Surfing & Kiteboarding

Surfer
General
To help ensure the safety of all beach patrons, surfers must be securely attached to their board with a “leash.”
Surfing is always prohibited in the following areas:
  • Within 350 feet of Johnnie Mercer’s Fishing Pier (between Beach Access No. 15 and No. 16)
  • Within 350 feet of Crystal Pier at Oceanic Restaurant (between Beach Access No. 36 and No. 37)
  • Within 100 feet of the Masonboro Inlet Jetty (between Beach Access No. 42 and No. 43)
Schedule
From Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, surfing is prohibited in areas located in front of each lifeguard stand. The length of these “No Surfing” areas will be no less than 600 feet and no greater that 750 feet. Surfing is prohibited in these areas whenever lifeguards are on duty. Lifeguard stands are normally staffed from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., but these hours may be extended when the beach is busy. “No Surfing” areas will be clearly marked with flags. Reference the provided figure.
No surfing between black and white flags
The locations of the “No Surfing” areas associated with lifeguard stands are shown in blue on the following map.
Lifeguard stands on map of beach and shore
Additional “No Surfing” areas may be posted on other locations due to weather conditions, beach population, special events, etc. These areas will also be marked with flags as shown.

Surfers are reminded to respect the “space” of other beach patrons. Reckless surfing that endangers another person is prohibited.

For more information about surfing at Wrightsville Beach, check with a lifeguard.

Kiteboarding Guidelines
  • When the checkered flags designating No Surfing areas in front of lifeguard stands are posted, kiteboarders shall stay at least 100 yards offshore from these areas. Some no Surfing areas in the middle of the island are extensive. It is your responsibility to know appropriate areas for kiteboarding.
  • Kiteboarders shall enter and exit the water via the multi-use areas outside of the No Surfing areas. Kiteboarders shall enter and exit the water in a safe and controlled manner. Consider wind direction and beach population when selecting a safe entry/exit point.
  • Always have an experienced kiteboarder assist you with launching and landing, or use a secure anchor.
  • Kiteboarders will acknowledge and obey directions from lifeguards. Whistle blasts and universal hand signals will be used.
  • Always yield the right of way to swimmers and pedestrians.
  • No jumping on the beach with a kiteboard kite.
  • Always respect other kiteboarders, on and off the water.
  • When not in use, secure your kite with sand and roll up your bar and lines.
  • Always store unused gear up near the dunes and keep the beach clear of excess equipment.
  • Remember that perception is reality. If it looks unsafe, then it is unsafe.
  • Anyone kiteboarding in a reckless manner will be asked to leave the beach. Reckless kiteboarders can be prosecuted under NC General Statutes, and they may lose their privileges to kiteboard at Wrightsville Beach.
Town of Wrightsville Beach Ordinance §92.12 (PDF) pertains to kiteboarding.