Surf: General: The south side is usually better, but the north side has blown its share of minds, as well. Though the break can change overnight from a closed-out, wishy-washy mushburger to a sand-sucking Studio 54 of barrels, it is remarkable in its overall consistency -- consistently rideable and consistently packed. Tides: All tides depending on the sand. Size: Head high-overhead+ Wind: Southwest Swell: SE, NE Bottom: Sand Paddling: Normally not bad but the right south swell will make it tough to stay next to the pier. Spot Rating: The fabled north side of the pier has fallen off in recent times but the south side is still fairly consistent. Access: Sometimes the pier owners flex their authoritative muscle over the pier lot. Don't park in the Avalon homeowners lot (dirt one to the south) or they'll tow, especially in the summer. Crowds: Crowd Factor: Probably the most crowded spot on the Northern Outer Banks when it is working. Local Vibe: Can be heavy but tell 'em you know Barry and you'll be fine. Environment: Pier trash and leaky septics. Hazards: Heckling from the parking lot or the Stonefish Bar. Season: Storm dependent: tropical cyclones in the late summer and fall with frontal activity and nor'easters in the late fall and winter.