Hatteras Island is an uncrowded, beautiful, and natural coastal destination, but that doesn't mean it's boring! The island offers a wealth of things to do and see. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach vacation or exciting watersports adventure, Hatteras Island has you covered. Here is our list of the top ten things to do on Hatteras Island.

The Beach on Hatteras Island

1. Go to the beach!

Let's get the obvious out of the way. The beaches of Hatteras Island are truly unique and special, offering visitors a one-of-a-kind beach experience. This stunning coastline boasts miles of pristine sand and crystal-clear waters that are managed and protected by the National Park Service.

The beaches of Hatteras Island are also known for their natural beauty. Whether you are watching the sun rise over the horizon, taking a walk along the beach, searching for beautiful seashells, or simply relaxing in the sun, the beauty of Hatteras Island is sure to captivate you.

The National Park Service manages and protects the beaches of Hatteras Island, so you can be sure that the beauty of the island's beaches will remain intact year after year. The National Park Service also provides education and interpretation programs to help visitors understand and appreciate the unique local features and inhabitants, including local sea turtle nesting sites.

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

2. Climb Cape Hatteras Lighthouse *after construction is completed*

*Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is undergoing renovation in 2024 and is not available for climbing.* A visit to the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is a must-see for anyone visiting Hatteras Island. With it's iconic, diagonal black and white stripes, Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is one of the most recognizable landmarks on the East Coast.

One of the highlights of a visit to the lighthouse is the opportunity to climb its 257 steps to the top. The climb is strenuous but rewarding, and the views are simply breathtaking. From the top of the lighthouse, visitors can see for miles in all directions, taking in the stunning scenery of Hatteras Island, Cape Point, Buxton, and the surrounding ocean.

Visitors can also learn about the rich history of the lighthouse and the Outer Banks at the nearby visitor center. The visitor center features exhibits and displays that explore the history of lighthouse and its role in the maritime history of the East Coast.

In addition to the lighthouse, visitors can also explore the nearby grounds and gardens, which feature a variety of plants and wildlife native to the area. This is a great place to relax, have a picnic, or simply take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

A Jeep on Carova Beach

3. Drive Your 4x4 Vehicle to Cape Point

The National Park Service allows visitors to buy 4x4 access permits and drive their 4x4 vehicles on Hatteras beaches, offering a unique and intimate way to explore the island and its surroundings.

Driving on the beaches of Cape Hatteras is unlike driving on any other beach. The sand is soft, and the ocean is close, making for an unforgettable experience. We recommend exploring Cape Point, where the island turns from North/South to an East-West orientation. At Cape Point, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean, go fishing, or simply relax in the sun.

In order to drive on the beaches of Cape Hatteras, visitors must purchase a 4x4 access permit from the National Park Service. The permit allows drivers to access the beaches at dozens of points and park their vehicles at designated areas along the shore. The permit also provides important information about beach driving regulations and guidelines, including information about tire pressure and recommended 4x4 equipment.

Speaking of tire pressure, it is important to air down your tires before driving on the beaches of Hatteras Island. Airing down the tires will help your vehicle maintain better traction on the soft sand, reduce the risk of getting stuck, and reduce engine and transmission stresses. In addition, it is recommended to bring traction mats and a shovel to assist with getting unstuck if needed. Check out our "driving on the beach" guide for more information.

Hatteras Landing

4. Shopping and Dining at Hatteras Landing

Hatteras Landing Shopping Center offers a wide range of shopping, dining, entertainment, and other activities. Located on the southern end of the island, Hatteras Village Shopping Center is a hub of activity, and there is always something to do.

Shopping is one of the main attractions of Hatteras Landing Shopping Center, with a variety of stores selling souvenirs, gifts, clothing, and beach gear. Whether you're looking for a unique item to take home as a reminder of your trip or just need to stock up on essentials, the shopping center has something for everyone.

When it comes to dining, Hatteras Landing Shopping Center has plenty of options to choose from, including local seafood restaurants, snacks, fast food options, bars & grilles, and ice cream shops. Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, there is something to suit every taste and budget.

In addition to shopping and dining, visitors can also book a charter fishing boat at the attached Hatteras Landing Marina. Charter offerings include inshore, offshore, and specialty experiences.

Hatteras Ocracoke Ferry

5. Ride the Hatteras - Ocracoke Ferry

The Hatteras Ocracoke ferry provides a link between Hatteras Island and Ocracoke Island. The ferry system operates two types of services: a vehicular ferry and a passenger-only (non-vehicle) ferry.

