Things to Do on Hatteras Island
Hatteras Island is a place where time slows down and adventure comes naturally. With miles of unspoiled shoreline, rich maritime history, and endless opportunities for outdoor fun, this stretch of the Outer Banks offers something special for every type of vacationer. Whether you’re here for fishing, watersports, beach days, or exploring local culture, you’ll find unforgettable experiences waiting around every corner.
Hatteras Island is famous for its wide open, untouched beaches that offer space to spread out and reconnect. Enjoy sunrise walks, shell hunting, or simply relaxing by the ocean. Each village offers its own unique shoreline—perfect for swimming, surfing, sunbathing, or building sandcastles with the kids. With miles of coastline protected by the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, the beaches here are some of the most pristine on the East Coast.
With steady winds and warm shallow waters, the island is a premier destination for kiteboarding, windsurfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and more. The soundside villages of Rodanthe, Waves, and Salvo are home to some of the best watersports conditions on the East Coast. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or trying something new, local outfitters offer rentals and lessons for all ages.
No trip to Hatteras Island is complete without visiting the iconic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse in Buxton. As the tallest brick lighthouse in the United States, it offers spectacular views and a fascinating look at the island’s history of storms, shipwrecks, and heroic rescues. Even if you don’t climb, the surrounding park and museum make this a must-see stop.
Hatteras Island is a fishing paradise. From surf fishing and sound fishing to offshore excursions, anglers of all skill levels can reel in everything from red drum and flounder to mahi-mahi and tuna. Head to Hatteras Village for charter boats, or cast a line right from the beach in Avon, Buxton, or Frisco. Local bait shops, fishing piers, and expert guides make it easy to plan your perfect day on the water.
Each Hatteras Island village has its own small-town charm, with locally owned shops, galleries, and restaurants that showcase the island’s culture. Browse handmade crafts, pick up fresh seafood, enjoy a casual beachside meal, or treat yourself to ice cream after a day of exploring. Supporting local businesses is part of the Hatteras experience—and one of the best ways to feel like a local.
Explore maritime forests, soundside marshes, and hidden boardwalks throughout Avon, Buxton, and Frisco. Walking trails, birdwatching spots, and nature paths offer a chance to slow down and appreciate the island’s natural beauty. Bring your camera—you never know when you’ll catch a pelican gliding by, dolphins playing offshore, or a spectacular sunset over the Pamlico Sound.
Enjoy mini golf, ice cream shops, beach bonfires, educational programs at local nature centers, and more. Many families build their traditions here year after year—whether it’s flying kites in Rodanthe, climbing the lighthouse, or watching the sunset from a soundfront deck.
From Hatteras Village, hop on the free ferry to Ocracoke Island for a day trip full of history, shops, beaches, and the charming waterfront village. It’s a scenic ride and a wonderful way to experience another part of the Outer Banks during your stay.
Whether you’re relaxing on the beach, exploring local history, or spending quality time with the people who matter most, Hatteras Island is the perfect place to make memories that last a lifetime. Browse our vacation rentals and start planning your getaway today.
