After the Jug handle Bridge was opened back in July it was just a matter of time before the old roadbed that had been the S Curves would be removed. And not much time at all.
NCDOT just announced they have removed the last of the old roadbed and sandbags that were protecting it. All that is left is cleaning up some scraps of asphalt that may have been missed.
The right of way had always been a part of Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge, with US Fish and Wildlife allowing the use of the land as a transportation corridor. With the removal of the road, the area will revert to its natural state.
The S Curves, with it’s well-deserved reputation for outstanding conditions for surfers will still be accessible, although there is a considerable trek along the beach to get to the best break.
There is a parking lot on the north end of what was at one time the S Curves and there is nothing to prevent anyone from walking the beach. In fact, it’s encouraged with clearly marked paths leading from the parking lot to the beach. The better surfing areas are a mile to the south of the parking lot.
With the removal of the protection of the sandbags, it’s unclear what will happen along that stretch of beach. The same reason the surfing is so good there, is the same reason there is a very good possibility of an inlet forming just to the north of Rodanthe. Offshore underwater reefs focus the wave energy in that area.
The beach itself, it should be noted, is part of Cape Hatteras National Seashore. The beach at the high tide line from South Nags Head to Ocracoke is part of the National Park Service.
With the Jug Handle Bridge now open, Hatteras Island is more accessible than ever. At Brindley Beach Vacations we have homes from Corolla to Hatteras. Be sure to check out all that we have to offer and visit Hatteras Vacation Rentals to book online!