Cape Hatteras
Cape Hatteras is a thin, long stretch of islands connected by human-made bridges along NC-12 that bend away and back from the mainland. This island group creates a unique playground for kiteboarders. There are all kinds of conditions, from quality waves to perfect butterflat spots. With warm summers, scenic sand dunes, and vibes as laid back as the kitesurfing in La Ventana, Mexico, it’s the perfect beach-holiday getaway for kiteboarders and non-kiteboarders alike.
Seventy miles of beaches with flat water shoreline
Matt Nuzzo, the Co-founder of REAL Watersports, says, “Cape Hatteras has epic winds year-round. World-class waves. Seventy miles of pristine beaches and flat water shoreline. Beautiful sunrises and sunsets, both over the water. Not many destinations in the world can match this.”
Cape Hatteras has spots for all skill levels
There are a variety of places for waves on the Atlantic side. On the west side, in Pamlico Sound, are flat, waist-deep spots, ideal for beginners. Because Cape Hatteras is so far away from the mainland, plan on steady, stable wind in any direction. Small islands within the sound create slickwater conditions downwind.
A launching point for first-timers to the area
If you are visiting Cape Hatteras for the first time, the Kite Point (SW or NW wind), south of Avon, is a great starting point. It has flat to choppy waist-deep water, which makes it ideal for beginners.
Frisco (SW or NE wind), southwest of Buxton, has several kite spots on the sound side and surfside, so if you can’t decide what conditions you want, this spot has enough variety to keep you happy.
You can find a great overview of all the kite spots in the area here and a more detailed map with descriptions here.
Downwinder options for advanced kiters
If you are into downwinders (for independent riders only), you’ll find plenty of great alternatives. Make sure to get a downwinder guide from one of the kite shops and be sure to check out this helpful article. Like the kiteboarding in Squamish, Cape Hatteras is famous for its flatwater freestyle opportunities, so if you’re chasing the butterflat, go for the Planet of the Apes downwinder, and you can find a few slicks in the outlets and channels.
