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. The nearest beach driving is at Ramps 23 and 25, a few minutes south at Salvo.
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 quick access to beach driving (Ramps 23 and 25 are a few minutes south), 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 at the north end of town — surfers walk on, since there is no beach driving at the break
- Visit the Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station for live demonstrations (Wed/Thu in summer)
- Fish from Rodanthe Pier ($15 adult day pass) — one of two fishing piers on Hatteras Island, with Avon Pier
- 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 in north Rodanthe, near the S-Turns, 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?
Is the ‘Nights in Rodanthe’ house still standing?
Can I surf at S-Turns without a beach driving permit?
What’s the Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station?
Is Rodanthe a good base for beach driving on OBX?
Where to Camp in Rodanthe
Beach driving is a day activity — you still need somewhere to sleep. For RV parks, campgrounds, and full-hookup options in Rodanthe and nearby villages, see Tri-Villages Camping on OBX RV. Surf-fishing this trip? Pair with the Tri-Villages ramp guide.
Rodanthe Beach Driving Tips: Making the Most of Ramps 23 and 25
Rodanthe beach driving offers some of the most diverse conditions on Hatteras Island. Here’s what to know about each ramp:Ramp 23 Details
Ramp 23 is a combined pedestrian and ORV access ramp in front of and just south of Salvo. From October 15 to April 14 it gives vehicles access to the village beaches, which run north to just south of the Rodanthe Pier; the rest of the year it is for walkers only. The beach here is typically firm and wide, especially at low tide. It is busiest during the fall fishing season. Arrive early on weekends to secure a good parking spot in the ramp staging area.Ramp 23 is subject to seasonal wildlife closures. During spring and early summer, portions of the beach near the ramp may be closed for piping plover nesting. Check the NPS website for current closure status before making the drive.Ramp 25 Details
Ramp 25 is just south of Salvo and is open to vehicles year-round, with a separate boardwalk for walkers. The beach south of Ramp 25 runs toward Ramp 27, a long stretch of mostly uncrowded beach driving. In summer, when Ramp 23 is closed to vehicles, Ramp 25 is the closest place to Rodanthe to drive onto the sand.The S-Turns: What Every OBX Beach Driver Needs to Know
The S-Turns is a wave break at the north end of Rodanthe, near Mirlo Beach, famous for its powerful surf. The location gets its name from the S-curve in the old NC-12 highway that used to run along this section before erosion took the road. The Jug Handle Bridge now bypasses this area.For beach drivers, the key fact is that you cannot drive to it: the S-Turns is north of the Rodanthe Pier, outside the Seashore’s vehicle routes. Walk on, and keep these in mind:- Pedestrian traffic: Surfers and spectators congregate around the S-Turns, and the beach near the break can be very congested on good surf days. Arrive early on a good swell.
- Soft sand near the dune line: The walk over the old dune line can be deep, soft sand, so plan on carrying boards and gear through it.
- Erosion: The S-Turns area is one of the most erosion-prone stretches of Hatteras Island. The beach profile changes significantly season to season.
Things to See and Do in Rodanthe Beyond the Beach
Rodanthe is a small community with strong cultural identity tied to the beach and the sea. While most beach drivers focus on the ramp access, there are several noteworthy stops in the Rodanthe area:- Hatteras Island Surf & Kite: A legendary watersports outfitter in Waves (just south of Rodanthe) offering surfboard and kiteboarding rentals, instruction, and gear. Also a great source of local knowledge about current wave and wind conditions.
- The “Nights in Rodanthe” house: The iconic red house featured in the 2008 Nicholas Sparks film was actually in Rodanthe. The house has since been relocated, but the Rodanthe area draws fans of the film.
- Sound-side kayaking: Multiple outfitters near Rodanthe offer kayak and paddleboard rentals for accessing the Pamlico Sound. The sound-side behind Rodanthe is particularly good for wind sports.
- Local seafood: Rodanthe has several local seafood restaurants and fish markets where fresh-caught OBX seafood is available during season.