North Carolina Buoy Stations & Wave Data

30 buoy stations along the North Carolina coast, with 14 currently reporting live data. Data via NOAA NDBC.

NOAA's comprehensive coverage across North Carolina provides reliable wave data, and proper buoy data interpretation ensures you extract maximum value from these observations.

30 Total Stations
14 Reporting Now
16 Inactive
NOAA NDBC Data Partner

All North Carolina Wave Monitoring Stations

Station 41025

Diamond Shoals, NC

Station 44100

Duck FRF 26m, NC (430)

Station 44056

Duck FRF, NC

Station 41013

Frying Pan Shoals, NC

Station 41110

Masonboro Inlet, ILM2, NC (150)

Station 44086

Nags Head, NC (243)

Station 41159

Onslow Bay Outer, NC (217)

Station 41064

Onslow Bay Outer, NC (LEJ3)

Station 41082

OOI Pioneer - Mid-Atlantic Bight Central Surface Mooring

Station 44095

Oregon Inlet, NC (192)

Station 41024

Sunset Nearshore, NC (SUN2)

Station 41108

Wilmington Harbor, NC - (200)

Station 41038

Wrightsville Beach Nearshore, NC (ILM2)

Station 41037

Wrightsville Beach Offshore, NC (ILM3)

Part of region

South Atlantic View regional overview

Neighboring states

Virginia 25 stationsSouth Carolina 23 stations

About North Carolina Wave Monitoring Network

The North Carolina wave monitoring network consists of 30 strategically positioned buoy stations that provide comprehensive coverage of coastal conditions. These stations are operated by trusted organizations including NOAA NDBC, ensuring reliable and accurate data for various marine applications.

For Surfers

  • Real-time wave height and swell period data
  • Wind wave direction for optimal surf timing
  • Historical patterns for seasonal planning
  • Multiple coastal regions for spot comparison

For Mariners

  • Sea state conditions for safe navigation
  • Wave forecasting for trip planning
  • Real-time marine weather updates
  • Comprehensive coastal coverage

For Researchers

  • Long-term wave climate data
  • Coastal erosion monitoring
  • Ocean-atmosphere interaction studies
  • High-quality validated datasets

Whether you're checking surf conditions for your next session, planning a maritime expedition, or conducting oceanographic research, the North Carolina buoy network provides the comprehensive wave data you need for informed decision-making along the coast.