Surf's up, beach lovers! Get ready for a sunny paradise along West Central and Southwest Florida's coastline. The waves are whispering calm today with surf heights barely reaching 1 to 2 feet - perfect for beginners and those wanting smooth sailing.

Water temperatures are luxuriously warm, hovering in the upper 70s to low 80s, inviting swimmers and water enthusiasts to dive right in. The UV index is blazing extreme, so grab that sunscreen and protect your skin while soaking up those gorgeous rays.

Wind conditions are steady and mild, blowing southeast at 10 to 15 miles per hour, which means comfortable beach conditions from Cedar Key down to Fort Myers Beach. Expect mostly sunny skies with temperatures climbing into the upper 70s and mid 80s.

Rip current risks are playing it cool today. The western coastal zones are sitting at a low risk, while areas around Charlotte and Lee counties are showing a moderate risk. Experienced beach-goers know to stay alert near groins, jetties, and piers where sneaky currents can surprise even seasoned swimmers.

Tide lovers, mark your calendars! We've got some sweet tidal schedules today. Saint Petersburg will see a high tide at 5:22 PM, while Fort Myers Beach catches its high tide at 4:12 PM. Cedar Key residents can catch their tidal dance at 7:03 AM and 5:35 PM.

Whether you're a surfer, sunbather, or just looking to enjoy some coastal magic, today's forecast promises a picture-perfect beach day. Stay safe, stay cool, and soak up that Florida sunshine!