Ocracoke Island

Ocracoke Island's lagoon system presents a protected shallow-water kitesurfing environment on the western side of the barrier island. The spot features a south-facing coastline with extensive shallow flats and sandy bottom typical of North Carolina's Outer Banks lagoon system. The protected waters offer relatively calm conditions with minimal wave development, making this primarily a flat-water spot suitable for freestyle and light wind sessions. Best conditions occur with easterly winds (90°) that blow side-shore parallel to the coast. The low wind reliability of 35% and modest average wind speeds of 10.8 knots mean this spot works best during seasonal wind events rather than consistent daily conditions. The shallow lagoon environment suits beginners and intermediates seeking protected water without significant swell or complex wave dynamics. Key considerations include monitoring tidal flows, avoiding shallow sandbars that shift seasonally, and being aware of the limited fetch distance which restricts wind acceleration. The spot's accessibility and calm characteristics make it valuable during conditions too light or choppy for ocean-side spots.