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You should always use caution before entering the ocean. Stay alert for red warning flags. If the red flags are flying, it means swimming is prohibited. Although flags may be posted when the weather seems fine, it means that the water conditions are not safe to swim in. Strong rip currents can make swimming dangerous; please read and follow the safety instructions at lifeguard locations.

Helpful tips for ocean goers:

  • Never swim alone!
  • Check the ocean forecast.
  • Watch Channel 16 for weather and ocean conditions.
  • Be aware that even on low risk days rip currents can still exist.
  • Swim in front of a lifeguard.
  • Don't swim out too far.
  • Bring your cell phone and know your exact location at the beach.
  • In an emergency, to get the fastest response, a phone and address can save lives.
  • Also have someone on shore watching you.
  • Educate yourself and your family on rip currents.

Rip Currents

Your Outer Banks vacation should be a great experience where you return year after year to make the memories. To do that, it's important to educate yourself on rip currents BEFORE you hit the beach. Rip currents are fast-moving currents of water that can pull even the strongest swimmer away from the shore. In fact, some rip currents have been measured to reach speeds of up to 8-feet per second, though most are typically at around 1 to 2-feet which is still fast enough to quickly pull a swimmer away from the shore.

Be sure to check local conditions before swimming by checking the local rip current forecast through the National Weather Service, looking for Red Flags at the beach, and registering for Dare County Emergency Alerts. Read more about what to do if you get caught in a rip current in our Everything You Need to Know About Rip Currents Guide.

Rip Current Science

Sun Protection

Bright, sunny days seem like the perfect recipe for a great Outer Banks vacation. However, if you aren't careful, the summer sun can be too much of a good thing. During the summer months, the sun's rays are especially intense. The reflection of the sun off of the ocean and sand can increase your chance for sunburn.

The following tips can help you avoid heat-related illnesses - including sunburn:

  • Remember, you can sunburn even on a cloudy day!
  • Avoid dehydration and drink plenty of water when outdoors.
  • Be watchful of children and older adults, their bodies don't regulate their temperatures efficiently.
  • Try to avoid exposure to the sun during the most intense hours of the sun’s rays (10:00AM - 5:00PM).
  • Apply sunscreen with a SPF of at least 15, paying special attention to the face, nose, ears scalp and shoulders.
  • Wear sunglasses with UV Protection.
  • Wear a hat.
  • Make sure you reapply sunscreen often - especially after swimming.
  • Whenever possible, wear a shirt or coverup to minimize your sun exposure.
  • Umbrellas, tents or cabanas are great devices for staying out of direct sunlight and will also help keep you cool.

Keep Our Beaches Clean and Beautiful

We need your help to keep our beaches clean and beautiful for years to come. When you head to the beach, be sure to bring some sort of trash bag with you to gather all of your trash items at the end of the day.

Also, be sure to always clean up after your dog. Pet waste contains harmful bacteria that spreads disease. Please be sure to pick up your pet's waste, seal it in a plastic bag (some beach accesses provide bags for this) and dispose of it in trash cans. Do not bury/cover it with sand!

Lifeguarded Beaches

Remember, it's always safer to swim in front of a lifeguard! Many people are not used to swimming in the ocean, particularly one with as many currents as we have along the coast. Even if you are a good swimmer, the ocean is unpredictable. Keep in mind that other injuries requiring assistance may occur (jellyfish sting, physical injury, dehydration, wandering child, etc.) so consider swimming at lifeguarded beaches.

Many Outer Banks beaches provide manned lifeguard stands and several areas also have roving lifeguards on atvs/bikes. Generally, lifeguard stations are operated during peak season but each town has set hours and date ranges depending on the beach access. Check each town's website for additional information on their surf rescue program and beach safety regulations. Hours and locations are subject to change without notice so please always check your town's individual hours and read any signs posted at the beach access.

>> Remember, in an emergency on the beach, dial 9-1-1. Know your location - mile marker, oceanfront home address, or beach access name.

Beach Accesses

Below is a list of Public Beach Accesses on the Outer Banks along with any available amenities including parking, lifeguard stations, and wooden walkways. Please note: only accesses designated as having "Lifeguard Stations" will have a lifeguard during duty hours.

Find out more about Outer Banks Oceanfront Beach Accesses here.

