Known for turbulent seas and nasty weather systems, the same stormy conditions that make the Outer Banks "the Graveyard of the Atlantic" are also responsible for creating one of the East Coast's premiere surfing spots. And while the area's legendary pirates set sail long ago, equally voracious watermen pillage the Outer Banks to hoard what many residents consider to be its most precious – seemingly endless bounty of waves.

The Outer Banks offers the best of what surfing can be: good, consistent waves and a friendly vibe–the perfect combo for a first-time surfer. Just be careful, as several important rules will ensure the safety of yourself and those around you. First, never surf or swim alone, since drowning is possible in even the calmest of seas. If the water is rough, don't surf until conditions calm down, and always watch for riptides and undertows.

No matter the conditions, it's best for beginners to start with a boogie board or soft surfboard, since novices "wipeout" more in the early stages. As you get used to surfing, you'll soon feel ready for a "real" board made of foam and fiberglass. Longboards are more stable, making it easier to catch waves and stand up; but kids often learn faster, so be prepared to find something smaller and more maneuverable. Luckily, plenty of surf shops stand ready to rent or sell you a board, but be honest about your abilities so they can help find the perfect ride. And if you're thinking of purchasing one, don't be scared to buy used or ask about the new, space-age materials that are more ding-resistant and likely to last longer.

Perhaps your most important piece of equipment is a leash, which tethers the board to your ankle; not only is it easier to reach after a fall, the board won't wash away and injure someone else. And never use a life vest. The best way to escape a wave's turbulence is to push under it and personal flotation devices only make ducking a wave impossible and more dangerous.

Another good tip is to sign up for a surf lesson. Once again, local shops offer everything from group programs that cover the basics, to intensive one-on-one training. Local surfers are also generally nice and willing to offer advice, but to avoid any conflicts, it is important to remember etiquette, which can be summed up in three simple rules:

1. Don't get in anyone's way. This includes:
a) not dropping in on a wave that's already being ridden; and b) not paddling into a surfer's path.
2. In a situation where two people are paddling for the same wave, the person closest to the peak of the wave has priority. Make sure you are aware of others paddling for waves and what direction they plan to go (e.g. right or left, from the perspective of facing the beach).
3. Never let go of your board.

At first, it's tough to concentrate on riding the wave and everyone around you, so the best way to surf safely is to avoid crowded spots. Fortunately, the Outer Banks is an endless supply of peaking sandbars, so you can simply walk away from where people are. But while you want to avoid a teeming throng, still remain close enough so people will notice if you happen to need help.

No matter where you're staying, every inch of Outer Banks coast has potential to produce quality surf: the northern beaches of Corolla and Duck generally break softer and are better for beginners; from Kitty Hawk through Nags Head they begin to grow bigger and more advanced; while Hatteras Island spots from Rodanthe south are known for their board-breaking power. Although not recommended for novices, a small day in these spots could provide an elusive "tube-ride", allowing you to pull into the pocket of a breaking wave and ride behind a shiny curtain of water. Also known as "getting barreled", to successfully navigate a tube-ride is the sensation every surfer lusts after.

No matter the spot, the best way to enjoy surfing is to score a relaxing session, swapping rides and hooting for friends. Cruising across a peeling wave is an almost spiritual experience. And with a little effort, you'll find building a lasting relationship with the ocean isn't so difficult; in fact, it's way tougher to stop.

By Matt Walker