Overview
Alabama Ave. is a sand-bottom beach and pier break in Kure Beach, sitting right at the border with Carolina Beach just to the north. Surfers spread out along the pier and the various beach accesses here, and the standout is the fun right that peels off the outflow pipe when the swell lines up. It picks up both rights and lefts. The quality is below average overall, but there are worthwhile options on the right days.
When It Works
The break draws swell from east-northeast through south-southeast, and south-southeast swell is the one that fires up the outflow-pipe right. It works from 0.9 m / 3 ft to 1.8 m / 6 ft. The season is storm-dependent: tropical cyclones through late summer and fall, then frontal activity from late fall through winter into spring.
Wind and Tide
Look for a west offshore wind, with a workable window running from west to west-northwest. It comes in on low and mid tide, and a rising tide is generally the better call.
Local Tips
The waves suit everyone from beginners to experts, and just about any board works, from shortboards and fish to longboards, SUPs, and bodyboards. Expect a fairly quiet lineup that can feel a little reserved. Paddling is normally straightforward, though south swells can kick up some current to deal with. Water quality is usually fine but can turn poor after heavy rain or a hurricane.
Access
Access is great, with plenty of free parking.