Corolla

  • Corolla Village Road (Currituck Lighthouse) - Parking, Lifeguard, Handicap Parking, Wooden Walkway, Bath House, Showers, Pet Waste Bags
  • Shad Street - Parking, Lifeguard, Wooden Walkway
  • Tuna Street - Wooden Walkway
  • Sturgeon Walkway - Parking, Lifeguard, Wooden Walkway
  • Baracuda Walkway - Wooden Walkway
  • Herring Walkway - Wooden Walkway
  • Perch Street - Parking, Wooden Walkway
  • Mackeral Walkway - Wooden Walkway
  • Bonito Street - Parking, Lifeguard, Wooden Walkway
  • Coral Walkway - Wooden Walkway
  • Sailfish Walkway - Parking, Lifeguard, Wooden Walkway
  • Marlin Walkway - Wooden Walkway
  • Dolphin Street - Wooden Walkway
  • Albacore Street - Wooden Walkway
  • Yaupon Lane (Currituck County South) - Parking, Lifeguard, Handicap Parking, Wooden Walkway, Bath House, Showers, Pet Waste Bags
  • Section P Ocean Sands
  • Section O Ocean Sands
  • Section F Ocean Sands
  • Section D Ocean Sands
  • Section B Ocean Sands

*For access with Lifeguard: Website | Lifeguards on duty from 9:30am - 5:30pm (Roving patrol travels from county line to Penny's Hill in the 4x4 area).

Duck

The town of Duck DOES NOT have any PUBLIC beach accesses. Many communities do have private neighborhood accesses and wooden walk-overs for residents, renters, and guests.

  • Barrier Island - Gated Community, Lifeguard, Wooden Walkway
  • Caffey's Inlet - Lifeguard, Soundside Beach, and Pier
  • Christopher Drive - Lifeguard, Wooden Walkway
  • Four Seasons Lane - Gated Community, Lifeguard, Two Walkways, Parking
  • South Snow Geese** - Lifeguard, Wooden Walkway
  • Scarborough Lane** - Lifeguard, Wooden Walkway
  • Plover Drive** - Lifeguard, Wooden Walkway, Parking for residents only
  • Sprigtail Drive - Lifeguard, Wooden Walkway, NO PARKING

*For access with Lifeguard: Website | Lifeguards on duty from 10:00am - 6:00pm: May 26th through September 4th. (Roving patrol on ATVs May 1st - October 31st)

**Lifeguard stands at these beach accesses are only manned June 16th - August 12th

Southern Shores

Southern Shores DOES NOT have any PUBLIC beach accesses. Many communities do have private neighborhood accesses and wooden walk-overs for residents, renters, and guests.

  • Hillcrest Drive - Southern Shores Civic Association Parking, Lifeguard, Wooden Walkway, Paved Parking, Handicap Beach Access
  • Chicahauk Trail - Chicahauk Property Owner Parking, Lifeguard, Wooden Walkway, Paved Parking
  • E. Dogwood Trail** - Limited Town Parking, Lifeguard
  • 142 Ocean Blvd.** - Limited Parking, Lifeguard
  • Ocean View Loop - Limited Town Parking, Lifeguard, Handicap Beach Access

*For access with Lifeguard: Website | Lifeguards on duty from 10:00am - 6:00pm: Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day Weekend. (Roving patrol late May through September)

**Lifeguard stands at these beach accesses are only manned mid-June through mid-August

Kitty Hawk

  • Byrd Street (MP 2)- Parking, Lifeguard, Handicap Parking, Wooden Walkway, Showers, Pet Waste Bags
  • Fonck Street - Parking
  • Maynard Street - Parking
  • Bennett Street - Parking, Pet Waste Bags
  • Luke Street (MP 2.5) - Parking, Pet Waste Bags
  • Eckner Street - Parking, Lifeguard, Pet Waste Bags
  • Bleriot Street (MP 3) - Parking, Pet Waste Bags
  • Wilkins Street - Parking, Pet Waste Bags
  • Hawks Street - Parking, Pet Waste Bags
  • Balchen Street (MP 3.5) - Parking, Pet Waste Bags
  • Lillian Street (MP 4) - Parking, Handicap Parking, Wooden Walkway, Showers, Pet Waste Bags
  • Kitty Hawk Bath House - Parking, Lifeguard, Handicap Parking, Showers, Bath House, Pet Waste Bags

