Catch the wave of perfect beach weather, surf lovers! West Central and Southwest Florida are serving up some seriously sweet conditions today.

The sun is cranking up the heat with an extreme UV index, so grab that sunscreen and those shades. We're looking at gorgeous sunny skies across the coastline from Cedar Key to Fort Myers Beach with temperatures climbing into the upper 80s. Water temperatures are sitting pretty in the lower 80s - practically bathwater perfect.

Surf conditions are as smooth as glass with waves barely reaching a foot. Rip current risk is low, but beach veterans know to stay alert near jetties and piers. Wind will be playing nice, starting easterly and shifting to a gentle southwest breeze around 5 to 10 miles per hour.

Tidal timing is dialed in for beach enthusiasts. Cedar Key sees its low tide at 9:56 AM and high tide rolling in at 3:25 PM. Over in Saint Petersburg, expect a high tide at 3:08 PM. Fort Myers Beach beachgoers can catch their high tide at 1:58 PM.

Tonight promises mostly clear skies with temperatures dropping to a comfortable mid 70s. Perfect for an evening beach stroll or sunset cocktail. Winds will remain light and variable, keeping things tranquil.

Friday looks like a carbon copy of today - sunny, warm, and absolutely stunning. Beach lovers and water warriors rejoice - Mother Nature is serving up prime coastal conditions across West Central and Southwest Florida!

Stay safe, stay sunkissed, and enjoy every moment of this epic beach forecast!