Surfing in Virginia Beach and the Outer Banks of North Carolina

The Virginia Beachfront -- You may not always find the biggest waves in Virginia Beach and its true some days you may not find any surfable waves at all. However with the fun atmosphere, easy accessibility, and nice weather this is still a hot destination for surfing.

Regardless of when you decide to visit, you can always find something to do for everyone. Kick back and try your luck at one of the many beach front mini-golf courses, cool off with a soft serve ice cream from the boardwalk's Dairy Queen, or head over to Rudee Inlet for some grub. Surf shops and other specialty shops line the boardwalk for when you want shade from that ever hot sun.

Consider coming to town during the ECSC which is a major amateur event for the United States Surfing Federation. Each year surfers, amateurs to pros, compete for East Coast surfing titles and prizes. Other events going on during the ECSC are skim-boarding, volleyball, street skating and ramp contests, a 5K run on the boardwalk, and a swimsuit contest. The live music will have you dancing in the sand.

With so many great attractions and plenty of food (outdoor cafe, casual dining to luxury dining, restaurants at one of the many hotels) anywhere you decide to stay will have something to offer. Chose from hundreds of hotels, beach front condos, and even campgrounds.

Outer Banks of North Carolina....miles of beach means uncrowded waves.

Hatteras Island has been known to many in the surfing world as one of the best surfing beaches on the East Coast. Each year Hatteras Island hosts the annual Eastern Surfing Association (ESA) tournament. This event determines which of the top surfers from the East Coast will make it to the USA surfing championships. Cape Hatteras National Seashore stretches for 70 miles which gives you plenty of space to catch a good wave. Popular with both tourist, locals, and day-trippers from Virginia; Cape Hatteras is great for both the beginning surfer and the old pro.

The location of the island allows it to receive swells from both the NW and the SW. During storms you will see surfers at different surfing breaks; the S curves at Mirlo Beach Roadanthe, the Cape Hatteras Fishing Pier in Frisco, the Lifeguarded Beach in Buxton, and the Old Road in Avon. The shape of the island and the offshore winds makes surfing here perfect for all skill levels because you will always be able to find a wave that matches your ability.

New to surfing and do not have a board? No worries. The REAL Rental/Demo Center has boards to rent from the beginner to the expert surfer. If you end up wanting to purchase a surfboard 100% of the rental rates can be applied toward your purchase. REAL also offers surf lessons during the months of March through December. Lessons run about $100 for 1.5 hours and include the use of a board and rental discounts for the remainder of your stay.

With so many options there is something to fit every budget and desire; beachfront houses, 1 bedroom villas, or hotels. Choose from over the top luxury to the bare minimum. With the beauty of the ocean surrounding you wherever you decide to stay will be simply amazing.