*For access with Lifeguard: Website | Lifeguards on duty from 10:00am - 6:00pm: Memorial Day to Labor Day (10:00 am to 5:00pm Labor Day - September 30th). (Roving patrol May through September)

Kill Devil Hills

  • Arch Street (MP 5.5) - Sand Access, No Parking
  • Helga Street - Lifeguard, Sand Access, No Parking
  • Chowan Street (MP 6) - Sand Access, No Parking
  • Hayman Blvd. - Parking, Lifeguard, Handicap Parking, Showers, Porta Potty
  • Walker Street - Sand Access, No Parking
  • Avalon Drive - Parking, Lifeguard, Wooden Walkway
  • 5th Street (MP 6.5) - Parking, Lifeguard
  • 4th Street - Wooden Walkway
  • 3rd Street (MP 7) - Lifeguard, Wooden Walkway Showers, Pet Waste Bags
  • 2nd Street - Parking, Lifeguard, Wooden Walkway, Showers, Pet Waste Bags
  • 1st Street (MP 7.5) - Parking, Lifeguard, Wooden Walkway, Showers, Pet Waste Bags
  • Asheville Drive (MP8) - Parking, Lifeguard, Handicap Parking, Wooden Walkway, Porta Potty, Showers, Pet Waste Bags
  • Prospect Ave - Parking, Handicap Parking, Wooden Walkway, Showers, Pet Waste Bags
  • Glenmere Ave - Parking, Handicap Parking, Wooden Walkway, Showers, Pet Waste Bags
  • Woodmere Ave - Parking, Lifeguard, Handicap Parking, Wooden Walkway, Showers, Pet Waste Bags
  • Ferris Ave - Parking, Lifeguard, Handicap Parking, Wooden Walkway, Showers, Pet Waste Bags
  • Raleigh Ave - Parking, Lifeguard, Handicap Parking, Wooden Walkway, Showers, Pet Waste Bags
  • Carlow Ave - Parking, Lifeguard, Handicap Parking, Wooden Walkway, Showers, Pet Waste Bags
  • Sutton Ave - Parking, Lifeguard, Handicap Parking, Wooden Walkway, Showers, Pet Waste Bags
  • Pinehurst Ave - Gravel Parking, Sand Access
  • Ocean Bay Blvd (MP 8.5) - Parking, Lifeguard, Handicap Parking, Wooden Walkway, Showers, Bath House, Pet Waste Bags
  • Carlton Ave - Limited Paved Parking, Sand Access
  • Oregon Ave - Lifeguard, Handicap Parking, Showers
  • Clark Street (MP 9) - Parking, Wooden Walkway, Showers, Pet Waste Bags
  • Calvin Street - Limited Paved Parking, Sand Access, Pet Waste Bags
  • Martin Street - Parking, Lifeguard, Handicap Parking, Wooden Walkway, Showers, Pet Waste Bags
  • Atlantic Street (MP 9.5) - Parking, Lifeguard, Handicap Parking, Wooden Walkway, Porta Potty, Showers, Pet Waste Bags
  • Lake Drive - Limited Parking, Lifeguard Sand Access
  • 8th Street (MP 10) - Parking, Lifeguard, Handicap, Wooden Walkway, Showers, Pet Waste Bags

*For access with Lifeguard: Website | Lifeguards on duty from 10:00am - 5:30pm: Memorial Day to Labor Day. (Roving patrol through October 15th)

