Many say that if you can surf on the Outer Banks, you can surf anywhere. Thanks to the ever-changing sandbars and the OBX’s unique position on the Atlantic coast, it’s one of the best places to learn and grow as a surfer. We visited some of our favorite surf shops, attended surf events, and spoke with the local experts to give you an inside look at the Outer Banks surfing scene.
Outer Banks surf shops are the ultimate destination for surf lessons, top-quality boards and gear, and unique OBX souvenirs. If you're staying in a Blue home that offers a beach gear credit, use it to rent a surfboard! From Corolla to Nags Head, we explored some of our favorite local surf shops on the beach.
In Nags Head, we stopped into some of the most iconic Outer Banks surf shops, including Whalebone Surf Shop, Outer Surf, Outer Banks Boarding Company, Secret Spot Surf Shop, Kitty Hawk Surf Co., and Cavalier Surf Shop. Each offers a mix of boards, surf gear, and coastal clothing. If you’re looking for surfboard rentals, head to Cavalier Surf Shop, Kitty Hawk Surf Co., Outer Surf, Outer Banks Boarding Company, or Secret Spot Surf Shop. For surf lessons in Nags Head, Outer Surf and Secret Spot Surf Shop are great local options.
In Corolla, we visited the long-standing Corolla Surf Shop in Monterey Plaza. Family-owned since 1996, this shop continues to provide expert advice, rentals, and surf apparel. They even share a tried-and-true formula for the best Corolla surf conditions: swell (about 3’) + offshore wind (0–10 mph) + incoming tide + break (about 3’ deep) = great waves.
In Kitty Hawk, we checked out the legendary WRV (Wave Riding Vehicles). Founded in 1967 in Virginia Beach, WRV has grown into one of the biggest names in East Coast surfing. At their OBX location, you can sign up for surf lessons, rent equipment, and shop their wide range of boards, apparel, and gear.
In Duck, we stopped at Duck Village Outfitters and another Kitty Hawk Surf Co. location, both offering gear, rentals, and coastal lifestyle apparel. Along with gear, rentals, and apparel. Duck Village Outfitters offers beginner surf lessons and kayak tours!
Outer Banks Surf Events
Surf culture on the Outer Banks thrives with exciting events throughout the year, uniting local surfers, visitors, and the wider community. From inclusive programs to high-profile competitions, here’s a guide to some of the must-see OBX surf events.
Rip Curl Throwdown Surf Classic
In Southern Shores, Rip Curl’s Throwdown Surf Classic takes place every fall to benefit the Outer Banks Relief Foundation. The event combines high-energy surf action with community engagement, souvenirs, and a chance to give back.
Photo Credit: Throwdown Surf Classic
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Which Craft Surf Gathering
Annual surf contest fundraiser where 100% of proceeds go to Outer Banks Relief Foundation
Photo Credit: Which Craft Surf Gathering
Down the Road Surf & Art Festival
Every October, locals host the Down the Road Surf & Art Festival between Kitty Hawk and Nags Head. This creative festival features a unique superlative-based surf competition—awards like “Best Wave in Jeans” add a playful twist—alongside an art market showcasing local OBX artists and makers.
Next Surf Event: October 10th-12th, 2025. Location TBD
Photo Credit: Down the Road Surf & Art Festival
Surfing for Autism
Every summer, Surfing for Autism provides individuals with autism an inclusive opportunity to experience the joy of surfing. This event emphasizes accessibility, fun, and learning, helping participants ride the waves in a safe and supportive environment.
Photo Credit: Surfing for Autism
WRV Outer Banks Pro Surf Contest
The Eastern Surfing Association (ESA) hosts multiple competitions along the OBX coastline, including the popular WRV Outer Banks Pro Surf Contest at Jennette’s Pier. Surf fans flock to watch skilled surfers carve the waves and compete for top honors in this iconic event.
Next Surf Event: August 2026 at Jennette's Pier
Photo Credit: WRV Outer Banks Pro Surf Contest
What do you think the surfing community is like here on the Outer Banks?
The Outer Banks surf community radiates an incredible sense of joy and camaraderie. I've encountered countless wonderful individuals within this vibrant community, many of whom have become like family to me.
What does surfing on the Outer Banks mean to you?
To me surfing on the Outer Banks means adventure! Our coastline offers an incredible variety of waves. With the sand bars constantly shifting; you are always on the hunt and that's what makes surfing on the Outer Banks so special!
What advice do you have for anyone looking to learn how to surf while on vacation here in the Outer Banks?
My advice for anyone learning to surf is simple: don’t be afraid to try—every surfer starts somewhere! Each session is different, and that’s part of the beauty of it, so don’t let a tougher day discourage you. One of my biggest pieces of advice is to enjoy the wipeout process; it's part of the fun! And if you’re looking for an extra boost of confidence, I’d highly recommend taking a lesson with Outer Surf!
What is the surfing community like in Corolla for you with majority of shops and contests being held south?
Corolla has a great little surfing community. We are a close-knit group, and everyone knows each other. It’s pretty special when the conditions come together up here, because we have miles of empty sandbars and the waves can get really good.
What advice do you have for someone coming to Corolla to learn how to surf or just surf in general?
In the summer, Corolla is one of the best places to learn to surf. Our relatively flat shorelines typically create sandbars that extend farther into the ocean than many other setups on the East Coast. My best advice to someone visiting Corolla would be to stop by the Corolla Surf Shop if you’re interested in learning how to surf or just want to know the state of the sandbars.
What does surfing on the Outer Banks mean to you and how has it shaped your life here?
Surfing in Corolla means a lot to me. It has shaped countless lives, including my own, and gave me the chance to go into business with my two brothers. We primarily learned to surf on the four-wheel-drive beach. Even after traveling to incredible surf spots abroad, north of the pavement in Corolla remains a favorite place to find some waves.
Book your Outer Banks Blue home, sign up for a surf lesson at a local OBX surf shop, and enjoy the waves! Take advantage of your beach gear credit at (select homes) to rent a surfboard and make the most of your stay. With Blue, vacation rentals become a full Outer Banks surfing experience.
Check out our Blue Beach Cam in Kill Devil Hills to check the surf conditions and use our beach access map to find a spot before you get out there!
