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BEACH
DRIVING
Off-Road Vehicle Use in Cape
Hatteras National Seashore from U.S. Department of the
Interior National Park Service.
The
beaches of Cape Hatteras National Seashore are
attracting more visitors every year. One form of
recreation that is increasing in popularity is beach
driving. Driving on the dunes, however, has disastrous
effects, leaving the dunes bare to the winds and leading
to eventual dune destruction. Off-road vehicle users can
help ensure that this fragile ecosystem remains healthy
and strong with attractive stretches of beach available
for beach driving by following the regulations and
guidelines listed below.
Off-Road Driving Regulations*
Avoid
Damaging Vegetation:
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Enter and leave the beach only at designated numbered
ramps.
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Drive only on that portion of the beach which lies
between the foot of the dunes and the ocean.
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Do
not drive on or between the dunes, except on marked
ORV routes.
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Drive only on marked ORV routes west of NC Highway 12
(soundside).
Drive
Safely:
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The
speed limit is 25 mph on all beaches. Proceed with due
caution and have consideration for other beach users.
Seat belts are required for all front seat occupants
and recommended for rear seat passengers.
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Beach pedestrians ALWAYS have the right-of-way. Drive
slowly and detour around people lying, standing or
walking on the beach. Watch for fishing lines.
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Avoid overloading your vehicle with people. Do not
allow your passengers to sit on the tailgate or
rooftop, or otherwise stand or hang outside your
vehicle.
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No
open containers of alcoholic beverages allowed in
moving vehicles.
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No
public consumption, display or possession of
spirituous liquor or fortified wine is allowed in the
park.
Help
to Conserve the Beach and its Wildlife:
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Be
alert for and obey signs which indicate areas closed
to ORV use.
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Do
not drive or walk in posted bird nesting areas.
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Do
not drive or walk in posted turtle nesting areas.
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Pets
are required to be on a six-foot leash when on the
beach and elsewhere in the park.
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If
you carry it in, carry it OUT. Dispose of trash
properly, including fish parts and dead fish. Help
keep the beach clean.
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Fish
caught and not used should be returned to the water
alive.
Observe Vehicle Licensing Requirements:
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All
vehicles, including ATV's, must have a current
state-of-origin registration and valid license plate.
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The
operator must have a current driver's license.
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*
All regulations listed above are National Park Service
regulations and carry a maximum fine of $500 and/or
six (6) months imprisonment for violations.
* All
regulations listed above are National Park Service
regulations and carry a maximum fine of $500 and/or six
(6) months imprisonment for violations.
Guidelines for Beach Driving:
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Check weather forecast and tide tables before starting
your trip. Ask a ranger about current, constantly
changing beach conditions.
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Carry the following equipment: shovel, tire pressure
gauge, first-aid kit, spare tire, tow rope (at least
14 feet long with a load strength of 20,000 pounds),
litter bag, fire extinguisher, flashlight, and bumper
jack (with sturdy board to support jack).
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Two-wheel-drive vehicles are not recommended for beach
driving due to lack of adequate tire traction.
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Rangers are here to assist you, but they are not
permitted to pull or tow other vehicles. Commercial
towing services are limited and costly.
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Lower pressure in all tires to a recommended 20-25
pounds; the softer the sand, the lower the pressure
needed for better flotation. Inflate tires to normal
pressure as soon as possible after leaving the beach.
Low tire pressure can affect vehicle braking and
maneuverability on paved roads.
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Excessive speed endangers you, your vehicle, and
others using the beach. Experienced beach drivers know
that a slow, steady pace and correct tire pressure are
more effective than speed. If wheels start to spin,
back up in your tire tracks for several car lengths.
Accelerate slowly as you move forward. Sudden moves
are your worst enemy.
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Slow
down and allow additional space when passing or
meeting other vehicles, since steering on sand can be
difficult.
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Before driving through water, determine in advance its
depth and the firmness of its underlying surface.
Remember that salt water is highly corrosive.
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