Nags Head

  • Albatross Street (MP 10) - Parking, Lifeguard, Wooden Walkway, Pet Waste Bags
  • Gallery Row - Sand Access, Pet Waste Bags, No Parking
  • Abalone Street (MP 10.5) - Parking, Lifeguard, Wooden Walkway, SHowers, Porta Potty, Pet Waste Bags
  • Admiral Street - Parking, Pet Waste Bags
  • Baltic Street - Parking, Handicap Parking, Wooden Walkway, Showers, Porta Potty, Pet Waste Bags
  • Barnes Street (MP 11) - Parking, Wooden Walkway, Showers, Porta Potty, Pet Waste Bags
  • Blackman Street - Parking, Handicap Parking, Wooden Walkway, Showers, Porta Potty, Pet Waste Bags
  • Bonnett Street - Parking, Lifeguard, Handicap Parking, Wooden Walkway, Showers, Bath House, Pet Waste Bags
  • Bittern Street (MP 11.5) - Parking, Wooden Walkway, Showers, Pet Waste Bags
  • Bladen Street - Parking, Hanidcap Parking, Wooden Walkway, Showers, Porta Potty, Pet Waste Bags
  • Bainbridge Street - Parking, Wooden Walkway, Pet Waste Bags
  • Curlew Street (MP12) - Parking, Handicap Parking, Wooden Walkway, Showers, Porta Potty, Pet Waste Bags
  • Hollowell Street - Parking, Lifeguard, Wooden Walkway, Showers, Pet Waste Bags
  • Conch Street (MP 12.5) - Parking, Handicap Parking, Wooden Walkway, Pet Waste Bags
  • Enterprise Street (MP 14) - Parking, Handicap Parking, Lifeguard, Wooden Walkway, Showers, Porta Potty, Pet Waste Bags
  • Loggerhead Street - Parking, Wooden Walkway, Showers, Pet Waste Bags
  • Town Hall - Parking, Handicap Parking, Wooden Walkway, Porta Potty, Pet Waste Bags
  • Forrest Street - Parking, Handicap Parking, Life Guard, Wooden Walkway, Showers, Porta Potty, Pet Waste Bags
  • Grouse Street (MP 16) - Sand Acces, No Parking
  • Glidden Street - Parking, Handicap Parking, Wooden Walkway, Showers, Pet Waste Bags
  • Gull Street - Parking, Handicap Parking, Pet Waste Bags
  • Gray Eagle Street (MP 16.5) - Parking, Lifeguard, Wooden Walkway, Porta Potty, Pet Waste Bags
  • Jennette's Pier - Parking, Handicap Parking, Lifeguard, Wooden Walkway, Showers, Bath House, Pet Waste Bags
  • Gulfstream Street - Parking, Handicap Parking, Lifeguard, Wooden Walkway, Showers, Pet Waste Bags
  • Governor Street (MP 17) - Parking, Porta Potty, Pet Waste Bags
  • Huron Street - Parking, Wooden Walkway, Porta Potty, Pet Waste Bags
  • Holden Street - Parking, Handicap Parking, Wooden Walkway, Pet Waste Bags
  • Hargove Street (MP 17.5) - Parking, Handicap Parking, Lifeguard, Wooden Walkway, Showers, Bath House, Pet Waste Bags
  • Ida Street - Parking, Lifeguard, Pet Waste Bags
  • Isabella Street (MP 18.5) - Parking
  • Islington Street - Wooden Walkway
  • Indigo Street - Parking, Handicap Parking, Lifeguard, Wooden Walkway, Showers, Porta Potty, Pet Waste Bags
  • Jay Street (MP 19) - Sand Access, No Parking
  • June Street - Parking, Handicap Parking, Wooden Walkway, Showers, Porta Potty, Pet Waste Bags
  • James Street - Sand Access, No Parking
  • Jacobs Street (MP 19.5) - Sand Access, No Parking
  • Juncos Street - Parking, Handicap Parking, Lifeguard, Wooden Walkway, Showers, Porta Potty, Pet Waste Bags
  • Surfside Drive - Sand Access, No Parking
  • Limulus Drive (MP 20) - Parking, Lifeguard, Pet Waste Bags

*For access with Lifeguard: Website | Lifeguards on duty from 10:00am - 6:00pm: Memorial Day to Labor Day. (Roving patrol until 6pm through September 30th and until 5:00pm October 15th)

Cape Hatteras National Seashore

  • Coquina Beach (MP 26) - Parking, Handicap Parking, Lifeguard, Wooden Walkway, Showers, Bath House, Pet Waste Bags
  • Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Beach - Parking, Lifeguard
  • Frisco Beach (South of Frisco Village) - Parking, Handicap Parking, Lifeguard, Showers, Bath House
  • Ocracoke Day Use Beach - Parking, Handicap Parking, Lifeguard, Showers, Bath House

*For access with Lifeguard: Website | Lifeguards on duty from 9:00am - 5:00pm: Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend.

Book Now!

Your perfect OBX vacation is calling. There are many different ways to access the beach to ensure that you have the best vacation ever.

So what are you waiting for?  Book your Outer Banks vacation rental home today!