surf vs. piers

[carpenter334]

I am going to Morehead soon for a Triumph Boat owner's event. While there, I hope to wet a line and since I do not yet have a boat (i'm always shopping) I am planning on fishing either in the surf or from one of the local piers. I remember the surf zone being quite shallow at Atlantic Beach. I remember the surf zone more attractive for surf fishing down by Salterpath and Indian Beach. I also remember some very nice catches of Flounder and Pomps at Emerald Isle back in the 1980s. Since I have not fished these beaches in such a long time, can anyone point me toward the best fishing beach with good deep sloughs and with an outer bar within easy casting distance. Or do ya'll think my time is better spent fishing for spot and throwing Gotchas from one of the local piers? Which pier???
Thanks,
Andy