Carolina Dunes, an ocean to sound community

How do I get to the beach?


Access #1 is on Buffell Head between Old Squaw and Sprigtail streets.

Access #2 is on Buffell Head between Canvasback & Wood Duck streets. It's handicapped accessible.

Access #3 is on Buffell Head between Pintail & Widgeon streets.

Help us protect the dunes by using the designated walkways and stairs to the beach. Please keep off the dunes!

Dogs on the beach


While the ocean beaches in Duck are considered to be dog-friendly, there is a Town ordinance that says dogs on the beach must be under 'immediate control' of their owner. According to the ordinance, 'immediate control' means the animal is within sight and sound of the owner and responds to audible commands of the owner.

Dog owners are asked to be sensitive to all people on the beach who are near them and to keep their pet under control so that everyone can equally enjoy the beach.

The Town also has an ordinance that requires dog owners to pick up any dog feces on the beach and dispose of it. No owner is allowed to bury feces in the sand.

Anybody on the beach who is concerned with a violation of these ordinances may contact the life guard (if one is on duty) or the Duck police.

For swimmer safety


Carolina Dunes is very fortunate to have outstanding lifeguard service. However, the ocean is still a dangerous environment without common sense precautions.

Lifeguards are stationed at Access #1 from May 1 through October 1, 10:00am to 6:00pm.

Red flags posted along the dunes mean “No Swimming!” because of dangerous rip tides or surf. Please observe!

Keep an eye on your children at all times. Rip tides can be present even when the ocean looks calm.

Please help us preserve our precious environment


Keep our beach and community litter free (USE THE TRASH CANS and RECYCLING CANS PROVIDED).

In-season trash pickup is early AM (usually before 9 AM) on Monday and Friday.

Recycling pickup is only on Monday AM.

After Labor Day and before Memorial Day trash pickup is on Monday only.

Trucks are automated and will not pick up any items left outside the cans. ONLY TRASH AND RECYCLING MATERIALS THAT ARE IN THE CANS WILL BE PICKED UP.

Put your cans out the evening BEFORE pickup.

Please bring the cans in under the house after pick-up. This is also for safety so that fire and EMS trucks have clear access on our streets.

Fire safety


Use of any and all fireworks is illegal, regardless of where you purchased them. You can be subject to a fine and mandatory court appearance if you use fireworks anywhere in Duck, including on the beach.

Beach fires are also prohibited.

Do not leave grills unattended and please – do not grill on the decks! Sparks fly in the wind even after coals appear to be cooled.

Do not park on the streets. Cars block access by fire and EMS personnel in emergencies.

In recent years, several houses have burned because of sparks flying from beach fires, fireworks, and grills. Please respect and protect all the homes in our community.

Duck Road Trail


To avoid car accidents, please enter Duck Road carefully. Runners and bicyclists will not be looking for you and often don’t stop at intersections.

Town of Duck Park


Performances and activities are free from April – October. Stop at the Fire-Police station on Duck Road and pick-up the current schedules. For more information on the Town of Duck's services, activities, and regulations, visit http://www.townofduck.com

Emergency Numbers


Fire, police, fireworks, or medical emergencies: Call 911

Police non-emergencies: Call 252-473-3444

Fire non-emergencies: Call 252-261-3929