Discover the Wonders of Cape Hatteras National Seashore
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Cape Hatteras National Seashore, where pristine beaches meet rich history, nature, and unforgettable outdoor adventures.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore is an expansive, pristine stretch of coastline in North Carolina offering breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and a plethora of outdoor activities for tourists eager to explore its natural beauty.
A brief summary to Cape Hatteras National Seashore
- Buxton, North Carolina, 27920, US
- +1252-473-2111
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best light for photography and fewer crowds.
- Bring your own beach gear, as rentals may be limited in the area.
- Check local tide schedules to plan your beach activities, especially if you want to fish or explore tidal pools.
- Don't forget to pack plenty of water and snacks, as amenities can be sparse in some areas of the seashore.
- Explore the various hiking trails to fully appreciate the diverse ecosystems within the national seashore.
Getting There
-
Car
If you are driving from Nags Head, head south on NC-12 S. This scenic route will take you down the Outer Banks. Continue on NC-12 S for approximately 30 miles until you reach Buxton, NC. Look for the signs directing you to Cape Hatteras National Seashore. The entrance is located near the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. There are no tolls on this route.
-
Public Transportation
Public transportation options are limited in the Outer Banks. However, you can take a bus service offered by the Dare County Transportation System. You can catch a bus from various stops, including Nags Head, and request a drop-off at Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Make sure to check the schedule on their website or call ahead to confirm availability. There is a nominal fee for the bus fare, typically around $2 to $3.
-
Bicycle
For the adventurous, consider biking to Cape Hatteras National Seashore. If you are in the vicinity, you can ride along NC-12, which has designated bike paths in some areas. Rent a bike from one of the local shops in Nags Head or Hatteras Village. Ensure to wear a helmet and bring water. This route is approximately 30 miles and will take several hours depending on your pace.
-
Taxi/Ride-share
You can also use taxi services or ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft to reach Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Simply input 'Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Buxton, NC' as your destination in the app. Fares may vary depending on your pickup location, but expect to pay around $40 to $70 from Nags Head or Kill Devil Hills.
Discover more about Cape Hatteras National Seashore
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Easternmost Point of North Carolina
17.8 km
Explore the Easternmost Point of North Carolina - a historical landmark offering breathtaking ocean views and rich maritime heritage.
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Original Location
19.4 km
Explore the historic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, a stunning beacon of maritime history and breathtaking views along North Carolina's Outer Banks.
USLSS Station Pea Island Historical Marker
57.9 km
Discover the legacy of maritime heroism at the USLSS Station Pea Island, a historical landmark on North Carolina's picturesque Outer Banks.
First English Colonies Historical Marker
59.5 km
Explore the First English Colonies Historical Marker in Manteo, NC, and uncover the fascinating story of early American settlers in a beautiful coastal setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Avon Fishing Pier
9.0 km
Discover the beauty of fishing, relaxation, and stunning ocean views at Avon Fishing Pier on the Outer Banks of North Carolina.
Kavon Park
9.0 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Kavon Park in Avon, NC – a perfect retreat for nature lovers and families seeking serenity in the heart of North Carolina.
Salvo Day Area Outer Banks
11.3 km
Explore the serene Salvo Day Area on the Outer Banks, where nature and recreation converge for an unforgettable day in paradise.
Salvo Day Use Area
12.0 km
Explore the scenic beauty and outdoor adventures of Salvo Day Use Area, a perfect coastal retreat in North Carolina's Outer Banks.
Pea Island Art Gallery
12.2 km
Explore the vibrant artistic community at Pea Island Art Gallery, a hidden gem showcasing unique local art and crafts in the heart of Salvo, North Carolina.
Kite Point
15.2 km
Discover Kite Point in Buxton, NC: a paradise for kiteboarding, windsurfing, and breathtaking coastal views in the Outer Banks.
Cape Hatteras / Outer Banks KOA Resort
16.6 km
Experience the natural beauty and adventure of Cape Hatteras at the KOA Resort, where camping meets coastal charm in the Outer Banks.
St. Clair Landing Family Campground
16.7 km
Discover the beauty of St. Clair Landing Family Campground in Rodanthe, NC, where nature meets adventure in the stunning Outer Banks.
Camp Hatteras RV Resort & Campground
16.9 km
Discover the beauty of the Outer Banks at Camp Hatteras RV Resort & Campground, where adventure meets relaxation in a stunning coastal setting.
Rodanthe Pier Place
17.7 km
Discover the beauty and excitement of Rodanthe Pier Place, a premier destination for fishing and relaxation on the Outer Banks of North Carolina.
Rodanthe Watersports and Campground
18.0 km
Experience the ultimate coastal getaway at Rodanthe Watersports and Campground, where adventure meets relaxation on the stunning Outer Banks.
North Beach Campground
18.7 km
Discover North Beach Campground, a serene escape in Rodanthe, NC, where nature meets comfort amid the stunning Outer Banks coastline.
Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station Historic Site and Museum
18.9 km
Discover the rich maritime history at Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station, a historic site and museum on North Carolina's Outer Banks.
Old Lighthouse Beach Access
19.6 km
Explore Old Lighthouse Beach Access in Buxton, NC, where sandy shores meet rich maritime history and stunning ocean vistas await.
Museum of the Sea
19.9 km
Discover the maritime history of the Outer Banks at the Museum of the Sea in Buxton, North Carolina, a perfect family-friendly destination.
