Every answer on this site is on a public sign, marker, or structure. You never need to enter the water, climb a dune, or step onto private property.
In the car
The driver drives. A passenger reads clues, navigates, and types answers.
Park only in marked public lots. Lots fill by 10–11 a.m. in summer; if a lot is full, the passenger reads the sign as you pass.
Never stop in a travel lane or on a shoulder of NC 12 (Beach Road) or US 158 (Bypass).
Cross roads only at crosswalks and intersections; walk kids across by the hand.
On the beach
Stay on walkways. Dunes, dune plants and sand fencing are protected and new plantings went in after the 2026 beach nourishment.
Rip currents. Check the National Weather Service rip current forecast and the warning flags at the access (yellow, red, double red; posted Memorial Day–Oct 15). Double red means the water is closed.
Lifeguard stands are staffed in summer; in the off-season there are none. These hunts are dry — no answer needs the water.
Ocean Rescue: (252) 480-2555. Emergency: 911.
Respect the places
The historic cottages and the fishing piers are private — look from public areas only.
The U.S.S. Huron wreck is a protected Historic Shipwreck Preserve: never take or disturb anything.