Surf: General: 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"? Tides: Low to mid tide Size: Head high-overhead+ Wind: Southwest or West Swell: S, SE, E Bottom: Sand Paddling: Depends on the surf and swell direction -- can be a lot of work. Spot Rating: The right combination of swell, wind and sand can produce great waves, just takes a commitment to get there. Access: Boat or ferry. Crowds: Crowd Factor: Plenty of room to spread out. Local Vibe: Mellow. Environment: No concerns. Hazards: Access is tough. Season: Storm dependent: tropical cyclones in the late summer and fall with frontal activity from late fall through winter into spring.