Surf's up, beach lovers! Get ready for a sizzling day along the North Carolina coastline. The sun is bringing the heat with temperatures climbing into the lower 90s and a very high UV index, so grab that sunscreen and those shades.

The Northern Outer Banks are looking picture-perfect with calm 1 to 2 foot waves and a gentle south breeze at 5 to 10 mph. Duck and the surrounding beaches are primed for a postcard-worthy beach day with mostly sunny skies and water temperatures in the lower 80s.

But heads up, rip current risks are changing as we move south. Hatteras Island and points beyond are seeing a moderate rip current risk south of Cape Hatteras. Surfers and swimmers should stay alert, especially near jetties and piers.

Ocracoke Island is serving up similar conditions with moderate rip current risks and waves around 2 to 3 feet. The southwest winds will be dancing at 5 to 15 mph, perfect for windsurfers and those looking to catch some ocean breezes.

Down near Cape Lookout and the Carteret County beaches, expect similar scenarios. Moderate rip current risks are in play, with waves ranging from 1 to 3 feet depending on the specific location. The Core Banks and Shackleford Banks are ready for some serious beach time.

North Topsail and Atlantic Beach are rounding out our coastal report with mostly sunny skies, moderate rip current risks, and waves building from 1 to 3 feet. A slight chance of afternoon thunderstorms might roll in Friday, so keep an eye on those skies.

Bottom line: Stunning beach day ahead with plenty of sunshine, warm waters, and just enough wave action to keep things interesting. Stay safe, stay smart, and enjoy that beautiful Carolina coastline!