News Release

Cape Hatteras National Seashore extends length of 2020 lifeguard season at three popular beaches

Lifeguard stand at Coquina Beach Access on Bodie Island.

News Release Date: September 2, 2020

Contact: Michael Barber, 252-475-9032

As a result of increased late summer tourism to the Outer Banks, Cape Hatteras National Seashore (Seashore) will offer lifeguard services through the end of September at three lifeguard beaches.

This year’s lifeguard season, originally scheduled from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, is extended through Wednesday, September 30 at Coquina Beach Access (Bodie Island), Frisco Beach Access (Hatteras Island), and Ocracoke Beach Access (Ocracoke Island).

“Lifeguard beaches are the safest places to swim along the Seashore,” stated David Hallac, Superintendent, National Parks of Eastern North Carolina. “We are pleased to provide an extended lifeguard season at three of the Seashore’s most-visited beaches.”

Lifeguards are on duty seven days a week from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Beach in Buxton will continue life-guarding services through September 7.

Whether swimming at a lifeguard beach or entering the Atlantic Ocean elsewhere along the Seashore, it is important for visitors to check the daily rip current forecast at www.weather.gov/beach/mhx. Visitors can also sign up for ocean safety text messages by texting ‘Join OBXBeachConditions’ to 30890. Text ‘STOP’ to 30890 to stop receiving messages.