OBX beaches employ a warning system -- a large red flag flying indicates that the currents are strong and the water is unsafe for swimming. DO NOT GO IN THE WATER -- YOU PUT YOURSELF AND LIFEGUARDS AT RISK! Local safety officials determine when such conditions exist and also make the decision as to when to take the flags down. Conditions may change during the course of the day -- pay attention! Just because red flags are not posted does not mean the ocean is safe; there is always a risk when swimming or wading in open waters.  If you are concerned about the conditions, check with a lifeguard at one of the designated lifeguard stands.

When there’s a storm offshore, the ocean swells get bigger—sometimes even higher than 8 feet. It’s one reason why the hurricane season (from June to November) is actually one of the most popular times to surf.

The Outer Banks are certainly beautiful, but for ancient Native American tribes, the sandy islands were a harsh place to find food. The name ‘Hatteras’ comes from an Algonquin word that means ‘there is less vegetation.'