Season from March to November. Year-round possible if you ride on the warmer SW winds with warm water currents. Wetsuits needed beginning and end of the year, just shorts from late spring to early fall. Warm gulf-stream ocean currents keep air and water temperatures warm nearly year-round.
- January - February - June - July - October - November - December
Wind Type:
- Thermal Winds - Frontal Winds
Best Direction:
- S - SW - W - NW
Main Direction:
- NE - SW
Best is SW, very steady and warm. If the wind turns more easterly, you can ride on the ocean. In June and July 90% wind from SW. Starts at 3pm, strongest at 7pm and lasts until sunset. In August and September the wind is not consistent. In October and November 70% wind. In December to February windy almost daily. In March to May frontals and winds from SW, NW and NE. Main directions: NE and SW. Works in: S, SW, W, NW. Nags Head gets summertime thermals that sometimes don't reach Hatteras Island.
Easiest is a rental car. Follow the signs to the Outer Banks from Norfolk (route 168S and then 158). Take 158 north until you get to Nags Head and turn left into the Jockey's Ridge State Park. Gates close at sunset, don't get locked in. Park directly on the beach with a 4x4.
You simply must make time for the following places to eat: Mama Kwan's: Get the seared tuna app, then try either the special occasion pasta or fish tacos! Kill Devil Grill: Try the cheese steak egg rolls, and make sure to check the "specials board". Goombay's: Damien & Scotty can mix some FANTASTIC drinks! Watch out for the Goombay Smash - Delicious and sneaky. Mexicali Brews: definitely try the blackened fish tacos.
