The Atlantic side provides a dynamic, high-surf environment. It is best suited for teens, adults, surfers, and traditional beachgoers looking for rolling waves. Metal detecting is strictly prohibited on all of these National Seashore beaches.

Avon Village Beach

No LifeguardsHigh Energy

• Best Activities: Swimming, surfing, dramatic sunrises, shell hunting after storms, and stargazing.
• Beach Fires: This is the premier location for evening beach campfires. Fires are allowed with a free NPS permit and must be built below the high-tide line.
• Note: Because of the lack of light pollution, this is a prime spot to view the Milky Way.

Frisco Beach (Frisco Day Use Area)

LifeguardedCalmer Waves

• Best Activities: Relaxed swimming, wading, and shelling.
• Snorkeling: Because this shoreline faces south rather than east, it has gentler waves and noticeably warmer water, resulting in superior snorkeling visibility.
• Environment: Often considered a hidden gem, it is usually less crowded and ideal for younger kids. Excellent for finding whelks and Scotch Bonnets.

Old Hatteras Lighthouse Beach (Buxton)

LifeguardedLarge Groups

• Best Activities: Surfing and safer swimming due to lifeguards.
• Surfing: Known locally as "The Jetties," it features some of the best surf breaks on the East Coast.
• Note: You can swim directly in the shadow of America's tallest brick lighthouse.

Rodanthe Beach / Rodanthe Pier

No Lifeguards

• Best Activities: Sunrises, stargazing, and dramatic scenery.
• Environment: Features exceptional dark skies north of the pier and is famous for the "over-wash" houses sitting perilously close to the surf.