Rudee Inlet
Rudee Inlet: Virginia Beach's hub for thrilling water sports, consistent surfing, and scenic rock formations. Your adventure starts here!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better for activities
Rudee Inlet
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better for activities
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Rudee Inlet: Virginia Beach's hub for thrilling water sports, consistent surfing, and scenic rock formations. Your adventure starts here!
"A beautiful place to visit with striking rock formations and consistent surf."
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
Remember to pay for parking in the designated lot before enjoying the boardwalk or activities. :parking:
🏄♀️ Surfing vs. Swimming
The beach by the inlet is for surfing only. Swimming is a short walk away. :surfer:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Surfing the Inlet Jetty
Croatan Side of the Inlet
Experience consistent waves at this popular surfing spot, but be prepared for crowds. Not ideal for beginners.
Banana Boat Thrills
Waterfront Activity Centers
Hold on tight for an exhilarating ride! A fun, adrenaline-pumping activity for groups and families.
Fishing Adventures
Inlet Exit and Jetties
Cast a line and try your luck! Popular for shore fishing and the starting point for deep-sea excursions.
Scenic Rock Formations
Entrance to the Inlet
Admire the striking rock jetties that frame the inlet, offering unique views from both sides.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Rudee Inlet
Navigating Rudee Inlet Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
Remember to pay for parking in the designated lot before enjoying the boardwalk or activities. :parking:
🏄♀️ Surfing vs. Swimming
The beach by the inlet is for surfing only. Swimming is a short walk away. :surfer:
🎣 Shore Fishing Hotspots
Many people fish at the inlet exit and along the jetties. Great for a casual fishing experience. :fishingpoleand_வத:
🚤 Book Water Sports Ahead
For jet skiing and parasailing, booking in advance is recommended, especially during busy times. :boat:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
Remember to pay for parking in the designated lot before enjoying the boardwalk or activities. :parking:
🏄♀️ Surfing vs. Swimming
The beach by the inlet is for surfing only. Swimming is a short walk away. :surfer:
🎣 Shore Fishing Hotspots
Many people fish at the inlet exit and along the jetties. Great for a casual fishing experience. :fishingpoleand_வத:
🚤 Book Water Sports Ahead
For jet skiing and parasailing, booking in advance is recommended, especially during busy times. :boat:
🦽 Boardwalk Accessibility
Enjoy a walk or bike ride on the boardwalk; it's a great way to see the inlet. :bike:
🌊 Respect Jetty Safety
Stay off the rock jetty for your safety. It's a popular surfing area. :warning:
🐬 Keep an eye out for Manatees
There have been sightings of manatees in the area, so keep an eye out! :dolphin:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the variety of activities at Rudee Inlet, from thrilling banana boat rides and jet skiing to scenic walks on the boardwalk. The striking rock formations are a visual highlight, and the consistent surf draws many. While parking has a fee and the surfing beach isn't for beginners, the overall experience is highly positive, with friendly staff enhancing the fun.
"Went on the banana boat, this is not for the weak but I conquered it! You have to hang on for dear life the whole time but was fun and good for a group or family experience! Super nice staff!"
Kelly Frias
"Great experience, they were very accommodating for both jet skiing and parasailing. Definitely recommend them to anyone looking to have a great time."
Christian Patten
"Pay to park in the lot. Great kids park. Go for a walk or bike ride on the boardwalk. The beach out front is a surfing area only. Swimmig is a short walk. Stay off the rock jetty. This is the most consistent place to surf in VB and it gets crowded if there is even a rumor of a swell. Don't plan on learning to surf here."
Brian S Bicep
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Rudee Inlet is located in Virginia Beach, Virginia. It's easily accessible by car, with a large parking lot available. Public transportation options might be limited, so driving is often the most convenient way to reach the area.
Yes, there is a large parking lot at Rudee Inlet. However, be aware that there is a fee to park here.
The boardwalk at Rudee Inlet is perfect for walking or biking, offering scenic views of the water and surrounding area.
Exploring Rudee Inlet can be done by walking the boardwalk, participating in water sports, or going fishing. The rock formations on either side offer unique viewpoints.
Yes, restrooms are available at Rudee Inlet, making it convenient for visitors spending a longer time enjoying the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Rudee Inlet itself is generally free, but activities like jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides will require separate bookings and fees. Parking also incurs a fee.
Operating hours for water sports vendors at Rudee Inlet can vary depending on the season and specific company. It's best to check with individual operators for their current schedules.
