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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.

Beach Warning Flags

The National Weather Service issues a daily forecast with hazard statements for the ocean beaches on the Outer Banks. They use beach warning flags to signify whether the "rip current risk level" and other hidden hazards are LOW, MODERATE, or HIGH. Below are the flags used by the NWS and their meaning so you can know exactly what the forecast is and how safe it is to go in the water. Always consult a lifeguard or other local ocean rescue personnel with any questions and check out "What to Do on Red Flag Days" for fun Outer Banks activities you and your family can do without going in the water!

NO FLAGS: LOW RISK

YELLOW FLAG: MODERATE RISK

RED FLAG: HIGH RISK

DOUBLE RED FLAG: WATER IS CLOSED

PURPLE FLAG: DANGEROUS MARINE LIFE

RED/YELLOW FLAG: LIFEGUARDED BEACH*

  • NO FLAGS means that the National Weather Service is predicting a low risk of rip currents or dangerous conditions. Life-threatening rip currents are still possible so it is important always to know your location and to swim near a lifeguard when possible.
  • YELLOW FLAG means there is a MODERATE RISK of hazardous surf and/or life-threatening rip currents. Swimmers should enter the water with caution. 
  • RED FLAG means there is a HIGH RISK of hazardous surf and/or life-threatening rip currents. All swimmers are advised NOT to enter the water. Rough conditions are expected.
  • DOUBLE RED FLAG means there is a HIGH RISK of hazardous surf and/or life-threatening rip currents AND local ocean rescue has determined the water to be unsafe for swimmers and rescue personnel. The water is CLOSED to the public.
  • PURPLE FLAG means that dangerous marine life such as jellyfish or stingrays are present in the water. This does NOT include sharks.  
  • RED/YELLOW FLAG means that lifeguards monitor a specific area of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore.* Flags may be used to designate swimming areas and/or indicate protection by a qualified lifeguard.

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 & Lifeguard Stations By Town

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.

Beach Safety Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find out what the weather and conditions are going to be at the beach?

Text OBXBEACHCONDITIONS to 77295 to have Dare County beach condition reports sent directly to your phone each day. 

You can also click this link for morning beach conditions, more beach safety information, and local tips.

Don't be afraid to ask the lifeguards about rip currents and other ocean conditions before starting your beach day!

How do I avoid getting caught in a rip current?

Check out the beach forecast for whichever beach you're going to by visiting the NWS.

Then follow these tips to keep your beach vacation safe and fun:

  • Never swim alone. No matter how experienced you are, it's important to remember that the ocean is an entirely different creature than a pool or a lake and you should always exercise caution.
  • Swim near a lifeguard or lifeguard station whenever possible.
  • Be aware of all signs, flags, and otherwise posted warnings, and act accordingly.
  • Follow all instructions from the lifeguards during your swim.
  • Only enter the water with a flotation device and with a buddy when there is no lifeguard present.
  • Be aware of your surroundings. Rip currents can pop up unexpectedly so if you think you see them or believe conditions to be favorable, better safe than sorry. Do NOT go into the water.

 

What is a heat stroke and how do I prevent one?

According to the CDCheat stroke is the most serious heat-related illness. It occurs when the body can no longer control its temperature: the body's temperature rises rapidly, the sweating mechanism fails, and the body is unable to cool down. When heat stroke occurs, the body temperature can rise to 106°F or higher within 10 to 15 minutes. Symptoms of a heat stroke include a throbbing headache, confusion, nausea, dizziness, body temperature above 103°F, hot, red, dry or damp skin, rapid and strong pulse, fainting, and loss of consciousness.

When you're spending a lot of time out in the heat, it's important take a few careful precautions to protect you and your family:

  • Hydrate! Drink plenty of water but also be sure to replenish electrolytes with drinks like Powerade or Gatorade.
  • Keep children, the elderly, and those with chronic conditions inside when temperatures are above 95°F.
  • Take breaks in the shade and/or AC when spending a lot of time outside.
  • Use the appropriate SPF of sunscreen for your skin and reapply every two hours.
  • Wear hats, lightweight clothing, and light colors whenever possible.
  • Get beach condition alerts from OBXAlerts to be aware of extreme heat alerts.

Why is there a rip current threat if the ocean appears calm?

