Top Things To Do in the Cape Hatteras National Seashore

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.

Book an unforgettable vacation to the Outer Banks with Atlantic Realty. Choose your Outer Banks vacation rental from our selection of OBX rentals featuring amenities like theater rooms, private pools, and oceanfront views. We can’t wait to welcome you to the trip of a lifetime!

The natural beauty of Cape Hatteras National Seashore

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.

Book your stay in one of Atlantic Realty’s Vacation Rental Homes, just a short drive away from Cape Hatteras National Seashore and explore the endless adventurous things to do there!

July 18, 2023July 18, 2023

Explore the Dare County Civil War Trail

The Dare County Civil War Trail offers a unique opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of events that shaped American history. The North Carolina Outer Banks overflow in American history spanning all the way back to the first attempted English Colony on American soil. Book your trip today with Atlantic Realty!

Atlantic Realty has provided travelers with a lovely array of Outer Banks vacation rentals for over four decades. Our team of experienced professionals has deep roots in the region and is dedicated to helping guests find their ideal Outer Banks vacation rental. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a group retreat, Atlantic Realty has a diverse portfolio of OBX rentals to suit every need and budget.

First Light of Freedom Market at Fort Raleigh — First Light of Freedom Marker . Photographer: Tom Bosse

Venture on the Dare County Civil War Trail

America’s 1st Attempt at Civil War Reunification: After the surrender of Fort Hatteras in 1861, citizens attempted to reunite with the Union.
Burnside Expedition: In 1862, the Burnside Expedition captured Roanoke Island.
Confederate Forts: This Dare County Civil War marker signifies Fort Hatteras and Fort Clark.
Flagship USS Minnesota and Hotel de Afrique: Learn about the USS Minnesota and the predecessor to the Freedmen’s Colony on Roanoke Island.
The Bombardment of Fort Hatteras: Visit this Dare County Civil War marker to learn about the first joint military operation of the Civil War.
Island Veterans of the Civil War: Read about the Civil War’s first amphibious assault.
Maritime Casualties of the American Civil War: This marker honors the maritime casualties during the Civil War.
Fort Forrest: Learn about this historic Civil War fort.
Battle of Roanoke Island: In 1862, Roanoke Island surrendered to the Union.
Burnside Expedition of 1862: This exhibit on the Dare County Civil War Trail goes in-depth about the Burnside Expedition.
Confederate Channel Obstructions: Wood pilings were placed to stop the federal fleet in Croatan Sound.
Deliverance Marker: Learn about the 6,000 ex-enslaved people who resided in Freedmen’s Colony on Roanoke Island.
First Light of Freedom: This is another engaging exhibit dedicated to Freedmen’s Colony.
Fort Bartow: Read about this Confederate Civil War fort.
Fort Blanchard: This was the smallest Confederate Civil War fort on Roanoke Island.
Fort Huger: This was the Principal Confederate fort on Roanoke Island.
The Chicamacomico Races: Learn about one of the most well-known Civil War battles in Dare County.
The Fanny: This Dare County Civil War Trail marker tells the story of the beginning of the Chicamacomico Races and the first capture of a federal vessel during the Civil War.

Book your trip with Atlantic Realty to immerse yourself in American history!

June 19, 2023June 19, 2023

Enjoy a Lovely Outer Banks Beach Picnic

The Outer Banks offer an idyllic setting for a beach picnic, with endless stretches of sandy shores, gentle ocean breezes, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Atlantic Realty has a plush selection of Outer Banks vacation rentals with fully equipped kitchens perfect for whipping up the tasty recipe ideas in this blog post. Find your ideal home away from home from our properties featuring private pools, oceanfront views, theater rooms, and even pet-friendly options!

Picnic Setup on the Beach — Plan your perfect beach picnic on the OBX — Photo courtesy of DREAMART OBX Picnic Co.

Two of Atlantic Realty Fun N Sun Pass Program partners offer enchanting picnic setups. Guests can enjoy a 10% discount at DREAMART OBX Picnic Co., the top luxury picnic company in the Outer Banks. Guests can also receive a 10% discount from OBX Pop Up Picnics, which specializes in picnic setups for a wide variety of occasions. Book your stay today to experience pure bliss on an Outer Banks beach picnic.

