The world renown coastal beauty of the Outer Banks of North Carolina brings visitors from every corner of the globe. Miles of pristine beaches offer plenty of outdoor space for folks to relax and
Photo by Dani Vázquez
enjoy all the amenities the area has to offer including freshly caught seafood, world class sunsets and some of the best surfing any amateur or professional surfer can hope to find.
Yes, for many years now surfing on the Outer Banks has been the number one reason many people choose to vacation and live here. The Outer Banks is a part of a barrier island system stretching Cape Hatteras in the south to Corolla in the north. The islands are geographically situated directly in the path of some of the best waves on the east coast. With almost 200 miles of diverse shoreline, you are almost guaranteed to find conditions that are ideal for you.
Whether you are a beginner or a pro or even just wanting to learn to surf, the Outer Banks has what you are looking for.
Conditions are always changing but thanks to a dedicated network of surfing enthusiasts. You can discover the best location for your skill level from your phone or computer. OBX Surf Info has up-to-date reports on conditions all up and down the Outer Banks, live web cams that show you exactly what is going on in a variety of popular surfing locations. The Sea Ranch Resort has a webcam as well so you can see the waves before you decide to go out. If you just want to head out and try your luck starting in front of the Sea Ranch Hotel going north towards the Avalon Pier. On the south side of Sea Ranch Resort Hotel, Jennette’s Pier in Nags Head, Rodanthe Pier, Avon Pier and Frisco Pier typically offer choice wave action.
For those with a flexible schedule and a bit more adventure, there is no better surfing conditions than those offered in the run up to and the aftermath of a hurricane. Usually within a week a hurricane can bring with it heavy coastal rain, torrential winds and not surprisingly, very good surf. Most of the storm is usually gone within a 24 hour period. Surfers can enjoy the waves nature has left behind from the storm. Rodanthe and Cape Hatteras are particularly good surfing spots after a storm. Storms passing well off the coast are ideal and create a surfer paradise you don’t want to miss.
The Eastern Surfing Association (ESA) Outer Banks District hosts surfing contests starting in the spring and into November. The first contest this spring is May 16 at the Eckner Street beach access in Kitty Hawk. The entry fee is $20 for 1st Division and $5 for additional Division. Current ESA membership is required to enter. Check out our specials page for discounts during surf competitions.