Two days on the most beautiful beaches in North Carolina — soccer, community, and the Outer Banks at its finest.
Register Your TeamHIFC families — Sand Soccer Showdown participation is included with individual Spring 2026 registrations! Club Directors will organize HIFC teams for the Showdown, so all you need to do is sign up for Spring programs through the HIFC website. From recreational leagues to competitive travel teams, HIFC has programs for every age group and skill level on Hatteras Island.
The Cape Hatteras Sand Soccer Showdown is back for its second year — and it's bigger, sandier, and more exciting than ever! Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, this weekend event combines the beautiful game with one of the most gorgeous beaches on the East Coast.
Whether you're a competitive player, casual fan, or lover of nature, this weekend has something special for everyone. Kick off Friday with a community beach clean-up, then head back to the beach on Saturday for a full day of sand soccer action. It's the perfect excuse for a weekend getaway to the Outer Banks!
Compete on the soft sands of the Outer Banks in an all-day tournament with divisions for all ages and skill levels. Experience the game like never before with the ocean as your backdrop.
Start the weekend by giving back. Join fellow players and community members on May 1st to help keep our beloved National Seashore pristine and beautiful for generations to come.
Spend the weekend exploring Cape Hatteras Island — world-class fishing, historic lighthouses, fresh seafood, and sunsets that will take your breath away.
Every division that pitches in on Friday, May 1st will be recognized for their efforts. We're honoring the teams and players who show up for the beach — and the community — with these special awards presented at the Saturday tournament.
As part of the Cape Hatteras Sand Soccer Showdown experience, we're thrilled to offer complimentary surfing lessons all day Saturday, May 2nd, courtesy of Endless Summer Surf OBX, led by Morgan O'Connell. Whether you've never touched a surfboard or just want to sharpen your skills, their professional instructors will get you up and riding on the legendary Outer Banks waves.
Lessons run on the half hour, every half hour throughout tournament day. Complimentary for tournament participants — first come, first serve. Reserve your spot in advance with an online reservation to guarantee your time slot.
Reserve Your Surf LessonEvent Partner
Hatteras Island has been one of the world's premier surf fishing destinations for generations — and now you can learn from the best. In partnership with the NC Beach Buggy Association (NCBBA) and sponsored by Fish Bites, we're offering complimentary surf fishing lessons for kids right at the event.
Kids are invited to a nearby tent mid-day on Saturday, May 2nd to learn the basics of surf fishing — one of Hatteras Island's longest-lasting outdoor traditions. Bait & gear provided by Fish Bites, free for everyone. No experience necessary — just curiosity and a love of the water!
Event Partners
Beach Clean-Up Day
All Day Tournament
The Outer Banks weather can be unpredictable — so we've planned ahead. Here's what happens if conditions don't cooperate:
This event is made possible by the generous support of our local and regional partners. We're proud to work alongside organizations that share our love of the Outer Banks, the outdoors, and community.
The host club behind the Showdown — bringing world-class youth soccer programs to Hatteras Island since day one.
hifcayso.orgSupporting youth outdoor experiences and connecting young North Carolinians with the natural world.
gooutside.nc.govProud local sponsor of the Cape Hatteras Sand Soccer Showdown — serving up the best pies on Hatteras Island out of Rodanthe.
Sponsoring and printing the official event T-shirts for the Showdown — every player and attendee goes home with a piece of Hatteras history on their back.
thirdstonegraphics.comSupplying all bait and gear for the Kids Surf Fishing Lessons — making sure every kid gets their first cast on the legendary Hatteras surf.
Presenting sponsor of the Kids Surf Fishing Lessons and proud stewards of responsible beach access on the Outer Banks.
These organizations aren't just sponsors — they're true partners in making this event and this community something special. We're honored to work alongside each of them.
The official nonprofit partner of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore and affiliated parks. OBX Forever supports the places we love to play — because the National Park Service cannot accept donations directly, Outer Banks Forever makes that connection possible.
obxforever.orgProviding complimentary surf lessons all day Saturday for tournament participants — led by Morgan O'Connell on the shores of Hatteras. A true partner in making this event an unforgettable OBX experience.
endlesssummersurfobx.comThe Outer Banks' trusted independent news source, helping spread the word about the Showdown across the community. We're proud to have the Island Free Press shining a light on what makes Hatteras Island so special.
islandfreepress.orgWe're playing on the sand at Ramp 43 — one of the most iconic access points on the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Miles of unspoiled shoreline, rolling dunes, and crystal Atlantic waters make for a soccer experience unlike any other.
The Outer Banks offers world-class accommodations, incredible seafood, and endless natural beauty — come for the soccer, stay for the magic of Hatteras Island.
Have questions about registration, divisions, or the event? Reach out at [email protected]
Spots are filling up fast for Year 2. Gather your team, pack your sunscreen, and get ready for an unforgettable weekend on the Outer Banks.
$350 per team · Groups registering 3+ teams receive a discount — email [email protected] to learn more.
Register at OBXsandsoccer.com →
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