The jetty waters are always occupied on hot afternoons ... Veer into the dirt parking strip directly in front of the surf spot.

Northern Jetties is pretty similar to its southern, sandy counterpart, Surfside. Both bustle with activity in the summer and are loaded with beachside perks like food carts and public bathrooms.

Croatan does have its moments, specifically at high tide during a nor'easter. The jetty to the north offers some shelter from the wind, while bending the lefts into an occasionally punchy shorebreak.