Exploring the many fun things to do at the Cape Hatteras National Seashore is a journey that reconnects you with the raw beauty of the natural world. Tucked on the North Carolina Outer Banks, this protected stretch of coastline is a haven for those seeking a unique coastal experience.
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Where Is the Cape Hatteras National Seashore?
The Cape Hatteras National Seashore stretches over 70 miles of barrier islands along the NC Atlantic Coast. The area is often called the “Graveyard of the Atlantic” due to its numerous shipwrecks off its coast during its rich maritime past.
4 Things To Do in the Cape Hatteras National Seashore
Beach Activities
There are plenty of fun things to do on the Cape Hatteras National Seashore beaches. You can enjoy kite flying, picnicking, and shelling on the almost 70 miles of beach. Three historic lighthouses have options for tours. Off-road vehicles are another great way to explore the Cape Hatteras beaches. When the sun sets, you and your companions can huddle up by a beach fire.
Fishing at the Cape Hatteras
Fishing is one of the most popular things to do on the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. The spring and fall are the best time to enjoy fishing at Cape Hatteras, but motivated anglers can find catches all year round. The Oregon Inlet Fishing Center in Nags Head has one of the eastern seaboard’s most modern and largest charter boat fishing fleets. The Avon Fishing Pier is world renowned for its many record-breaking catches, especially with Red Drum fish.
Hiking at the Cape Hatteras
Exploring the hiking trails is one of the best things to do on the Cape Hatteras National Seashore to see the most remote parts. The Buxton Woods Trail loop starts and ends at the Buxton Woods Picnic. It will take you up close to the diverse maritime forest ecosystem and some of the highest points on Hatteras Island. The Open Ponds Trail is 9 miles out and back and winds along maritime forests, dunes, and the British Cemetery.
Nature Viewing & Photography
One of the most wonderful things to do at the Cape Hatteras National Seashore is wildlife viewing, where you can capture beautiful photos. Come and gander at a herd of banker ponies, wildflowers, over 400 bird species, and more. The Bodie Island Marsh Blind wildlife-viewing platform is a great spot for visitors to observe the natural and distinctive beauty of the Outer Banks.
