Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

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Cape Hatteras Lighthouse surfspot characteristics

Swell Window
NNE | NE | ENE | E | ESE | SE | SSE | S
Optimal Swell Direction
Swell Size
6ft - 8ft
Breaks over
Sand | Rock
Wave type
beach | jetty
Wave direction
left | right
Optimal Wind Direction
W | WNW | NW | NNW
Best Tides at
low | lowToMid | mid

More about Cape Hatteras Lighthouse surfspot

General: There are three groins here -- southernmost is the First and the northernmost is the Third. On a solid south or southeast swell, the Third can produce some heavy sweeping rights, while between the groins, several peaks produce more short-lived thrills. But the First is the major draw for its consistently heavy, barreling lefts when Northeast swells march down the coast. Tides: Low to mid tide Size: Head high-double overhead Wind: NW Swell: S, SE, NE Bottom: Sand, rock and pieces of the groins. Paddling: Can be very hard to stay up on the peak during bigger northeast swells. Spot Rating: If the sand and swell are right this is the best wave on the Outer Banks, especially if you are a goofy-foot.

Main peaks at First and Third more for advanced surfers while further into the cove better for beginners.

The historical Lighthouse location offers several packed parking lots.

Storm dependent: tropical cyclones in the late summer and fall with frontal activity and nor'easters in the late fall and winter.

Crowd Factor: Can get packed when it is working. Local Vibe: A tight group live and surf here. A little humility and respect will go a long way.

Actually not that bad unless after a storm.

Submerged pieces of the old jetties.

Check surf reports near Cape Hatteras Lighthouse