S-Turns
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.
S-Turns surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- E (100°)
- Direction range
- 70° - 150°
- Size range
- 0.8m - 3.5m
- Ideal size
- 2m - 2.8m
- Height multiplier
- 1.00×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- W (280°)
- Offshore range
- 250° - 320°
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at S-Turns?
The S-Turns profile favors low tide, ideally between 0.3m and 1m on the local tide chart. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at S-Turns?
The S-Turns profile uses wind from W (280°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 250° to 320°. Wind speed matters too: light winds outside that range can still produce surfable conditions, while strong offshore winds can make takeoffs difficult.
What swell size and direction work best at S-Turns?
The S-Turns scoring profile favors swell from E (70° to 150°), a swell-height range of 0.8m to 3.5m, and a reference period of 14s. These are model inputs, not guaranteed breaking-wave heights or a promise that the surf will suit every ability.
When is the best time of year to surf S-Turns?
The main season at S-Turns is Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar. A secondary window runs Aug. Hurricane swells can get epic here.
How do I get to S-Turns?
The spot profile lists ORF as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 100 minutes. Named for curves in Highway 12.
What kind of wave is S-Turns?
S-Turns is a beach break, a peak with lefts and rights. Difficulty is rated 5/10.
Best Season
Peak: Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Secondary: Aug
Hurricane swells can get epic here.
Getting There
Nearby Spots
Jennettes Pier
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Croatan Beach
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Virginia Beach First Street
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