra-high tides that can push water into places it doesn’t usually reach, narrow the beach, and briefly flood low-lying roads and lots. On Edisto, king tides showcase the living edge where barrier island meets sea—and how that edge can shift.
What Is a King Tide?
- King tides are the highest of the high tides, occurring when the sun and moon align (during new or full moon) and the moon is near perigee (its closest point to Earth).
- This alignment amplifies gravitational pull, adding several inches (or more) to normal high tides.
- They’re predictable and typically occur 3–4 times per year.
Why Edisto Feels King Tides More
Edisto is a barrier island, naturally shaped by wind, waves, and tides. During king tides, you may notice:
- Temporary street flooding near tidal creeks and low roads
- Swales and washouts where dunes are weak or pathways funnel water
- Saltwater intrusion along marsh edges and low lawns
- Rapid shoreline reshaping, with new scallops or channels in the sand
Good to know: Even when a king tide peaks for only a couple of hours, its effects—like soft sand, pooled water, or newly cut channels—can linger until the next tide cycle.
Check the Edisto Beach Tide Charts
Planning around the tide is the easiest win. Bookmark our Edisto Beach tide charts to track upcoming highs and lows and to spot extra-high tide windows:
- Plan beach walks, shelling, fishing, and launches around lower tides
- Anticipate temporary flooding in low-lying spots
- Adjust routes and parking when higher-than-normal highs are forecast
What to Do During a King Tide
Safety First
- Don’t wade or drive through floodwater. Even shallow water can hide debris, holes, or drop-offs.
- Move vehicles early if you’re parked in a low area and water begins rising.
- Use caution on slick or submerged streets near the beach or marsh.
- Watch your footing along cut banks and channels—edges can collapse.
Respect the Shoreline & Wildlife
- Stay off dunes and vegetation. They anchor sand and reduce erosion.
- Give wildlife space. Nests and resting areas may be temporarily inundated.
- Observe, don’t intrude. If you see erosion or new channels forming, note them from a safe distance.
Be a Thoughtful Observer
- Enjoy the view from higher ground—boardwalks, decks, and safe overlooks.
- Photograph responsibly without trespassing or entering flooded areas.
- Share local insights with neighbors or community groups when helpful.
Plan Ahead
- Check tide charts and weather before outings (especially with kids or pets).
- Time your beach time for receding or low tides when possible.
- Map alternate routes if you know certain roads pond or overtop.
Looking Ahead on Edisto
King tides offer a useful preview of future high-water scenarios as sea levels rise. On Edisto—where dunes, beaches, and marshes are always in motion—staying tide-aware helps you enjoy the island safely while doing your part to protect its natural defenses.
