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North Carolina • Outer BanksBuoy: 41025

Cape Hatteras

Good

Wave Height

2-4

ft

Swell

~7s

E

Wind

7mph

Offshore (SW)

Water

75°

Boardshorts

Falling• Low in 5h 3m

Updated: 5/3/2026, 5:30:45 PM • Data: Open-Meteo

Accurate?

Surf Graph

Clean
Fair
Choppy
Flat

Tide Forecast

Today
L7:51am0.2ft
H1:53pm2.7ft
L7:38pm0.4ft
Tomorrow
H2:05am3.5ft
L8:31am0.3ft
H2:32pm2.6ft
L8:18pm0.6ft
Wed, May 6
H2:46am3.3ft
L9:14am0.4ft
H3:13pm2.6ft
L9:04pm0.7ft

Recent History

No recent history available
Cape Hatteras

About Cape Hatteras

Cape Hatteras is one of the most powerful and consistent surf zones on the U.S. East Coast, where the collision of warm Gulf Stream water and cold Atlantic currents creates year-round swell, heavy beach breaks, and long, rippable walls. The Outer Banks’ shifting sandbars, especially around Buxton, Frisco, and the Lighthouse, deliver hurricane-season bombs and clean winter surf that draw both traveling pros and dedicated locals. Notable surfers tied to the area include East Coast legends like Brett Barley, known for world-class barrel riding and heavy-water clips, and Jesse Hines, a longtime OBX standout. With raw Atlantic energy, dramatic conditions, and a core surf community, Cape Hatteras remains a premier destination for serious surfers looking for real East Coast power.

FAQ

What is the water temperature at Cape Hatteras?

The current water temperature at Cape Hatteras is 75°F. Boardshorts or a rashguard should be comfortable.

What is the surf like at Cape Hatteras today?

Cape Hatteras currently has waves around 2-4ft. Conditions change throughout the day, so check back for updated forecasts.

What time is high tide at Cape Hatteras?

Today's high tide at Cape Hatteras is at 9:28 PM ET. Tide times shift daily, so check our forecast for upcoming tide schedules.

What time is low tide at Cape Hatteras?

Today's low tide at Cape Hatteras is at 3:51 AM ET. Tide times shift daily, so check our forecast for upcoming tide schedules.

What are the best conditions for surfing Cape Hatteras?

Cape Hatteras works best with swells from the E, ENE, NE and W, SW winds (offshore). The ideal tide is mid.

Is Cape Hatteras good for beginners?

Yes, Cape Hatteras is suitable for beginners, especially on smaller days. It's always a good idea to check conditions before paddling out and consider taking a lesson if you're new to surfing.

This Week's Outlook

Best bet looks like Monday morning with clean 3-footers from that east swell and light onshore winds around the incoming high tide at 1:53 PM. Skip Thursday unless you're feeling brave - that 4-foot surf comes with howling 30+ mph winds that'll turn it into a washing machine.

Updated 5/3/2026, 6:02:08 PM

Spot Info

Break TypeBeach Break
BottomSand
Skill LevelAll Levels
CrowdModerate to Heavy
Best TideMid
Best SwellE, ENE, NE
Best WindW, SW
ParkingBeach access ramps and street parking

Local Tip

Most powerful and consistent zone on the East Coast. Check Buxton and Lighthouse areas for quality bars.