Rodanthe is the northernmost of the Tri-Villages on Hatteras Island and the first town you reach after crossing the new Jug Handle bridge from Pea Island. Famous for its surf breaks (S-Turns), the Rodanthe Pier, the historic Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station, and the ‘Nights in Rodanthe’ beach house, this is one of the most visited towns on Hatteras Island. Ramps 23 and 25 access wide beaches with classic OBX waves.
Quick Facts
| Location | Hatteras Island, northern Tri-Villages |
| ORV Ramps | 23, 25 |
| Permit | Cape Hatteras National Seashore ORV permit required |
| Famous For | S-Turns surf break, Rodanthe Pier, ‘Nights in Rodanthe’ house |
| Vibe | Surf town, more commercial than Salvo, popular vacation hub |
Map & Location
Why Rodanthe is Popular
Rodanthe combines accessible beach driving (Ramps 23 and 25), iconic surf, the historic Chicamacomico station, family-friendly amenities, and an unmistakable OBX character. It’s the first town you hit after the Pea Island stretch, so it’s a natural stopping point on the drive south. Vacation rentals and beach houses dominate; the famous ‘Nights in Rodanthe’ house has been moved twice due to erosion but still stands and is rentable.
Things to Do
- Surf S-Turns via Ramp 23 — drive to your peak on the beach
- Visit the Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station for live demonstrations (Wed/Thu in summer)
- Fish from Rodanthe Pier ($10/day) — the only working pier on Hatteras
- Eat at Lisa’s Pizzeria or Watermen’s Bar & Grill
- Beach drive Ramp 25 for less crowded sand than Ramp 23
Where to Stay
Mix of vacation rentals (dominant), a handful of motels (Hatteras Island Inn), and the famous ‘Nights in Rodanthe’ house. Oceanside rentals near Ramp 23 are popular for surfing trips. Sound-side rentals quieter and often cheaper.
Food & Supplies
Rodanthe has more options than Salvo or Waves but less than Avon. Small groceries (Surfside Market), gas stations, restaurants. Notable: Lisa’s Pizzeria (institution), Watermen’s Bar & Grill, Atlantic Coast Cafe (breakfast), and Top Dog Cafe (sandwiches).
Frequently Asked Questions
What ramps access Rodanthe beaches?
Ramp 23 (north Rodanthe) and Ramp 25 (south Rodanthe) both access the wide beaches of the Tri-Villages. Both require the Cape Hatteras National Seashore ORV permit. Ramp 23 is closer to S-Turns surf break.
Is the ‘Nights in Rodanthe’ house still standing?
Yes. After the 2008 film, the original ‘Serendipity’ house was moved inland to escape erosion. It’s now available as a vacation rental in Rodanthe. The location has changed but the building still exists.
Can I surf at S-Turns without a beach driving permit?
Yes — there’s some public beach parking, but it’s limited. A 4×4 with an ORV permit lets you drive to less-crowded peaks along the same break. Most serious S-Turns surfers use a 4×4.
What’s the Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station?
A historic U.S. Life-Saving Service station (predecessor to the Coast Guard) in Rodanthe. Now a museum with live demonstrations of historic rescue techniques on Wednesdays and Thursdays in summer. Free to enter; donations appreciated.
Is Rodanthe a good base for beach driving on OBX?
Yes for the northern Hatteras Island ramps. From Rodanthe you can reach Ramps 23, 25, 27, 30, and 32 within minutes. Cape Point (Ramp 44) is about 40 minutes south by 4×4. Choose Rodanthe if Tri-Villages ramps are your focus; choose Buxton if Cape Point is the priority.