Wrightsville Beach is one of the east coast’s most popular destinations for surfers and kiteboarding enthusiasts. For decades, visitors and residents alike have graced this beautiful area to enjoy the thrills of outdoor water sports. If you’re considering a kiteboarding excursion or a surfing getaway, be sure to familiarize yourself with the local regulations and safety guidelines.
Here’s a quick rundown of the do’s and don’ts when it comes to surfing and kiteboarding in Wrightsville:
Surfing Regulations
- 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 500 feet of Johnnie Mercer’s Fishing Pier (between Beach Access # 15 & #16)
- Within 100 feet of Crystal Pier at Oceanic Restaurant (between Beach Access #36 & #37)
- Within 100 feet of the Masonboro Inlet Jetty (between Beach Access #42 & #43)
- 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 than 750 feet. Surfing is prohibited in these areas whenever lifeguards are on duty. Lifeguard stands are normally staffed from 10 AM to 5 PM, but these hours may be extended when the beach is busy
- “No Surfing” areas will be clearly marked with black and white flags.
- Additional “No Surfing” areas may be found at other locations due to weather conditions, beach population, special events, etc. These areas will also be marked with black and white flags.
- Reckless surfing that endangers another person is prohibited.
Kiteboarding Regulations
- 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.
- Kiteboarders shall enter and exit the water via the multi-use areas outside of the “No Surfing” areas.
- Kiteboarders must enter and exit the water in a safe, controlled manner, taking in to account wind speed and direction.
- Always have an experienced kiteboarder assist you with launching and landing, or use a secure anchor.
- Kiteboarders must acknowledge and obey directions from lifeguards.
- Always yield the right of way to swimmers and pedestrians.
- 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.
- Anyone kiteboarding in a reckless manner will be asked to leave the beach.
If you are unclear on any of these guidelines or regulations, please contact the Town of Wrightsville Beach at 910.256.7900 or visit their website here: www.townofwrightsvillebeach.com