North Carolina’s coastline is where you’ll find some of the best waves on the East Coast, making it a haven for surfing enthusiasts. If you’re a soul who feels the pull of the surf, then this string of surf towns in North Carolina is where you can go to not only ride waves but feel the beat of a town where surfing is a part of the heart and soul of the community.
From the renowned shores of the Outer Banks, where numerous acclaimed surfing events and competitions are held, to the shores of Wrightsville Beach, these towns will feel like a love letter written in foam and tide. So, grab your board, wax up, and let’s dive in!
NOTE: Be sure to check the swell times before you head out surfing anywhere. Tides are continuously changing, and there’s no guarantee of good waves at the time you visit. And while most other people are freaking out about hurricane season, surfers are eagerly awaiting the danger period to be over so they can wax up and ride the higher swells.
Atlantic Beach
- Distance from Raleigh: 151 miles
- Drive time: 2 hours 40 minutes
If you’re looking for a beach town that offers more than just surfing, then you should cast your eyes towards North Carolina’s Crystal Coast – an 85-mile stretch of coast known for its protected, powdery sand beaches and sand bars that create excellent waves for surfing. One of our favorite surf towns in this region is Atlantic Beach, which has warm water, steady swells, and a town with a low-key vibe.
The waves here are usually more gentle since they are protected by Onslow Bay, so it’s the ideal destination for beginner surfers or those who are building up their confidence.
The best surfing spots are near the Oceanana Fishing Pier and Iron Steamer Public Beach Access, which have stronger break conditions. There are larger waves the further South you go from the main town.
Beyond the surf, Atlantic Beach has a chilled atmosphere and is the gateway to the historic Fort Macon State Park, where you can tour a restored Civil War fort and walk around the nature preserve. Stroll the Atlantic Beach Boardwalk and explore the boutique shopping in the main town, or rent a kayak or paddleboard and cruise through Bogue Sound’s marshes.
Emerald Isle
- Distance from Raleigh: 145 miles
- Drive times: 2 hours 30 minutes
Emerald Isle is just a 30-minute drive Southeast from Atlantic Beach, so it’s quite possible to visit both destinations in one trip. However, Emerald Isle is less protected by the bay, and so it has larger waves than Atlantic Beach, and would be a better option for seasoned surfers.
Surf schools and rental shops are scattered around the town, and there’s a real laid-back vibe from the community here. Bogue Inlet Pier and The Point, at the far tip of the island, are the most popular spots for surfers, with Bogue Inlet Pier being the “home break” spot.
Aside from surfing, Emerald Isle has lots to do. From strolling around Hammocks Beach State Park to combing for shark teeth on Emerald Isle Beach to gazing at marine animals in the North Carolina Aquarium, you’ll find it an ideal destination for a surfing trip. The Eastern Surfing Association also often has surfing events around Bogue Pier, especially around May/June.
In between the waves, you may want to check out these things to do in the Crystal Coast, which is where you’ll find Emerald Isle and Atlantic Beach!
Wrightsville Beach
- Distance from Raleigh: 131 miles
- Drive times: 2 hours
Those who follow us regularly will know we’re big fans of Wrightsville Beach and reminds us of our home in Australia It’s an iconic surf town that you must visit if you are hugely into surfing. Not just because of the waves, but because it’s a “Pioneer in East Coast Surfing” after North Carolina’s first boarders rode waves from the ocean by Waynick Boulevard across from Bridgers St. back in 1909 – founding NC as a destination to catch waves!
This sun‑kissed barrier island offers smooth, sand‑bottom beach breaks. The best surf spots are typically towards the South, with some of the most popular spots for beginner surfers being opposite Shell Island Resort and Lumina on Wrightsville Beach.
The waves are better for intermediate riders around Crystal Pier, under the right conditions. For more adventurous waves, head to C-Street (Columbia Street) or the Masonboro Inlet Jetty.
The surf scene here is tight-knit, but also welcoming. The town is full of surf camps and surf schools offering lessons, and a dozen surf shops clustered along the Causeway.
I returned this week from a three day trip to Wilmington and spent every sunrise on the beach watching the surfers. Waves were small, yet clean. Morning is the best time to surf as by afternoon the winds pick up and chop up the waves. But, be prepared for surfing crowds.
You’re also a stone’s throw from Wilmington for when you want to escape the sand and soak up some history and culture. Read more: A day trip to Wrightsville Beach from Raleigh.
Masonboro Island
- Distance from Raleigh: 131 miles
- Drive times: 2 hours… then boat or swim
Avid surfers with time on their hands will be happy to make the extra effort to get to Masonboro Island, the next island south of Wrightsville. And by extra effort, I mean paddle across the channel that separates the two on your board, or get a boat to the island (there . There are no roads to this isolated surfing haven.
This protected island is a surfer’s dream with tranquil natural beauty,uncrowded line-ups, and consistent surf offering up punchy beach breaks. I’d class this more for your intermediate and advanced surfers.
We visited on a day not long after a hurricane, and the surf was huge – the biggest I’ve ever seen in North Carolina. Before seeing this, I thought waves in North Carolina was a made-up story! Oh, and it might be a little bit of a secret spot so don’t tell too many people.
There is no state-supported ferry system that provides access to Masonboro Island, you’ll need to find a private boat to get you over. There are also no restrooms or facilities on the island. We visited during our stay at Blockade Runner (now Trailborn Surf & Sound) which offered a ferry service for a free.
