Shackleford Banks is a surf spot located in North Carolina, USA Southeast. The spot provides both left and right waves. It is situated on a barrier island system on the coast of Carteret County, accessible only by boat. Surfers can take a ferry from Morehead City, Beaufort, or Harkers Island to reach the spot. The surf break features a coral reef and sand bottom, suitable for experienced surfers. Shackleford Banks is known for its very consistent waves, with a wave length ranging from 150 to 300 meters. The spot works best on a groundswell with a northeast wind, and the tide is typically medium. The area is characterized by its transition from deep water to a shallow sandbar, which contributes to the wave formation. Crowds are usually sparse, making it an attractive option for those seeking less crowded surf conditions. However, it’s important to check the surf forecast and report before heading out. Nearby surf spots include Cape Lookout, Atlantic Beach, Emerald Isle, Onslow Beach, and Surf City Pier. Shackleford Banks is part of the Cape Lookout National Seashore and is known for its feral horses, believed to be descendants of Spanish Mustangs. The island has a rich history, once home to a settlement called Diamond City, which was abandoned by 1902. Today, it remains uninhabited and serves as a natural habitat. When surfing here, it’s crucial to respect the environment and wildlife. Always check your skills before paddling out to ensure the spot and conditions match your surfing level. If the spot becomes crowded, remember to follow proper surf etiquette. For those interested in the area’s history and nature, Shackleford Banks offers more than just surfing, with opportunities for beach camping and wildlife observation. Check out the good surf at Shackleford Banks in the next 7 days, the webcams, the full forecast report, or see the spot on the surf map.
Tides have a significant impact on wave quality at certain surf spots like Shackleford Banks, causing conditions to vary throughout the tidal cycle. As the tide moves between high and low, the water depth over the seabed changes, affecting how the waves break. At these spots, high tide usually produce softer, slower waves, while low tide can generate faster, steeper waves. Some spots have specific tide stages when they work best, offering optimal conditions only at certain times of the day.
Near spots
There are 5 surf spots within a range of 100 km from Shackleford Banks. Use this section to find alternative spots that may be less crowded, better suited for your surfing skills, or offer a better forecast report for the next 7 days. Each spot includes detailed surf reports, forecast updates, and webcam views to help you plan. Whether you're seeking less crowded alternatives or simply exploring a region, the list of nearby surf spots is an essential tool.
See all 5 surf spots