Riding the OBX Wave: A Look Back at Surfing's Roots on the Outer Banks
The Outer Banks isn’t just a top surfing destination on the East Coast—it is the East Coast’s surf capital. With shifting sandbars, favorable geography, and swells rolling in from multiple directions, this strip of paradise has earned its salty stripes. But have you ever wondered how it became the iconic surf destination it is today?
We recently read a fantastic deep dive from OuterBanksThisWeek.com called “Riding the Edge: How Surfing Took Root on the Outer Banks”, and if you’re into local history, waves, or beach culture, it's a must-read.
From Polynesia to Pea Island
Surfing’s OBX origin story goes way back to the 1920s when Hawaiian performers demonstrated wave riding in Manteo. Fast-forward to the 1950s and 60s, and the sport started to catch on locally, with pioneers like Bob Holland leading the charge—he even opened the Outer Banks’ first surf shop in 1969 and surfed into his 80s. Talk about dedication.
Shaping the Scene
Surfing here isn’t just a sport—it’s a way of life. The article highlights a rich history of board shapers and surf shop legends. From WRV and Natural Art to Secret Spot and Outer Surf, the Outer Banks surf industry was built by locals and has helped raise generations of riders. Many of these shops are still going strong, and some of the shapers are still handcrafting boards today.
Surf Culture & Competitions
From grassroots contests like the Throwdown Surf Classic to world-class events like the WRV Outer Banks Pro and ESA Easterns at Jennette’s Pier, the Outer Banks surf calendar is packed with energy and tradition. Surfers from around the world and right here on the OBX show up to compete, cheer, and celebrate the wave-riding lifestyle.
More Than Just Waves
What really stands out is that surfing here is not just about chasing the perfect break—it’s about community, nature, and legacy. Organizations like the Surfrider Foundation, all-girls surf clubs, family-run surf shops, and community events prove that surfing on the OBX is about more than the sport. It’s about connection—to the ocean and to one another.
Want the full story? Read the full article by Molly Harrison on OuterBanksThisWeek.com. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or just curious about the culture, it’s a great look at how the Outer Banks became a surf legend.