Heading to the soundside is a different beach experience. The sound is usually warmer, calmer and shallower than the ocean. Still, the sound is affected by wind for depth and turbulence, so a mean southwest wind can whip up some waves, though they won't really rival ocean waves. Because the sound is typically very shallow, even far from shore, you'll often see kayakers, kiteboarders and windsurfers in the sound. Wading in the sound on calm days is ideal for small children, who are often overwhelmed by the noisy ocean. There are no lifeguards on the sound side in Kill Devil Hills, so use caution when swimming or wading, and don't let the little ones out of your sight.
A sound access with parking, pier and picnic area is:
Hayman Boulevard Estuarine
Kill Devil Hills Attractions | Kitty Hawk Attractions | Nags Head Attractions
