Waves and Salvo Surf Guide

Waves and Salvo Surf Guide

Heading south from the Rodanthe Pier you can drive on through to Waves. Any town with a name like this needs to be checked out. You might want to stop at the KOA campground, which was the best spot on the island for years. It attracted so many tourists one summer, locals aptly named it "Kooks of America." These beaches have the potential to house the most playful sandbars of the summertime. Sheet glass, thin-lipped magic, almost like a smokin' California beachbreak. It's happened before so if you are feeling lucky, give it a go.

Next is Salvo. Similar to other zones along the Outer Banks the sand comes and goes so you'll do right checking a few spots to see what might be working. Parking can be a bit of an issue in some of the neighborhoods so tread lightly, especially during the summer months. There is a shipwreck at the south end of town that has worked in the past if you are up to date with your latest tetanus shot.

South of Salvo there are several ramps that are pretty desolate, especially in the offseason. This is where the four-wheel drive fun begins -- as long as there are no turtle or bird closures. Mind the laws, get a permit, then let a bit of air out of your tires (drop them to about 17 lb) in case the sand is softer than expected, and go find yourself a wave. You can motor for miles, park in front of your own private peak, set up a rod, toss your pup a Frisbee, go for a surf and feel like a superhero on your private little cloud. This is the kind of Outer Banks experience that's been romanticized for years by writers, artists and storytellers. It's a very tangible dream.