Top Things to do in Hatteras Island
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10 Nature & Parks in Hatteras Island That You Shouldn't Miss
Hatteras Island is a barrier island off the coast of North Carolina, on the Atlantic Ocean. Famed for its lighthouse and long sandy beaches, it is a great family friendly place for a relaxing holiday. Many people visiting Hatteras Island will be looking for a beach holiday, and the long sandy beaches looking out over the Atlantic Ocean are well worth exploring - even at the height of summer or the 4th of July weekend you can usually find a good stretch of beach all to yourselves. Canadian Hole, between the towns of Buxton and Avon, is a particularly good spot. In addition to the beach itself, the waters of Pamlico Sound are perfect for wading, and tourists flock there as the conditions are perfect for windsurfing and kite boarding. In terms of sightseeing there is also the lighthouse, which was moved inland in 1999 to protect it from coastal erosion, and the 825 acre Buxton Coastal Reserve, an area of maritime woodland full of spectacular wildlife (there have even been sightings of bald eagles) and plenty of hiking trails for those members of the family looking for a bit more exercise.
Restaurants in Hatteras Island
1. Cape Hatteras National Seashore
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 563 reviews
A national seashore preserve that has the most extensive stretch of undeveloped seashore along the Atlantic coast.
Reviewed By mikelK1251FN - Clinton, United States
We had a great time here, clean, plenty of space, I recommend you get an off road vehicle permit and drive on the beach.
2. Frisco Beach
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 162 reviews
Reviewed By dzc00k - Arlington, United States
We stayed in Frisco and loved this beach. Great waves, easy parking and access to the beach itself, bathroom and shower as well. Plenty of space to roam on the beach.
3. Cape Point Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 16 reviews
Beach located along North Carolina's Outer Banks that is recommended for surfing.
4. Canadian Hole
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 87 reviews
Beach located along North Carolina's Outer Banks that is recommended for windsurfing.
Reviewed By heatherw750
Great place to watch the kite surfers and sunset. Loved the easy walk to the beach and shallow waters, but the rough sand and muddy bottom was not for us. We prefer the ocean side.
5. Salvo Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 58 reviews
Reviewed By P403BGtraceym - Bluemont, United States
The ocean side had strong waves and riptides so we went to the Sound side and discovered Salvo Beach. The parking is ample, the bathrooms and changing rooms are conveniently located and kept very clean. The water is shallow and calm so it makes it ideal for young children. The beach was not overly crowded. We had plenty of room for four chairs and a cooler. We would recommend this beach!!
6. North Pond Trail
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 12 reviews
This half-mile trail, which offers spectacular wildlife observation year-round, is fully disabled accessible.
7. Hatteras Island Horseback Riding
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 26 reviews
Affordable horseback riding on the beautiful Hatteras, NC beach. No age limit. 100% on the beach. Strictly walking. To protect the horses we enforce a 200 lb weight limit. Our horses are kid friendly and safe. Helmets provided. Great for a couple or a group. Romantic sunset rides (adults only). No experience needed. Create memories that last a lifetime. Reservations required.
Reviewed By bigetan - Severna Park, United States
We drove 2 hours south from Kitty Hawk to surprise our kids with a horseback ride on the beach! It was worth the 2 hour drive! The kids walked freely on 2 beautiful horses, Gus and Shadow, along the beach. The horses were extremely calm and well-trained. There were 2 very kind and personable guides that walked beside the horses. The horses walked on the beach and in the surf. They walked the whole time, so perfect for young kids. They even let mom ride with son for a portion of the ride. They also were very friendly in taking lots of family pictures we asked them to take. They sanitized the provided helmets before giving them to our kids. They also allowed our kids to feed the horses carrots (which we brought with us) after the ride. The kids LOVED this part! We wore shorts, shirts and water shoes - no need for jeans or tennis shoes. This is definitely a casual beach ride, no shoes is fine! We would highly recommend making a day of your trip down here. We wish we would’ve brought our bathing suits and beach gear, as the beach down here is calm, clear, not crowded and beautiful! There are also tons of amazing shells to collect!
8. Buxton Woods Nature Trail
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 77 reviews
Reviewed By R_Traveler3 - Oak Ridge, United States
We were searching for an eastern cottonmouth and it didn’t take us long to find this beauty. Lots of snakes and wildlife here so be careful and keep your eyes open. Nice canopy and not overly busy (we saw one other couple). Great spot to check out after the lighthouse
9. New Inlet
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 7 reviews
Part of the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge, this area is ideal for fishing, canoeing, kayaking and enjoying nature.
