Discreet nude bathing has long been common in remote areas of the Outer Banks, the collective name of the long chain of barrier islands off the northern coast of North Carolina. However, the islands of the Outer Banks extend over 150 miles, and there are no really well-established, well-defined areas of nude use.

The beach at Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge (PINWR) seems to get a bit more nude use than other remote areas. PINWR occupies the northern third of Hatteras Island. (Despite the name, Pea Island is not its own island. It is part of Hatteras.) The refuge extends about 13 miles from Oregon Inlet (which separates Hatteras from Bodie Island) south to the village of Rodanthe, and you may encounter a scattering of nude bathers anywhere in this area where there aren't crowds of textiles.

It seems that the most popular gathering place for nudists is the area south of the New Inlet boat launch. Ranger patrols are infrequent, but you should cover up if you see a ranger to avoid the possibility of getting a ticket for nudity. There are no facilities or services at the beach, so bring everything with you. The nearest services are in Rodanthe. Wherever you choose to get naked, make sure it is well away from any public access points. While PINWR is closed to off-road traffic, off roading is allowed on other parts of Hatteras Island (but be sure to check locally for locations and restrictions). Nudists with off-road vehicles often choose to drive along the beach to remote areas.

GPS: 35.6600, -75.4750

city, county, state, country  Rodanthe, Dare, North Carolina, U.S.A.

classification  3 (discretion recommended)

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