Kitesurfing in Cape Hatteras

Photo: Ken Lund from Reno, Nevada, USA · Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Epic~6 days

Why go

Cape Hatteras sits on the Outer Banks, a strip of sand dunes between the Atlantic and the shallow Pamlico Sound. The sound stays waist-deep for hundreds of metres from shore, and reliable spring and autumn winds make it one of the best places in North America to learn and progress.

When

In season: Apr–Jun, Sep–Nov · Peak: May, Oct

Who it’s for

Skill

Beginner–Advanced

Effort

Moderate

Suitable from

12+ · Teen+

Crowds

Steady

Cost

$$$

Kitesurfing specifics

Level: Beginner to advanced
Spots: Pamlico Sound flats, Canadian Hole, ocean breaks
Water: Shallow sound and Atlantic surf
Wind season: Spring and autumn

What to expect

Flat, shallow water on the sound side with steady winds, and Atlantic waves on the ocean side when the direction is right. Summer winds are lighter, and storms can bring strong gusts.

Routes

What the difficulty bands mean

easy: Accessible with basic fitness; no technical skills or exposure.
moderate: Sustained effort or some exposure; comfort on the terrain expected.
hard: Long, technical or serious — experience and the right conditions required.

Pamlico Sound flatwater
easy
Waist-deep water for miles, the best kite learning water in America
Canadian Hole
moderate
The classic launch, wind almost every day in season
Ocean side waves
hard
Atlantic swell for wave riding when the wind is right

How to start

Base in Waves, Rodanthe or Avon and book lessons with a local kite school. Learn on the sound-side flats, ride Canadian Hole as you improve, and try the ocean side only once you are confident.