Wind Days = % of days with 12–35 knot average wind speed (ideal kiting conditions). Based on 6 years of historical weather data.
11%
Avg Wind Days
year-round
8.1kts
Avg Wind
year-round
18°
Avg Temp
6yrs
Data History
analyzed
Spot Overview
🌊
Open OceanSpot Type
IntermediateSkill Level
E90°Best Wind
Exposed to open sea with waves and stronger conditions
About This Spot
Cape Hatteras is a prominent Atlantic Ocean break located on North Carolina's Outer Banks, where the coastline faces north into the Atlantic. The spot sits at a major geographic transition point with significant tidal influence and shifting sandbars. Water conditions are typically rough chop with average waves around 1.3m, indicating exposed ocean fetch with limited shelter. The area experiences moderate wind reliability at 10.7% with average winds of 8.1 knots, suggesting inconsistent conditions. Best wind direction is easterly to maintain side-shore conditions relative to the north-facing coast. This spot suits intermediate kiters who can handle choppy water and navigation challenges. Key considerations include monitoring tidal currents, avoiding shallow sandbars, and respecting the exposed Atlantic conditions. The location's historical navigation hazards and shipping traffic require situational awareness. Water temperatures average around 18°C, requiring seasonal consideration for thermal protection.
Hazards & Safety
Strong currents from Atlantic tidal influence
Shallow sandbars and shifting bottom topography
High boat traffic in shipping lanes
Diamond Shoals offshore - submerged hazards
Rough chop conditions reducing visibility
Strong tidal flows through Cape inlet
Live Wind Forecast
Real-time wind conditions and 10-day forecast powered by ECMWF
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Wind speeds shown in knots (kt). Tap expand for full-screen view. Forecast updates every 6 hours from European weather model.
Water Conditions
Historical ocean data for wetsuit planning & water type
21°C
Avg Water Temp
1.3m
Avg Waves
⚠️ Rough Chop
Typical Conditions
🧥 5/4mm Fullsuit
Typical Wetsuit
Challenging chop, experienced riders
Wind Characteristics
SWDominant Direction
Very GustyChallenging conditions, advanced only
Best Time to Kite
Wind reliability by time of day (average across all months)
Morning
6am – 12pm
15%wind days
Best
Afternoon
12pm – 6pm
22%wind days
Evening
6pm – 9pm
15%wind days
Monthly Breakdown
Historical averages based on 6 years of data
Month
Wind Days
Avg Wind
Temp
Water
Best Time
Rain
Jan
15%
9kts
9°feels 5°
14°
PM
~9d
Feb
16%
9kts
11°feels 8°
14°
PM
~8d
Mar
20%
9kts
14°feels 12°
Monthly Water Conditions
Plan your wetsuit and know what to expect in the water