Find Your Wave on the OBX...
The Outer Banks of North Carolina has long been known as one of the top spots on the east coast for surfing. The unique position of our barrier islands allows swells to make it to shore instead of breaking up in the ocean. Favorable winds and offshore storms also help create ideal surfing conditions. The Outer Banks boasts several pro surfers and surf competitions. Experienced surfers can find a challenge, and the rest of us can take a surf lesson!
On the Outer Banks, the surfing crowd is quite diverse. You'll find cool grandads who've been surfing since they were teens, professionals who quickly change from suits to wetsuits, kids who can rip better than you'll ever dream of, and novices experiencing the thrill of catching their first waves.
You'll see Outer Banks surfers in the water 4 seasons a year. Yes, even in winter! Good waves can happen during any season, but fall traditionally brings the most desirable swells. During peak summer and early fall, wetsuits are hardly ever needed - the water is usually in the mid-70s.
Outer Banks Surf Spots
One of the great things about Outer Banks surfing is that there'sover 100 miles of coastline - you can join the lineup at a popular break, or you can head on down the beach to find a secluded spot. Each year, coastal storms change sandbar patterns, which in turn creates new breaks. There are well-known Outer Banks surfing spots such as "S-Turns" near Rodanthe, or Avalon Pier in Kill Devil Hills. The good news is that you can have a great session anywhere along the Outer Banks! Head north to Carova in your 4-wheel drive to surf and play on the beautiful beaches all day. Go to Corolla or Duck and you'll find vacationers enjoying the waves. The Central Beaches of Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, and Nags Head offer easy parking and several great surfing spots. Hatteras Island is known as the pinnacle of Outer Banks surfing - this is where you'll find the best breaks and biggest waves. But don't worry, beginners can easily find more mellow spots along the Cape Hatteras National Seashore.
Check out our list of Outer Banks surf shops to find one near your rental home!
Never surfed before?
There are numerous local professionals who can safely introduce you to the sport. Lessons are available for both kids and adults.
Outer Banks Surfing Lessons
Outer Banks Surf School
118 E Becker Street, Nags Head, NC 27959
(252) 599-2006 or (252) 573-8437
Outer Surf
2500 South Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC 27959
(252) 715-1445
Kitty Hawk Kayak & Surf School
6150 North Croatan Highway, Kitty Hawk, NC 27949
(252) 261-0145
Kitty Hawk Surf Company
Locations in Corolla, Duck, Nags Head, & Rodanthe
1-877-359-8447