The vehicular ferry is the only way visitors can take their cars or trucks to Ocracoke Island. The ferry operates on a frequent schedule, with departures from Hatteras Island to Ocracoke Island taking place several times per day. The trip varies in duration based on sandbar movement, but is approximately 1-2 hours long, allowing visitors to sit back and enjoy the scenic views of the ocean, Pamlico sound, and the surrounding coastline.

In addition to the vehicular ferry, the Hatteras Ocracoke ferry also operates the Ocracoke Express, a passenger-only (non-vehicle) ferry, during the Summer months. The Ocracoke Express operates with multiple departures each day from Hatteras Island to Ocracoke Island, and back. The trip duration is approximately the same as the vehicular ferry, making it a convenient option for those who want to explore the island on foot or by bicycle.

The Hatteras Ocracoke ferry and Ocracoke Express are a convenient and easy way to get to Ocracoke Island. With a frequent schedule, visitors can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic views as they make their way to Ocracoke Island. If you're looking for an exciting and convenient way to explore the beautiful Outer Banks region of North Carolina, the Hatteras Ocracoke ferry is the perfect choice!

Watersports at Haulover

6. Learn to Kiteboard and Windsurf

Hatteras Island is an East coast favorite destination for kiteboarding and windsurfing enthusiasts, offering world-class conditions and a wealth of opportunities for beginners and experienced riders alike. Whether you're looking to try these exciting water sports for the first time or you're an experienced rider looking to improve your skills, Hatteras Island is the perfect place to be.

One of the premier destinations for kiteboarding and windsurfing on Hatteras Island is REAL Watersports. REAL Watersports offers a range of lessons and equipment rental options for visitors, making it easy to get started or to continue improving your skills. The experienced instructors at REAL Watersports are dedicated to helping visitors of all skill levels achieve their goals, offering personalized instruction and guidance to ensure that you get the most out of your time on the water. Not interested in getting wet? REAL also offers an expansive shop with apparel and gifts, and a delicious restaurant with porch facing Pamlico Sound. We love grabbing a bite to eat and watching the kiteboarders glide back and forth across the sound.

Another great option for kiteboarding and windsurfing on Hatteras Island is Kitty Hawk Kites. Kitty Hawk Kites offers a range of lessons and rental options for visitors, making it easy to get started or to continue improving your skills. The experienced instructors at Kitty Hawk Kites are skilled in helping visitors of all levels achieve their goals. The Kitty Hawk Kites location in Waves also offers a large retail store with an amazing assortment of gifts, apparel, and gear.

Salvo Day Use Area

7. Relax at Haulover or Salvo Day Use Areas

Haulover on Hatteras Island, North Carolina is a popular soundside beach spot for visitors and locals alike. Located between Avon and Buxton, Haulover offers stunning views of the Pamlico sound, a sandy beach, and a variety of recreational opportunities. There are several amenities available, including restrooms and rinse-showers, making it easy to spend the whole day at Haulover. Additionally, there is an ample, paved parking lot.

Visitors to Haulover can swim, sunbathe, fish, kiteboard, and windsurf. The waters here are relatively calm, making it a great spot for families with small children.

The picturesque, soundside Salvo Day Use Area park offers bathrooms and plenty of picnic tables, making it easy to have a picnic or a snack in between activities. Additionally, there is ample parking available.

One of the most popular activities is swimming in the Pamlico sound. The sound is generally calm and perfect for families and children. Sunbathing is also a popular activity, with plenty of room on the wide sandy beaches to spread out and catch some rays.

The Salvo Day Use Area is also a popular destination for kiteboarders and windsurfers. The area is known for its consistent winds, making it an ideal spot for wind-fueled activities. Kiteboarders and windsurfers can practice their skills, providing a spectacle for onlookers. The wide open beach provides plenty of space for beginners to set up their gear.

Chicamacomico Lifesaving Station

8. Visit Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station

Chicamacomico Lifesaving Station in Rodanthe, North Carolina is a historical gem that offers visitors a glimpse into the past and the bravery of the US Life-saving Service. The station is one of the oldest surviving surf stations on the Atlantic coast and has been restored to its original condition, allowing visitors to see what life was like for the men who served there. The station is a testament to the bravery of the lifesavers who risked their lives to save others and the sacrifices they made to protect the people of the Outer Banks.