Hidden rip currents can manifest under the water's surface when there are long-period swells. This means that the ocean's surface may appear calm, but underneath an elevated rip current risk exists. Lifeguards and local officials work with the National Weather Service to determine whether or not the water is safe from rip current risks.

My dog loves the beach! Is there anything I should know when keeping my dog safe at the beach?

Bringing your dog on vacation can be a very rewarding and fun experience for you both but if you are planning on bringing along your dog this year, check out our comprehensive guide for Vacationing With Fido for information about travel hacks, beach rules, and emergency vet services here on the Outer Banks.

And considering your pet's safety while at the beach, keep these things in mind:

  • Ocean water can dehydrate dogs quickly, so be sure to bring a bowl and fresh water.
  • Test the sand first to determine whether or not your pupper needs paw protection - hot sand CAN burn puppy paws.
  • Bring an umbrella or tent to keep your pet from getting sunburned.
  • Running on the sand is a LOT harder than pavement or grass - give your canine companion plenty of time to rest in between playing.
  • Rinse the salt of their coat after your beach day for their comfort and easy cleanup.

How can I stay safe while swimming in the ocean?

To make the most out of your beach vacation and enjoy swimming in the ocean, follow these easy tips:

  • Make sure that you know how to swim BEFORE entering the ocean.
  • Swim near a lifeguard whenever possible.
  • Have a buddy and a flotation device when you're in the water.
  • Do not swim at dawn, dusk, or when it is dark.
  • Be aware of weather conditions and plan for the quick-changing OBX weather. Get out of the ocean if you hear thunder and seek shelter immediately.

What do I do if I see someone caught in a rip current?

The biggest piece of advice when trying to help someone caught in a rip current: do NOT swim out to save them. It's easy to get caught in the current, yourself, creating a more complicated situation for ocean rescue personnel and possibly getting hurt yourself. Instead, do the following:

  • Alert the closest lifeguard. If no one is nearby, call 911.
  • Encourage the person in distress to swim parallel to the shore.
  • Throw out a float, boogie board, etc. that they can use to stay above the water.
  • Do NOT enter the water and do not lose sight of the person in the water.
  • Know your location and be prepared to relay this information to ocean rescue personnel.

What do I do if I'm caught in a rip current?

The most important thing to do if you're caught in a rip current is to STAY CALM and follow these tips:

  • Don't panic and don't swim against the current.
  • Yell for help.
  • Relax and try to float.
  • Swim parallel to sore until you're out of the current.
  • Once you can no longer feel the current pulling you, then you can swim towards shore.
  • Conserve your energy. It will not pull you under, just out.

What is a rip current?

According to NOAA, "rip currents are powerful, narrow channels of fast-moving water." This strong flow of water runs from the shore back into the ocean like a river, pulling sand and marine life away from the shore.

These channels can be very dangerous when the combination of waves, tides, and beach conditions come together to create fast-moving water that can pull people out into the ocean. Rip currents become dangerous when swimmers are pulled so far out that they are unable to safely make it back to shore.

How can I spot a rip current?

It's easiest to see a rip current from an elevated spot like a lifeguard stand or a beach access. Be on the lookout for the following:

  • Narrow regions of choppy water moving away from the shore.
  • Plumes of sand or foam moving away from shore.
  • Deep channels of water that appear darker than the rest of the area.

What can I do to help stranded wildlife?

If you see wildlife that may be injured, the best thing you can do is stay away - give the animals their space and contact the responsible authorities.

  • If you see a beached marine mammal, please call the Outer Banks Marine Mammal Stranding Network hotline at 252.455.9654. 
  • If you find a sea turtle nest or an injured sea turtle, please report it to the Network for Endangered Sea Turtles (N.E.S.T.) at 252.441.8622. 
  • If you find an injured, orphaned, or diseased land mammal, you can call Outer Banks Wild Care at 252.995.4793.
  • If you find an injured or orphaned bird, please contact Hatteras Island Wildlife Rehabilitation at 252.475.4217.

*Please note, loons are a common Outer Banks bird. These birds have legs that make walking on land somewhat difficult. If you see a loon struggling to walk, the bird is not necessarily injured but may just be waiting for the tide to carry them back out to the water.