It's sad to have to start a topic as happy as beaches on a sour note, but we must say that the beach access on the Northern Beaches is a disgrace. Mile after mile of beaches are inaccessable due to a scheme by communities and home owners associations to keep the unwashed masses out. North Carolina law and centuries of legal practice recognize that the beach from the high tide mark to the water belongs to the public. However, the right of access to that public property is a matter of dispute. We own the beach, but can't get to it because of parking restrictions and the utter lack of places to cross the dunes. Literature on the Northern Beachs even goes so far as to claim they have private beaches.
We need to protest this arrangement at every opportunity. If it becomes too entrenched, we will loose the right of public access forever. Rest assured that your tax money goes towards maintaining the roads and providing the other services that allow people to live on the Northern Outer Banks. Also know that when the beach is threatened, the communities so distainful of the public will be looking towards public revenue to finance whatever type of beach erosion control is popular at the time. It happened just a few miles north at Sandbridge, in Virginia Beach. Don't let a priviledged few take what belongs to everyone. Write your elected officials and let them know where you stand.
On a happier note, it has been pointed out to us by our friends in the KH, KDH, and Nags Head area that those communities put a great deal of effort into keeping public access to the beach; we salute their efforts and sacrifices.
Yes, driving on the beach is a great thing, but there are some rules, most of which are little more that common sense. Don't forget that you will be driving a four wheel drive, not a tank. You can get stuck. It is expensive to be pulled out.
Rules
Tip: You need to deflate your tires some to get traction in the sand. 20 psi should work.
Areas