The Chicamacomico Lifesaving Station was originally built in 1874 and served as a base of operations for the US Lifesaving Service until it was decommissioned in the 1930s. Today, the station has been restored to its original condition and serves as a museum, showcasing the history of the US Lifesaving Service and the role the station played in the development of the US Coast Guard.

Visitors to the Chicamacomico Lifesaving Station can tour restored buildings and see the equipment and tools used by lifesavers, including surfboats, life-saving apparatus, and rescue equipment. They can also learn about the rescue operations that took place at the station and the challenges the lifesavers faced. The station also offers educational programs, such as reenactments of lifesaving drills and demonstrations of the rescue equipment, giving visitors a hands-on experience of what it was like to be a lifesaver.

In addition to the museum, the Chicamacomico Lifesaving Station also offers a gift shop, where visitors can purchase souvenirs and learn even more about its history.

Rodanthe Pier

9. Visit a Fishing Pier (and go fishing!)

Hatteras Island is an extremely popular destination for anglers and fishing enthusiasts, and offers three fishing piers. Each pier has its own unique features and amenities, making it easy to find the perfect spot to cast a line.

Bonner Bridge Pier: Located at the Northernmost point of Hatteras Island, this pier is actually the Southern end of the old Herbert C. Bonner Bridge. Open to the public, it's a popular spot for fishing, with plenty of room to cast a line. There aren't any amenities at Bonner pier, so bring everything you need for your day of fishing. Rolling carts and folding chairs are highly recommended! Bonner pier is a great spot for sightseers, with stunning views of the Basnight Bridge, Oregon Inlet Lifesaving Station, and surrounding landscape.

Hatteras Island Fishing Pier (Formerly Rodanthe Fishing Pier): The Hatteras Island Fishing Pier is located in the town of Rodanthe and offers 700 feet of boardwalk. The pier house is well-stocked with bait and tackle, making it a great spot for those who want to try their hand at fishing but don't have their own equipment. Visitors can also purchase a fishing license on-site and take advantage of the pier's cleaning station. The pier is also a popular spot for sightseers, with stunning views of the ocean.

Avon Fishing Pier: Located in the town of Avon, this popular pier is a popular spot for visitors to watch the sunrise and fish. It is well-stocked with bait and tackle. The pier is also a great spot for those who want to try their hand at fishing but don't have their own equipment, with a fishing license available for purchase on-site. In addition, the pier has a cleaning station, making it easy to clean your catch and take it home for dinner.

10. Kayak Rentals and Tours

Kayaking is a wonderful way to explore the stunning coastal waters and marshes of Hatteras Island. With a variety of kayak rental and tour companies available, it's easy to find the perfect way to experience the beauty of Hatteras Island from the water.

One popular kayak rental and tour company is Kitty Hawk Kites. They offer a variety of kayaks for rent, including single and tandem kayaks, as well as Hobie pedal kayaks. The company provides all the necessary equipment, including paddles and life jackets, making it easy to get out on the water and start exploring. Kitty Hawk Kites also offers kayak tours leaving from its Salvo location.

Another great option is Coastal Kayak, which offers guided kayak tours of Pea Island Wildlife Refuge. The tours take visitors through this birding paradise, offering a unique perspective on the wildlife and ecosystem of the Outer Banks. Guides are knowledgeable about the local waterfowl, animals, and plants, and are happy to answer any questions you may have.

This is by no means an exhaustive list of great things to do on Hatteras Island, but we hope it gives you a taste of just how much there is to do!

Ben Franklin

Ben Franklin

Stop by Nags Head's Ben Franklin at Mile Post 10 on the Bypass where you will find everything you need for the beach! From Clothing, T-shirts and Swimwear to Boards, Chairs, Umbrellas and Tackle. You'll find it all…and of course, we have the best selection of Souvenirs anywhere on the Outer Banks. Enjoy your vacation! Independently owned by a member of one of the Outer Banks’ oldest families, the Ben Franklin store is stocked with just about everything a visitor would need to go to the beach.

 

Ben Franklin stores were once part of a five-and-dime retail empire, with about 2,500 locations across the country in its heyday. As decades passed and the times and customers began to change, many closed their doors, leading to fewer than 150 of these nostalgic shops. Nags Head Ben Franklin, however, has withstood the test of time and adapted to the needs of its customers to provide a memorable shopping experience on the Outer Banks.

 

Debbie Terry Tolson, manager of the Ben Franklin location in Nags Head, recalls working with former owner Tommie Daniels. Daniels’ father, Moncie Daniels, started the business in downtown Manteo in the early 1900s. The Daniels family has been a longstanding fixture in the Outer Banks business community—Moncie even sold gas to the Wright brothers in 1903.

