Cape Lookout National Seashore Surf Guide
Surf spot guide
Ideal Surf Conditions
Swell Direction
S, SE, E
Wind
Southwest or West
Surf Height
Head high-overhead+
Tide
Low to mid tide
Cape Lookout National Seashore Surf Guide
Cape Lookout is the second part of North Carolina's Outer Banks. After running south from Ocracoke, the coastline bends sharply west to Beaufort Inlet, which is where the Banks come to their glorious end. The Cape Lookout National Seashore extends 58 miles from Portsmouth Island (the Seashore's sole village was abandoned years back and is now a ghost town) south to Cape Lookout Point. This almost entirely undeveloped area is the most isolated part of North Carolina's barrier island chain, and the National Park Service plans to keep most of the Seashore in its natural state. As far as the surfing goes, there are several opportunities to catch good waves here, provided you have a cooperative boat and an even more cooperative guide. Ever heard of the term "secret spot"?
Ability Level
All Abilities
Pretty much anyone depending on the surf.
Local Vibe
Doable
Mellow.
Crowd Factor
Mellow
Plenty of room to spread out.
Spot Rating
Fun
The right combination of swell, wind and sand can produce great waves, just takes a commitment to get there.
Shoulder Burn
Medium
Depends on the surf and swell direction -- can be a lot of work.
Water Quality
Clean
No concerns.
Hazards
Access is tough.
Bring Your
Shortboard, Fish, Funboard, Longboard, SUP, Skimming, Bodyboard, Bodysurfing, Kiteboard
Access
Boat or ferry.
Bottom
Sand
Best Season
Storm dependent: tropical cyclones in the late summer and fall with frontal activity from late fall through winter into spring.
Do you have local knowledge about Cape Lookout National Seashore?
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