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Beach
both
Level 5/10

S-Turns

Rodanthe, USA
🌀Strong rips🏝️Remote

S-Turns is named for the serpentine curves in Highway 12 near Rodanthe—and for the winding tubes that form along this stretch when hurricane swells unload on the Outer Banks. This is one of the most consistent sections of the OBX, positioned to catch swells from multiple directions and offering empty peaks spread across miles of beach. The remote location means fewer crowds than the northern beaches, but also means commitment to the drive. When conditions align, S-Turns delivers some of the best waves on the East Coast, with powerful barrels and workable walls that reward the dedicated.

Spot Details

Swell Requirements

Optimal direction
E (100°)
Direction range
70° - 150°
Size range
0.8m - 3.5m
Ideal period
14s+

Wind Requirements

Optimal direction
W (280°)
Offshore range
250° - 320°
Best window
morning

Tide Requirements

Optimal tide
low
Optimal range
0.3m - 1m

Water temp

19°C

Wetsuit

3/2mm fullsuit

Difficulty

5/10

Crowd level

3/10

Access: Named for curves in Highway 12.

Getting There

Airport
ORF
Drive time
100 min

Nearby Buoy

Forecasts are validated against real-time buoy data.

41025 (NOAA)

Best Season

Peak: Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar

Secondary: Aug

Hurricane swells can get epic here.

Data Quality

verified

Verified by Surfline spot guide