North Carolina • Outer BanksBuoy: 41025

Cape Hatteras

Good

Wave Height

1-3

ft

Swell

~5s

ESE

Wind

11mph

Offshore (W)

Water

83°

Boardshorts

Rising• High in 1h 55m

Updated: 9/18/2026, 5:30:23 PM • Data: Open-Meteo

Accurate?

Surf Graph

Clean
Fair
Choppy
Flat

Tide Forecast

Today
H5:37am2.7ft
L11:44am1.2ft
H6:20pm3.4ft
Tomorrow
L1:06am1.3ft
H6:52am2.7ft
L12:46pm1.3ft
H7:28pm3.4ft
Mon, Sep 21
L2:00am1.2ft
H8:02am2.8ft
L1:45pm1.2ft
H8:24pm3.5ft
Tue, Sep 22
L2:47am1.1ft

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 83°F. Boardshorts or a rashguard should be comfortable.

What is the surf like at Cape Hatteras today?

Cape Hatteras currently has waves around 1-3ft. 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 1:37 AM 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 8:03 PM 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

Wednesday morning looks like your best bet with clean 3-4ft waves, longer period sets, and that NE wind holding offshore enough to shape things up nicely. Grab it before the tide goes low around 9:17 and the wind shifts more onshore as the day goes on.

Updated 9/14/2026, 6:02:28 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.