Essential places to dine
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Kitty Hawk Kites
6.4 km
Explore Kitty Hawk Kites in Avon, NC, your ultimate destination for kites, outdoor gear, and unique souvenirs on the beautiful Outer Banks.
Fisherman's Daughter
6.5 km
Explore Fisherman's Daughter in Avon, NC for unique gifts and local crafts that capture the spirit of the Outer Banks.
ArtSea
7.0 km
Discover unique local art and handcrafted gifts at ArtSea, Avon’s charming gift shop that showcases the spirit of the Outer Banks.
The Island Attic- Avon
7.1 km
Explore The Island Attic in Avon, a charming home goods store filled with unique treasures and local artisan crafts that capture coastal living.
Island Spice & Wine
7.8 km
Experience the unique flavors of the Outer Banks at Island Spice & Wine, a charming wine store in Avon offering exquisite selections and local delicacies.
Salty Sandollar Boutique
8.3 km
Explore Salty Sandollar Boutique for unique gifts and local crafts in Avon, North Carolina, capturing the spirit of the Outer Banks.
Hattiebuilt
8.3 km
Explore Hattiebuilt in Avon, NC for unique gifts and local artistry that capture the spirit of the Outer Banks.
OBXorganiX LLC
8.3 km
Explore OBXorganiX LLC in Avon, NC for a unique selection of organic foods and natural beauty products, perfect for health-conscious travelers.
Simply OBX & X-Treme Arcade
8.5 km
Discover beachwear and arcade fun at Simply OBX & X-Treme Arcade in Avon, NC, a perfect fusion of shopping and entertainment for all ages.
Mill Creek Gifts
9.1 km
Explore Mill Creek Gifts: A charming gift shop in Avon, NC, featuring unique local crafts and treasures to take home.
Patriot Outpost
10.4 km
Explore American pride through unique jewelry and apparel at Patriot Outpost in Avon, NC. A must-visit for every Outer Banks traveler.
Super Wings
10.6 km
Discover unique beach clothing and souvenirs at Super Wings, Avon, NC's charming gift shop that captures the coastal spirit.
Askins Creek Store
11.7 km
Explore the charm of the Outer Banks at Askins Creek Store, your go-to convenience store for essentials and local treasures in Avon.
Blue Whale
13.0 km
Discover local flavors at the Blue Whale grocery store in Salvo, North Carolina, your go-to spot for fresh produce and friendly service in the Outer Banks.
Returning Tide Giftshop
13.1 km
Explore unique handmade crafts and local artistry at Returning Tide Giftshop in Salvo, North Carolina, a must-visit for art lovers.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Po House, Good Eats & Libations, Sound - Side Dining
6.5 km
Experience the taste of the Outer Banks at Po House, where fresh seafood meets vibrant libations in a charming coastal setting.
The Froggy Dog
7.5 km
Discover the heart of American flavors at The Froggy Dog in Avon, NC, where a warm atmosphere meets delicious traditional cuisine.
Ketch 55 Seafood Grill
8.0 km
Experience the freshest seafood and vibrant flavors at Ketch 55 Seafood Grill, a must-visit dining spot in Avon, NC.
Mad Crabber Restaurant
8.4 km
Experience the best of seafood dining at Mad Crabber Restaurant, where fresh flavors and a cozy atmosphere await in Avon, North Carolina.
Howards Tap Shack
8.4 km
Discover the local nightlife at Howards Tap Shack, a lively bar in Avon, North Carolina, perfect for drinks and socializing.
Oceanas Bistro
8.7 km
Discover the flavors of the Outer Banks at Oceanas Bistro, a charming bistro offering fresh seafood and local ingredients in a cozy setting.
Pangea Tavern
9.0 km
Experience culinary delights at Pangea Tavern, the premier dining destination in Avon, North Carolina, blending local flavors with a vibrant atmosphere.
Dirty Dick's Crab House - Avon
10.6 km
Experience the best of seafood dining at Dirty Dick's Crab House, where fresh flavors and fun atmosphere unite in Avon, NC.
Gidget's Pizza & Pasta
10.7 km
Experience the authentic taste of Italy at Gidget's Pizza & Pasta in Avon, where delicious pizzas and pastas await in a cozy atmosphere.
Hatteras Bowls
15.3 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of health-focused bowls at Hatteras Bowls in North Carolina's Outer Banks—where fresh meets delicious.
Watermen's Bar & Grill
15.5 km
Experience the best of coastal cuisine at Watermen's Bar & Grill in Waves, NC, with fresh seafood and a welcoming atmosphere.
Mirro’s Cafe
16.5 km
Discover the flavors of the Outer Banks at Mirro’s Cafe, where fresh ingredients meet coastal charm for an unforgettable dining experience.
Tina's Poolside Cafe
16.5 km
Discover delicious cuisine and relaxation at Tina's Poolside Cafe in beautiful Rodanthe, NC, where every meal is an experience amidst stunning scenery.
The Dough Shack
17.1 km
Experience the best of coastal cuisine at The Dough Shack, a local favorite for delicious pizza and a welcoming atmosphere in Rodanthe, NC.
Good Winds Restaurant
17.5 km
Experience the finest seafood and breathtaking ocean views at Good Winds Restaurant, a coastal gem in Rodanthe, North Carolina.
