Brian’s Beach, Boating and Boarding Forecast: July 18-20

Posted: Jul 17, 2025 / 06:41 PM EDT

Updated: Jul 18, 2025 / 02:25 AM EDT

(WAVY) — Are you looking to get out on the water this weekend? The Beach, Boating, and Boarding Forecast is your one stop shop for everything you need to know to enjoy the Hampton Roads waterways.

Beach

Our forecast is looking a bit dicey this weekend to be out on the beach and in the water. Showers and thunderstorms may be numerous Friday and Saturday as a stalled front sets up across Hampton Roads. Heavy rain and some strong thunderstorms with frequent lightning will be possible so if you are trying to get outside, aim for the morning hours for the most sunshine and dry weather. On Sunday, we are looking at much drier weather but remain vigilante as there still remains an isolated afternoon storm chance.

For those looking to spend some time at the beach this weekend try to target the morning hours as conditions should stay dry with a good amount of sunshine. The storms for the next few afternoons will likely start around around 2 to 4 p.m. and become more numerous heading into the evening. Frequent lightning will make for dangerous beach conditions, so stay weather aware.

The green flags will likely be flying across Virginia and Outer Banks beaches this weekend as a lack in storm activity offshore is allowing for small surf and a low rip current risk. When packing your beach bag be sure to include sunscreen and an umbrella as the UV index will be very high. Burn times may be as quick as 15-20 minutes.

Boating

What about the boating conditions? Just like with the beach conditions, try to plan your boat trips during the morning hours and keep your eyes peeled to the sky as storms develop over land during the afternoon. Storms starting over land for the next few days will likely drift towards the bay and ocean through the afternoon. Otherwise, conditions are looking smooth with a steady breeze each day.

Boarding

Alright surfers! It’s your turn!

It has been a flat summer so far up and down the east coast, and unfortunately, it looks like we will continue with this trend for the weekend. Wave heights will generally be around one feet, so if you are trying to catch some waves, try to target a lower tide with your longboard or foam board. Volume will be your friend this weekend to help get into waves.