9 Recipe Ideas To Try On Your Outer Banks Beach Picnic

Cheese Platter

A cheese board is a picnic staple, and this recipe will walk you through how to personalize your own. Learn how to choose your favorite cheeses, find the perfect accompaniments, and arrange a visually stunning board.

Charcuterie Board

A skillfully crafted charcuterie board will class up any beach picnic. This recipe is another comprehensive guide from Bake It With Love that will walk you through how to create a board that’s sure to impress.

Fresh Fruit Salad

There’s nothing that screams summer quite like a fresh fruit salad. Follow this recipe for a delicious and fruity picnic side dish.

Sparkling Strawberry Lemonade

This super easy recipe will be the perfect way to quench your thirst during your dreamy beach picnic. This recipe should take you less than half an hour to whip up!

Easy Sun Tea Recipe

Sun tea is a beloved summertime drink in the South. Although sun tea is usually safe to drink, those with a weakened immune system should be cautious. The sun won’t make the tea hot enough to kill bacteria, like boiling water will.

Hippie Juice

This fun and fruity cocktail will add a nice kick to your Outer Banks beach picnic. It should only take you under 10 minutes to mix everything up.

Pigs in a Blanket

These adorable finger foods are perfect for any beach picnic. With just three ingredients, these will be quick and easy to whip up in your Outer Banks vacation rental.

Picnic Pie

This is a delicious and unique meal to try out during your stay in the Outer Banks. This recipe is vegetarian and includes a colorful array of veggies.

Picnic Pizza Cob Loaf

If you’re a meat lover, don’t think we forgot about you! This delicious recipe will surely be a hit during your Outer Banks picnic on the beach.

Enjoy a dreamy OBX beach picnic by booking your stay in one of the lovely and spacious vacation rentals offered by Atlantic Realty!

May 16, 2023May 16, 2023

Come to the Outer Banks for the Best 4th of July Vacations

The Outer Banks are the best place for 4th of July vacations because of the area’s rich American history and endless adventures. There are so many reasons a trip to the Outer Banks will be one you will treasure for a lifetime. Atlantic Realty narrowed it down to just seven reasons there’s no better place to spend the 4th of July!

American Flag in sandcastle on the beach — Spend 4th of July on the Outer Banks

Atlantic Realty has an incredible selection of Outer Banks vacation rentals in Corolla, Duck, Manteo, Nags Head, and other vibrant OBX communities. Many of our OBX vacation rentals feature premium amenities such as theater rooms, private pools, game rooms, and pet-friendly options. Book your 4th of July trip in time with Atlantic Realty. The Outer Banks are one of the best places in the world for 4th of July vacations, so accommodations fill up fast!

7 Reasons the Outer Banks Has the Best 4th of July Vacations

Rich American History

The best destination for 4th of July vacations is where America first planted its roots. The first attempted English colony settled into the Outer Banks. However, the Roanoke Colony mysteriously disappeared and nobody is sure to this day what happened.

Independence Day Celebration at Historic Corolla Park

Enjoy a marvelous fireworks show, live music, and family-friendly fun at Independence Day Celebration at Historic Corolla Park. Watermelon eating contests, games, food vendors, and cornhole tournaments are just some of the fun you’ll have at the 4th of July party.

Independence Day Celebration at Duck Town Park

Come and enjoy the Independence Day Celebration at Duck Town Park. Have a blast at the 4th of July parade, with live music, refreshments, and parade float competitions.

Perfect Beach Weather

The perfect beach weather is one of the many reasons the Outer Banks are the best destination for 4th of July vacations.The ocean water temperatures average 72 degrees and are perfect for water sports like kayaking, paddle boarding, and surfing.

The Independence 1 Mile Beer Run

Work off the barbeque, parade candy, and popsicles at The Independence 1 Mile Beer Run. There will also be a backyard 4th of July party and t-shirts.

Spectacular Fireworks Displays

Watch a fireworks display at the scenic Avalon Pier. The Town Of Nags Head Fireworks Spectacular is also incredible for watching fireworks over the Atlantic Ocean.

Town of Manteo Independence Day Celebration

The Town of Manteo Independence Day Celebration is easily one of the best 4th of July events for guests to check out during their Outer Banks vacations. Enjoy games, activities, patriotic trivia, decorated bike competitions, apple pie contests, and more!

Book your stay with Atlantic Realty for the best 4th of July vacations!

January 13, 2023January 13, 2023

Spend St Patrick’s Day 2023 in the Outer Banks

The Annual Outer Banks Beer Mile is a highly anticipated St Patrick’s Day tradition that’s coming up again in full swing for 2023. Join in on the fun, drinking, costume contests, and backyard party! Don’t miss out and book your stay at Atlantic Realty! We have an incredible selection of Outer Banks vacation rentals in all the premium spots. You can choose from plush amenities such as oceanfront views, private pools, theater rooms, and pet-friendly options. Book your stay in time for one of the most fun things to do in Kill Devil Hills for St Patrick’s Day in 2023.

Book Your Trip to the Outer Banks for St Patrick’s Day 2023

Spend St Patrick’s Day 2023 at the 7th Annual Outer Banks Beer Mile. Book your stay with Atlantic Realty to enjoy a Leprechaun-themed beer mile with the Brewing Station crew. This is one of the most incredible Outer Banks events for adults ages 21 and over that includes a backyard party, chip timing, and T-shirt. The beverages are 10 oz, and the runs are ¼ mile. Here are some highlights of what you need to know to join in this St Patrick’s Day 2023:

Where: The Outer Banks Beer Mile address is 600 S. Croatan Hwy Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948. You can look at the course map by clicking here!

When: The 7th Annual Outer Banks Beer Mile will take place on St Patrick’s Day, March 11, 2023. There is no pre-event shirt pickup. Late registration and event day check-in are on-site at The Outer Banks Brewing Station, 11 a.m. – 11:50 a.m. This is a Mass start event from 2 p.m. – 3 p.m.

Registration: The St Patrick’s Day Beer Mile 2023 is limited to only 100 participants. The race entry fee is $40, and you can either utilize online registration or walk-up registration. If you have questions about the St Patrick’s Day race in 2023, you can text 252-489-8239 or email obxrunning@gmail.com.

Winners: Prizes will go to the fastest male and female overall. Don’t forget to wear your Holiday finest because there is also a costume contest for the most creative costume.

Book your stay today with Atlantic Realty to join in on the St Patrick’s Day 2023 fun! We have OBX rentals for every traveler’s tastes and group size.

December 10, 2021May 31, 2022

Celebrate the New Year with an Outer Banks Vacation

Welcome 2022! Finally, we have entered a new chapter of our lives and can start enjoying it to its fullest. All around the country, we’ve wrapped up our New Year’s celebrations, coming away with refreshed memories and new resolutions. A common resolution among folks is traveling more often. There is no better way to begin fulfilling that resolution than a vacation to the beautiful Outer Banks, NC. As your family and friends start slowly easing back into travel, our barrier island communities provide a wonderfully safe relief from crowded spaces and congested vacation destinations. Let the seaside breezes wash over you!

Celebrate 2022 with a Trip to the Outer Banks

Atlantic Realty is where your NC barrier island experience begins. We know that folks traveling during the new year are looking for more affordable vacations and accommodation options. For that very reason, we offer amazing amenities and great specials. You’ll get more bang for your buck by using Atlantic Realty guest perks, including discounted tickets and specials. Our selective vacation rental portfolio spans the lovely island Outer Banks communities, from Corolla to South Nags Head. As you get ready for your new year’s Outer Banks vacation, take a quick look at some of our great value opportunities—

Explore the Shore Guest Program

Pack up your family and get ready to vacation like a local in the Outer Banks! Our Explore the Shore program allows you to enjoy a variety of exciting activities, services, and dining deals. We’ve partnered with local businesses to ensure you have a good time. You can explore the OBX without hurting your pocket!

Fun ‘N Sun Perks Pass

We encourage you to utilize this guest pass, an exclusive vacation amenity that will get you and yours outdoors! There are fantastic savings to be had up and down the Outer Banks, including ice cream discounts and a free fishing pier pass. When you stay with Atlantic Realty, we want to make sure you get out to enjoy the natural beauty of our surrounding areas.

Flexible Payment Plan

Atlantic Realty makes booking your 2022 Outer Banks getaway worry-free with our thoughtful flexible payment plan. You can book your stay today, enter the promo code FLEXPAY2022, and just pay 25 percent of the rent amount. You then make your monthly payments on your schedule. Some restrictions apply, so make sure to visit our website. We are committed to helping you find a home that suits your family’s size, style, and budget.

Book your affordable Outer Banks vacation with us online today! We cannot wait to welcome you and your family to our barrier island.

November 2, 2021May 31, 2022

10 Jar Date Ideas during Your OBX Getaway- Romantic Vacation

You may think of the Outer Banks of North Carolina, lovingly known as OBX, and only picture quaint seaside villages, surfing, fishing, and beautiful sandy beaches. Our lovely barrier island communities do consist of all those incredible attractions, activities, and more. However, OBX is a wonderful place for a romantic getaway, especially during the amorous month of February. You’ll feel like you entered a whole new world, far away from the hustle and bustle of your everyday life.

Date night on the OBX can be lots of fun!

Treat your significant other to a romantic OBX getaway this year and stay with Atlantic Realty, your premier vacation rental and real estate company in the Outer Banks. When you choose one of our beautiful, diverse vacation homes, your barrier island experience will begin! Follow this easy guide to ten jar date ideas during your OBX getaway and romantic vacation—

Fall Hard during Your Romantic OBX Getaway

You don’t need a jar at all—simply look at our list of ten jar date ideas during your stay with Atlantic Realty, roll a 10-sided die, and the number it lands on is your date!

Grab a tasty handcrafted brew at one of the top three Outer Banks breweries, like Outer Banks Brewing Station
Visit a local spa (or two) for a nice, relaxing date all centered on rejuvenation and wellness
Reserve an intimate dinner experience at Kill Devil Hills’ upscale, eclectic French restaurant, The Colington Cafe
Spend a day indulging in self-care at 723 Salty Duck — Colony By The Sea Unit 306A, your new favorite cozy Atlantic Realty vacation rental
Journey down to the beach and enjoy the gorgeous sunrises OBX is known for. Or catch a sunset on the Sound. The Duck Boardwalk is a great viewing spot!
Go to the Elizabethan Gardens in Manteo and stroll around in lush botanical paradise
Venture through Downtown Manteo, which was recently voted one of the ten most romantic towns in North Carolina
Rent a convertible and take your loved one down the Outer Banks Scenic Byway
Embark on a horseback riding tour, which you can read about on our blog page
Shop ‘til you drop with your significant other at the Outer Banks locally-owned shops and boutiques and be sure to check out the local discounts offered with the Atlantic Realty Fun N Sun Perks Pass

Set the mood and reserve the perfect romantic vacation rental with Atlantic Realty. We offer a wide range of rentals, from condos to beachfront homes. Book your stay with us online today!

October 11, 2021May 31, 2022

Celebrate the Holidays with Atlantic Realty OBX

This year, make the holidays an unforgettable time by celebrating them in OBX with Atlantic Realty. A beach vacation is always a fun time, but it gets increasingly fun when you come down during the holiday season! Atlantic Realty offers families, friends, and everyone with beautiful vacation accommodations throughout the Outer Banks community. From Corolla down to South Nags Head, you will get your bang for your buck at our OBX vacation homes. With your family’s size, style, and budget in mind, we are excited to offer you some tips and tricks for celebrating the holidays with Atlantic Realty. Keep reading for more!

Seasons Greetings at Your OBX Holiday Vacation

There are year-round holiday celebrations in the Outer Banks, but for now, we’ll focus on the fall and winter seasons. Every month, there are holiday celebrations suited for families, lovers, friends, and all. Locals and tourists alike love staying in OBX because of the strong sense of community our towns provide to all.

For Thanksgiving, you can rest assured that your Atlantic Realty vacation home will be your home away from home. Our vacation homes and condos are all completely equipped with furnished kitchens, so you’ll be able to plan and cook a brilliant holiday meal. Incorporate these authentic North Carolina recipes into your Thanksgiving meal. We provide dishes, glassware, and silverware so you don’t have to worry about bringing anything but your loved ones, recipe ingredients, and an enormous appetite! If you don’t want to cook for yourself (you are on vacation, by the way), check out the ten best Outer Banks restaurants that offer takeout. It will make your holiday vacation extremely unique and relaxing if you are wondering what all you need to bring during your OBX holiday stay, check out our helpful What To Bring page.

If you want to celebrate Christmas and other related holidays, you will also be in the right place! We all know how stressful gift shopping can be, but when you are in OBX, you’ll be amazed at the ease and convenience our local shops offer locals and tourists alike. Come Christmas morning, there’ll be a bounty of unique surprises under the tree—you’ll have to bring your own tree. After grabbing some gifts, attend Winter Lights, the Outer Bank’s top holiday tradition. Inside, you’ll be able to stroll along several illuminated walkways of the Elizabethan Gardens. Hang out with Santa at Kitty Hawk Kites; this event is free. Check out some of the past Christmas and New Year’s events here, but be aware that some attractions may be closed, canceled, or experiencing shortened hours of operation.

Celebrate Your OBXmas with Atlantic Realty

Here at Atlantic Realty, we believe your barrier island experience begins when you check in to one of our OBX vacation accommodations. We have a selective portfolio of affordable Outer Banks homes, from oceanfront luxury properties to quaint condos. You’ll be right at home during your OBX holiday vacation. Book your stay with us online today!

September 15, 2021May 31, 2022

Get Ready for a Spooktacular OBX Fall Vacation

Head down OBX this fall and stay with Atlantic Realty for exclusive vacation amenities and specials! The entire family will have a great, spooktacular OBX fall vacation as our barrier island community takes all things spooky, family, and fall-related very seriously. Since we are located on the southern East Coast, you will still enjoy nice weather and beautiful beach breezes. Who doesn’t want a beach vacation during the fall! We have compiled a comprehensive list of all the OBX fall things to do this year:

Plan your Fall Outer Banks Vacation today.

OBX Halloween and Fall Celebrations

Halloween on the North Carolina Outer Banks will undoubtedly be one to remember! Our barrier island towns are full of rich history, lore, and ghost tales. There is something for everyone to enjoy when you visit in the fall. Our beautiful state is home to one of America’s first “unsolved mysteries”: the vanishing 1587 settlement of Roanoke. In addition to that tantalizing historic event, we also have several less terrifying sights and activities, including shipwreck artifacts, pumpkin patches, and more. Check out this list of all the OBX Halloween and fall celebrations and sights:

Please note most businesses and activities are operating at limited capacity and times of operation. Make sure to call in advance of your visit. Atlantic Realty has a fantastic Fun N Sun Pass, which offers our guests exclusive access and discounts to several local attractions, businesses, and events. Call us at (877) 858-4795 for more information!

Plan Your Fall OBX Fall Vacation Today

Here at Atlantic Realty, we are dedicated to helping you find the perfect OBX vacation rental, no matter your preferred location, family size, or budget! Our friendly staff will know all the best OBX fall and Halloween things to do during your visit- just ask. Experience the OBX barrier islands like never before, whether it’s your first visit or you’re a returning guest. Book your stay with us online today!

September 2, 2021May 31, 2022

10 Things to Do This Autumn in The Outer Banks

Autumn is a great time to visit Outer Banks, North Carolina, especially after you finished binging the new season of Netflix’s popular TV show- Outer Banks. While you will not be going on any treasure hunts (that we know of), you will still be able to explore and enjoy our wonderful group of barrier islands, full of great cuisine, recreational activities, state parks, and so much more! Here at Atlantic Realty, our team is eagerly waiting for your arrival and cannot wait to help you plan the best autumn vacation in Outer Banks. We are truly where your barrier island experience begins! Follow our quick guide on the 10 things to do in autumn in the Outer Banks.

Autumn on the Outer Banks — Fall in Love with the Outer Banks this Autumn

Watch the sunset and eat sticky s’mores during a beach bonfire in Nags Head (beach fires are limited to certain beaches, so make sure to do your research before setting anything aflame)
Go birding at Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge, where over 400 migratory birds pass-through
Grab a pint at one of the top Outer Banks breweries to warm up on a breezy autumn night
Treat the family to an autumn Outer Banks lighthouse tour
Swing by in October for the annual Outer Banks Seafood Festival held in Nags Head
Dunk some staple Duck Donuts into a nice cup of joe to fully wake up for your day
Admire the wild horses during a trek through the beaches of Corolla, NC
Dine-in or grab take out from one of Outer Banks locally-owned restaurants
Reel in the various in-season fish during Outer Banks’ autumn shoulder-season
Explore the gorgeous Kitty Hawk Woods (bring some comfortable shoes)

Fall in Love with Outer Banks this Autumn

Atlantic Realty’s knowledgeable staff are ready to help you discover how special autumn can be in Outer Banks. With fewer crowds and traffic, your vacation will truly prove to be relaxing. Treat your entire family to an Outer Banks vacation with Atlantic Realty this autumn! From pet-friendly homes to beachside condos, there is something for everyone when you stay with us. Book your vacation online today- see you soon!