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Just across the inlet from 1st Street is one of V.B.'s nicest neighborhoods and most frustrating waves. Croatan is a predominant left breaking off a wooden groin linked to a rock jetty. It's infamous for disappearing lips. Somewhere during a bottom turn on what appears to be a well-formed wedge, the top of the wave mysteriously vanishes, leaving one stranded atop the ghost of a wave.

Croatan does have its moments, specifically at high tide during a nor'easter. The jetty to the north offers some shelter from the wind, while bending the lefts into an occasionally punchy shorebreak. When it does get good, or on any sunny day, crowds flock. It has earned nicknames such as Croatnam, Crowded-tan and Kookatan for obvious reasons. While its sister 1st Street is normally a predictable, rolling wave, Croatan's shifting peaks make it an enigma. Therefore, an inexperienced crowd can be even more dangerous. It's not uncommon to be sitting on top of several surfers, waiting for that elusive wedge.

Croatan Beach is lined with million-dollar homes, whose owners have banded together to make it as difficult as possible for visitors to surf. Recent parking ordinances have made the trek to the beach a long one, but that has not decreased congestion in the lineup. Since Croatan is a neighborhood first and a surf spot second, residents have little use for public phones, showers or bathrooms. Bring your own bottled shower or you'll leave with sandy toes.