 

Tommie, with an excellent business mind, saw the opportunity the new Bypass presented and, in 1977, he opened the Nags Head location of Ben Franklin. He was one of the first businesses on the Bypass,” Tolson says.In addition to a new location, the Ben Franklin store saw a new group of customers.

 

“People would come from all around because Tommie had a little bit of everything—it was more like a five and 10 then,” Tolson explains. “As he went to the beach, he began to get more tourists, so he started catering more and more to visitors.”

 

Today, the 21,000-square-foot souvenir shop quickly catches the attention of anyone driving by thanks to the ocean-themed mural that decorates the façade of the building, painted by local artist Rob Snyder. This Ben Franklin location has become the must-stop shop for both first-time visitors to the area and generations of families who escape to the Outer Banks annually.

 

Tolson credits the great prices and friendly customer service to the success of the location, which keeps families returning.“People come in all the time and tell me, ‘my grandmother or my grandfather used to bring me here and now I’m bringing my children,’” she shares. “One of my favorite parts about working here is seeing the people come back year after year.”

Awful Arthur's Oyster Bar

Awful Arthur's Oyster Bar

Welcome to the home of the happy oyster where for over 40 years the oyster has been our world. The Outer Banks only authentic oyster bar is the place to enjoy sensational fare from the sea washed down with your favorite brew or cocktail. We serve by the peck, pound, and dozen, raw or steamed to perfection. Kicked back casual, down to earth friendly staff, and reasonable prices make Awful Arthur’s Oyster Bar the all-time favorite of locals and travelers alike.

The idea wasn’t to set out and establish a new concept restaurant on the Outer Banks, but that’s exactly what Awful Arthur’s owner Jo Whitehead and her late husband, Jay, accomplished more than 35 years ago when they opened the area’s first authentic oyster bar.

 

Awful Arthur’s opened in May 1984 on the Outer Banks. “We embraced the concept of an authentic copper top bar with the idea of it being a major drawing card and it still is,” explains Whitehead. “I get oysters wherever they are local. We follow the warm waters.” 

 

Just across from the ocean, in Kill Devil Hills, oyster season is year-round at Awful Arthur’s. Diners can take a seat at the copper-topped bar to observe the staff shucking oysters, served raw or steamed, along with shrimp, crab legs and clams all steamed to perfection. 

 

It’s not just the raw bar that’s earned Awful Arthur’s both local and national recognition, including being named one of America’s greatest oyster bars by Coastal Living magazine. The restaurant is a seafood-lover’s paradise, offering the freshest catches available.

Vacasa Outer Banks

Vacasa Outer Banks

With over 800 vacation rentals and all your wish-list amenities, Vacasa has vacation rentals for every group and budget. Browse all rentals, including pet-friendly homes, homes with pools, and oceanfront rentals. Our local team is dedicated to providing the best vacation experience for everyone, whether you are a longtime visitor of the Outer Banks or looking to plan your first stay. With our professional, local caretaking team, central support staff, and 24/7 customer service, we’ll be there every step of the way.

Jimmy's Seafood Buffet

Jimmy's Seafood Buffet

Home of the Crab Leg & Lobster Buffet for 25! years! Jimmy’s Seafood Buffet is a great stop for an all you can eat affordable dinner extravaganza. The buffet offers over 100 different items. It even serves Jumbo Alaskan crab legs and Jumbo steamed shrimp, something you will not find on any other buffet in the OBX. The buffet offers a variety of seafood and non seafood options. Try some of Jimmy’s seafood options and load your plate with blackened tuna, Louisiana crawfish, steamed scallops and mussels, fried oysters and deviled crabs. Not in the mood for seafood? Fill your plate with steak, pineapple glazed ham, fried chicken, BBQ ribs, and fettuccini Alfredo to name a few. The buffet also offers a kid section. Let your kids load their plates with chicken tenders, mac and cheese, and corn dog nuggets. Don’t forget dessert! The buffet also offers soft serve ice cream and a plethora of baked goods. 

 

It’s been 25 years since Jimmy’s Seafood Buffet opened its doors for the first time. Since that inaugural summer, the goal has remained the same: provide customers with a tasty, fresh array of seafood full of Caribbean flavor.