Carolina Beach
- Distance from Raleigh: 141 miles
- Drive times: 2 hours 15 minutes
Just south of Wilmington, and only a 30-minute drive from the aforementioned Wrightsville Beach, is Carolina Beach, a classic surf town that blends an energetic beach culture with laid-back vibes. A favorite spot for surfers along the Cape Fear Coastline is at Carolina Beach Fishing Pier, which regularly has a nice swell.
In the summer months, the waves tend to be small here, perfect for beginners looking to learn. Tony Silvagni Surf School offers lessons in Carolina Beach, and Odysea Surf School also offers private lessons.
Carolina Beach also has a bit of a longboard community too. The Carolina Beach Longboard Club Surf Contest takes place every spring, cementing Carolina Beach as a hot spot for surfing and longboarding. While in Carolina Beach, be sure to check out the hiking trails of Carolina Beach State Park or go four-wheel driving in Freeman Park. Read more: 13 Essential Things to Do in Carolina Beach
Surf City
- Distance from Raleigh: 133 miles
- Drive times: 2 hours
The aptly named Surf City on Topsail Island truly lives up to its name. Boasting reasonably consistent surfable waves, and since it’s unprotected ocean, the surf breaks tend to be bigger here, attracting seasoned riders chasing larger swells after tropical storms.
The best spot is near the 937‑ft Surf City Pier, where you will find more beginner-friendly waves of around 1-2 feet and warm water year-round. The surf scene here is bolstered by the locally run Surf City Surf School, offering everything from group lessons to private coaching and gear rentals.
Off the board, the town has a chilled vibe and a few quaint nature sites to explore. Walk around Soundside Park’s boardwalks, or kayak around marshes and hidden coves near Figure Eight Island. If you love wildlife, be sure to say hello to the rescued sea turtles at the Karen Beasley Center, one of NC’s only rehabilitation facilities.
Nags Head
- Distance from Raleigh: 196 miles
- Drive times: 3 hours
Now, for those serious surfers, you’ll want to cast your eyes to the Northern coastline of NC. The Outer Banks, particularly around the buzzing town of Nags Head, boasts some of the best surf in the state. This is a quintessential surf destination, known for its varied surf breaks, stunning natural beauty, and laid-back coastal vibe. It’s also home to iconic surfing competitions, such as the premier World Surf League (WSL) contests and the WRV Pro Surf Contest.
The best spot for surfers is near Jennette’s Pier (north side), which is where the surfing contests take place, as well as Nags Head Pier and Outer Banks Fishing Pier. Beyond surfing, there’s plenty to do around the town, such as visit the iconic Wright Brothers National Memorial or learn to hang glide from the dunes of Jockey’s Ridge State Park.
Corolla
- Distance from Raleigh: 228 miles
- Drive times: 4 hours
An hour’s drive north of Nags Head is the wild and rugged shores of Corolla, known for its wild horses, untamed and unspoiled natural beauty, and serene surf vibes. It’s far from the crowded beaches further south and offers consistent beach breaks.
The main beach of Corolla, as well as Carova, has decent waves, but Carova tends to have more adventurous waves. After a surf session, you can take a guided tour to see the famous Corolla wild horses, visit the Currituck Beach Lighthouse, or wander around the Currituck National Wildlife Refuge.
Buxton
- Distance from Raleigh: 240 miles
- Drive times: 4 hours
Hatteras Island is another hot spot for surfing. Because of where it’s positioned on the Gulf Stream, it regularly has strong currents and swells – it’s a real wave magnet.
The village of Buxton is the best place to stay on the island for surfing, as the water here has underwater sandbars that create epic waves. The best spot for surfing is around Cape Point, which is on the western tip of the island and benefits from both East and South-facing waves.
Anywhere along the Cape Hatteras National Seashore has excellent surf thanks to the mix of offshore winds and strong swells. Besides world-class surfing, Buxton is a quiet and sleepy place. You will find little to do besides surfing. You can climb the iconic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, but aside from that, this is a place where it’s just you and the waves.
Rodanthe
- Distance from Raleigh: 216 miles
- Drive times: 3 hours 30 minutes
Just north of Buxton on Hatteras Island is Rodanthe, an up-and-coming surf town that has challenging waves and a laid-back atmosphere. It’s become known within the surfing community for being close to Irene’s Inlet, which was formed in 2011 when Hurricane Irene hit the northern portion of Hatteras Island, creating excellent south-facing surf.
Another popular spot to surf here is around Rodanthe Pier, which has regular waves, and around the S-Curves (a section of highway that’s shaped like an S, just north of the town). Like Buxton, Rodanthe doesn’t have much in the way of attractions. While there, be sure to visit Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge, which coincidentally also has some great surf spots!
Ocracoke Island
- Distance from Raleigh: 197 miles
- Drive times: 5 hours
Another charming island in the Outer Banks is Ocracoke, a surf gem that has decent waves after a hurricane or Nor’easter. It also has a lifeguarded beach near the village, which is popular for surfers, perfect for nervous surfers or beginners.
The island is also remote and isolated, with very little to do here besides hit the beaches and surf, so if you are looking for surfing and surfing only, this is the place to go. Ocracoke is also famous for its local seafood, especially the fresh oysters and clams.
Don’t miss these things to do in Ocracoke while there!
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