Morning Beach Conditions

May 4, 2026

MODERATE rip current risk and cold water temperatures that will lead to hypothermia at all ocean beaches today from Duck to Ocracoke. Only experienced surf swimmers who know how to escape a rip current should enter the water wearing thermal protection. Never swim alone, always take flotation!

Strongest rip currents often occur a couple hours either side of low tide, which is around 3: 40 pm today.

Expect sunny skies today, temperatures in the low 70s. Southwest winds 10 to 15 mph. Surf height 2 to 3 feet. Water temperatures: Duck Pier...58. Oregon Inlet Marina...59. Avon Pier...59.

Ocean Rescue staffing is at off season levels, with beaches covered by a roving patrol. If help is needed, know your location and call 911!

Check out videos and beach safety information featuring Dare County locals.

These short videos feature OBX lifeguards, surf photographers and pro surfers.

Image of a young man on the beach running into the ocean in the Outer Banks with his surfboard

Local Tips

Image of a lifeguard station in the Outer Banks.

Find a Lifeguard

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If you have signed up for text alerts and would like to be unsubscribed, you can text “STOP” to 77295. Texting “START” will resume / reinstate the alert messages. Message and data rates may apply.

Morning Beach Conditions

May 4, 2026

Want to manage your alert preferences? Check out this video. If you have signed up for text alerts and would like to be unsubscribed, you can text “STOP” to 77295. Texting “START” will resume / reinstate the alert messages.​ Message and data rates may apply.

Want to manage your alert preferences? Check out this video.

If you have signed up for text alerts and would like to be unsubscribed, you can text “STOP” to 77295. Texting “START” will resume / reinstate the alert messages. Message and data rates may apply.