Parking at Rudee Inlet is paid. The exact cost can vary, so it's advisable to check signage upon arrival or inquire with local information sources.
Yes, booking popular water sports activities like jet skiing and parasailing in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
While Rudee Inlet itself is accessible, the specific beach areas may have different access rules or fees. The beach directly by the inlet is for surfing, while swimming areas might be designated elsewhere.
🎫 🎣 Fishing & Water Sports
Rudee Inlet is popular for both shore fishing, especially from the exit and jetties, and as a departure point for deep-sea fishing charters. Kayak fishing is also an option.
While people are seen fishing near the jetties, it's important to note that the rock jetty itself is primarily a surfing area and can be dangerous. Exercise caution and adhere to safety guidelines.
Popular water sports include jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides. These are typically offered by various vendors operating from the inlet.
Yes, Rudee Inlet can be a good spot for paddleboarding, with areas like Owl Creek launch offering access. You might see fish and crabs. Keep an eye out for manatees!
Absolutely! Rudee Inlet is a major hub for deep-sea fishing charters, offering excursions for various types of fishing trips.
📸 📸 Photography & Scenery
The rock formations on either side of the inlet offer dramatic views. The boardwalk provides a great vantage point, and the surfing action on the Croatan side is also photogenic.
Yes, Rudee Inlet is considered a beautiful place to visit, particularly noted for its striking rock formations that frame the entrance.
The Croatan side is known for its surfing, while the other side features the boardwalk. Each offers a distinct view and experience.
Yes, the inlet is a consistent surfing spot, and you can often capture great action shots of surfers, especially on the Croatan side.
Late afternoons often provide beautiful lighting, known as the 'golden hour,' which can enhance the scenic beauty of Rudee Inlet.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families interested in fishing, shore fishing opportunities are available, and charter boats can often accommodate younger anglers. It's a good idea to check with activity providers about age restrictions and suitability for children when booking jet skiing or parasailing. The presence of restrooms also adds to the convenience for families.
🎣 Fishing Enthusiasts
For those seeking a more hands-on experience, kayak fishing Rudee Inlet offers a unique way to explore the waters and access prime fishing spots. Even if you're new to fishing, the accessible shore fishing and the availability of charters make it easy to get started. Remember to check local fishing regulations and licensing requirements before you cast your line.
🏄♀️ Surfers and Water Sports Fans
Beyond surfing, Rudee Inlet is a hub for adrenaline-pumping water sports like jet skiing and parasailing. These activities offer thrilling perspectives of the coastline and are highly recommended for those seeking excitement. Booking these in advance is a smart move, especially during peak season, to ensure you don't miss out.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Fishing at Rudee Inlet
For a more adventurous experience, Rudee Inlet is a major hub for deep-sea fishing charters. These charters provide access to offshore fishing grounds where you can target larger game fish. Companies like the Rudee Angler and Rudee Fishing Center are well-known options for booking these excursions. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, there are options for everyone, including kayak fishing Rudee Inlet for a more intimate connection with the water.
When planning your fishing trip, consider the local regulations and any necessary licenses. The Rudee Inlet fishing scene is vibrant, with many locals and tourists alike enjoying the bounty of the Atlantic. Remember to check the tides and weather conditions for the best fishing success.
Water Sports and Activities
For group fun, the banana boat ride is a must-try. While described as 'not for the weak,' it promises an unforgettable, adrenaline-fueled experience where hanging on for dear life is part of the adventure. It's a fantastic option for families and groups looking for shared excitement.
Beyond the high-octane activities, paddleboarding is also a growing trend at Rudee Inlet. Launching from areas like Owl Creek, you can explore the calmer waters, observe marine life like fish and crabs, and even keep an eye out for occasional manatee sightings.
The Unique Landscape of Rudee Inlet
On one side of the inlet, you'll find the Croatan Side, which is renowned as one of the most consistent surfing spots in Virginia Beach. This area attracts surfers of all levels, though it can get crowded when there's even a hint of a swell. It's important to note that this is not an ideal spot for learning to surf due to the conditions and crowds.
The other side of the inlet features the Boardwalk, a pleasant area for leisurely strolls or bike rides. This provides a different, more relaxed perspective of the inlet and its surroundings. The contrast between the active surf zone and the tranquil boardwalk makes Rudee Inlet a visually diverse and engaging destination.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit