Dawn patrol surfing in Buxton

Buxton, North Carolina

Sunrise and first light times for planning your dawn patrol session.

First light in Buxton means glass, empty peaks, and the best conditions of the day before thermal onshores build. These 1 spots are worth the 5am alarm.

Sunrise

6:54 AM
First Light: 6:24 AM

Day length: 12h 27m

+2 min vs yesterday

Sunrise

6:54 AM

First light: 6:24 AM

Sunset

7:21 PM

Last light: 7:51 PM

Data from Cape Hatteras Lighthouse · Updated daily

7-Day Sun Schedule

Today(Today)

Sunrise

6:54 AM

Sunset

7:21 PM

Day Length

12h 27m

Tomorrow

Sunrise

6:52 AM

Sunset

7:22 PM

Day Length

12h 30m

Wed, Apr 1

Sunrise

6:51 AM

Sunset

7:23 PM

Day Length

12h 32m

Thu, Apr 2

Sunrise

6:50 AM

Sunset

7:24 PM

Day Length

12h 34m

Fri, Apr 3

Sunrise

6:48 AM

Sunset

7:24 PM

Day Length

12h 36m

Best dawn patrol spots in Buxton

Dawn patrol access guide for Buxton

Parking and access info for early morning sessions before sunrise.

At Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, jetties and sandbars focus Atlantic swells into one of the most powerful waves on the East Coast. Long, ripable lefts and dredging tubes break over shifting sandbars by the groins. The wave is fast and heavy with strong currents, making it suitable for advanced surfers only.

Early access

Follow the boardwalk from the parking lot and walk toward the metal groins. Beware of slippery rocks when crossing the jetty.

Parking

Parking is available at the lighthouse lot; off‑season you can drive on the beach with a permit. Arrive early on good swells as the area fills quickly.

Dawn patrol tips

  • Glassy morning conditions before onshore winds
  • Less crowded lineups at sunrise
  • East-facing beaches for sunrise views
  • Spots with easy parking for early arrivals

Surf Guides for Buxton

Frequently Asked Questions

About surfing in Buxton

Dawn patrol in Buxton typically starts at first light, around 30 minutes before sunrise. This gives you the glassiest conditions before onshore winds develop.
Early morning offers glassy conditions, fewer crowds, and calmer winds. Water temperature is also warmer relative to air temperature at sunrise.

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