Avalon Pier surf guide

Avalon Pier is a surf spot located on the Northern Outer Banks, known for its accessibility and potential for decent waves. The area can get pretty crowded, especially when the surf is firing, so be prepared to share the space with other surfers. While the south side generally offers better conditions, the north side has had its moments too. It's a place where conditions can shift quickly, leading to varying experiences from one session to the next.

The surf here handles swell sizes from around 1.2 meters to 2.4 meters (4ft to 8ft) and can be quite fickle depending on the swell direction. It's solid for swells coming from the NorthNorthEast, NorthEast, EastNorthEast, East, EastSouthEast, and SouthEast. You'll find both right and left waves breaking over a sandy bottom, which is pretty forgiving in terms of paddling. Depending on the tide—ranging from low to high—the waves can vary significantly. The best conditions usually arise with a southwest wind, making for fun rides for all skill levels, from beginners to experts.

Access to Avalon Pier can be tricky due to parking rules, especially in summer when lot authorities are more vigilant. Make sure not to park in the Avalon homeowners lot, or you might end up towed. If you're planning to surf here during peak seasons like autumn or when tropical storms are about, expect a lively local vibe, which can be heavy, yet if you connect with the locals, like dropping a name like Barry, you might get along just fine.