 

Elizabeth Dowless and her husband Jerry had always worked in restaurants in the Outer Banks, so when the opportunity to open Jimmy’s Seafood Buffet with a couple of friends arose, it was an easy yes. The Dowlesses bought out the business in 2003, excited to turn Jimmy’s into an Outer Banks staple. When Jerry passed away later that year, Dowless knew she wanted to continue pursuing their dream on her own.

 

Dowless went all in on the concept of a fresh, flavorful seafood buffet and her hard work paid off. Jimmy’s Seafood Buffet is a beloved fixture of Outer Banks dining, with customers returning year after year for the fresh fare.

 

“Customers keep in contact with me throughout the winter. I get people every day asking me when we’re opening for the season, and customers book their vacations around our opening,” Dowless says. “I absolutely love getting to see familiar faces come back to see us each year. I love seeing them lose their minds over the buffet! Their excitement is what I love most about my job.”

Island Smoothie Cafe

Island Smoothie Cafe

At Island Smoothie, we have created a menu and atmosphere that is designed to be as unique as the northern shores of the Outer Banks. Our creations utilize fresh local produce when possible. There is nothing better than local NC strawberries, blackberries or blueberries. Make sure to try our Carolina peaches. From our amazing acai bowls and smoothies to our signature sandwiches and wraps you simply won’t find anything like Island Smoothie.

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Donutz on a Stick

Donutz on a Stick

Stay, Play and Eat- Donuts, Ice Cream & Coffee Treats! Located on the Duck Boardwalk, behind Dockside Seafood, this breakfast & Dessert-Shop features treats you've never tasted before! Try the hot, made to order, donutz on a stick with more than 35 toppings! They'll melt in your mouth! Or try the Gluten-Free Donuts; limited quantities, daily. Plus, try any or all of the 9 flavors of homemade tastefully twisted soft serve. Frozen yogurt, sorbets, sherbet, hand dipped and homemade ice cream flavors.

 

Unique coffees, sodas and espresso that will satisfy the whole family. Mix-and-match nostalgic candies and much more. Bring the carnival to your mouth and eat it like nobody’s watchin’! Donutz-On-A-Stick- where visual stimulation meets taste bud overload!

 

Carnival Treats at the Beach—With Flavorful Creations and Allergy-Friendly Options, Donutz on a Stick Serves Up Sweet Treats for Everyone

 

David and Stephanie were not always in the business of carnival confections. In fact, Stephanie was a fitness instructor and David worked in the computer field. But he loved donuts and she loved ice cream, and when they saw an opportunity to bring their favorite treats to beachgoers, they jumped on it.

 

In 2014, the couple opened their first Donutz on a Stick—a family-run, family-friendly dessert shop on the boardwalk. They quickly realized that in order to serve everyone, they would need to get creative. “We had a family who would come in, and one of the little boys would have to wait by the door because of his gluten allergy,” David says. “That didn’t sit well with us. We wanted everyone to come under the same roof no matter what kind of allergies they had. And we continue to work towards that goal.”

 

The Williams’ daughter Desireé spent six weeks experimenting until she created a gluten-free donut that was totally safe and delicious. Gluten-free donuts are now a huge part of the business, with more than 1,000 being served each day, just out of the Duck location. But you will want to call or stop by to reserve them in advance.

 

The Williams’ other three children, David, Justin and Christian, have all invented menu items as well, such as Christian’s donut milkshake, which features hot and fresh cooked donuts blended into a milkshake with another donut on top making it picture perfect.

 

While all the Williams have created menu items, the most popular pick—the donut sundae—was actually a happy accident.

 

“We were being featured in a local magazine and we could only have one photo for the article,” David says. Since both ice cream and donuts were equally popular, “we built the donut sundae for the photo and we discovered after the photoshoot that it tasted amazing. It was completely serendipitous.”

 

The Williams family is constantly creating and improving upon their recipes. At the heart of it all is a desire to see everyone come in and enjoy an experience together. They want to bring the carnival to your mouth.

 

“No matter how busy we are—even if there’s a line down the boardwalk—every customer gets that engagement and service from us,” they say.

 

The family has since opened a second location in the Hampton Roads, Virginia area.

Nags Head Dolphin Watch

Nags Head Dolphin Watch

Scientists run these dolphin tours as part of their research on these beloved aquatic animals, so you know this will be an interesting trip. Passengers will be able to see how researchers with the Outer Banks Center for Dolphin Research, a nonprofit organization,  conduct their research and hear about some of the discoveries from more than a decade of studies and monitoring. Some of the hundreds of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins in the area show up so frequently they’ve even been given names, like “Rake,” “Scarlet,” and “Onion.”  

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