• Cape Hatteras Lighthouse – The tallest brick lighthouse in the U.S., this iconic structure in Buxton is a must-see. Visitors can climb the 257 steps for stunning views of the surrounding seashore.
• Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge – This protected area on the northern part of the island is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, kayaking, and spotting migratory birds, sea turtles, and other wildlife.
• Hatteras Village – The southernmost village on the island, Hatteras Village is known for its fishing charters, art galleries, and proximity to the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum, which showcases the island’s maritime history.
• Rodanthe Pier – A beloved spot for fishing and photography, the Rodanthe Pier offers a glimpse into the island’s coastal charm and is a favorite for watching sunrises over the Atlantic.
• Frisco Native American Museum – This small but fascinating museum in Frisco celebrates the island’s Indigenous history with artifacts, exhibits, and nature trails.
• Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station – Located in Rodanthe, this historic site honors the early days of sea rescue operations, featuring restored buildings, exhibits, and reenactments.
• Avon Beach – Known for its family-friendly vibe, Avon Beach offers calm waters, soft sand, and nearby amenities like restaurants and rental shops, making it perfect for a day at the beach.
• Hatteras-Ocracoke Ferry – Take the free ferry to Ocracoke Island for a scenic ride through Pamlico Sound. The journey offers incredible views and a chance to explore nearby Ocracoke’s quaint charm.
• Surfing and Kiteboarding – Hatteras Island is one of the best places on the East Coast for watersports. Popular spots like Canadian Hole and Cape Point attract surfers and kiteboarders from around the world.
• Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum – Located in Hatteras Village, this museum explores the history of shipwrecks along the treacherous waters of the Outer Banks. Learn about pirate lore, historic rescues, and maritime archaeology.

• Be Prepared for Weather Changes – The island’s coastal weather can change rapidly. Always carry sunscreen, a hat, and a light rain jacket for your adventures.
• Try Fresh Seafood – Local restaurants serve some of the best seafood on the East Coast. Be sure to try Hatteras clam chowder, soft-shell crab, and blackened tuna.
• Bring or Rent a 4WD Vehicle – Many of Hatteras Island’s beaches allow off-road driving. If you plan to explore, especially near Cape Point, a 4WD vehicle is highly recommended.
• Book Accommodations Early – Summer is peak season, and rentals fill up quickly. Book your stay well in advance, especially if you’re planning to visit between June and August.
• Pack Light for Ferry Rides – If taking the Hatteras-Ocracoke ferry, pack light to make your journey more comfortable. Consider bringing snacks and water for the ride.
• Respect Local Wildlife – The island is home to protected species like loggerhead sea turtles and piping plovers. Avoid disturbing nests and follow posted guidelines for wildlife conservation.
• Explore Beyond the Beaches – While the beaches are stunning, don’t miss the museums, historic sites, and quaint villages that showcase the island’s rich culture and history.
• Visit Early Morning or Evening – For popular attractions like the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, visit early or late in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
• Check Water Conditions – The Atlantic can be unpredictable, so always check water conditions before swimming or surfing. Lifeguarded beaches are the safest for families.
• Support Local Businesses – From charming gift shops to family-run restaurants, shopping locally helps sustain the island’s economy and provides you with unique souvenirs and experiences.

• Hatteras Island Day at the Docks (September) – This festival celebrates the island’s maritime heritage with seafood tastings, live music, fishing contests, and activities for all ages.
• Outer Banks Seafood Festival (October) – A short trip from Hatteras, this event in Nags Head showcases the best of Outer Banks seafood, local crafts, and live entertainment.
• Hatteras Kiteboarding Festival (May) – Watersports enthusiasts gather on the island for kiteboarding competitions, lessons, and demonstrations.
• OBX Pirate Festival (August) – Learn about pirate history in the Outer Banks through reenactments, treasure hunts, and kid-friendly activities.
• Fourth of July Fireworks – Hatteras Island celebrates Independence Day with fireworks and community events, offering family-friendly fun under the stars.

What is the Island known for?
Hatteras Island is renowned for its pristine beaches, rich maritime history, and world-class water sports, especially kiteboarding and surfing. The iconic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse and its location as part of North Carolina's Outer Banks make it a favorite destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Is the Island a good destination for families?
Absolutely! Hatteras Island offers a range of family-friendly activities, including swimming, beachcombing, kayaking, and exploring historical sites like the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. Its relaxed pace and welcoming atmosphere make it ideal for a family vacation.

Is the Island a safe destination for tourists?
Yes, Hatteras Island is a very safe destination for visitors. Local communities are friendly, and the area is well-maintained and accommodating for travelers.

Do you need a visa to visit the Island?
If you are traveling from outside the United States, you may need a visa depending on your country of origin. Check the U.S. State Department’s visa requirements to ensure proper documentation for your visit.

What is the best way to get to the Island?
The most common way to reach Hatteras Island is by car, via North Carolina Highway 12. Visitors can also use the ferry service connecting Ocracoke Island to Hatteras Village. The closest major airports are Norfolk International Airport (ORF) and Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU).

Should I rent a car on the Island?
Yes, renting a car is recommended for exploring Hatteras Island. The island is long and narrow, and having a car makes it easy to visit different beaches, lighthouses, and villages.

Is the Island wheelchair accessible?
Hatteras Island offers good accessibility, with boardwalks to several beaches, accessible facilities at the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, and many shops and restaurants accommodating wheelchair users. However, some sandy areas may be harder to navigate.

What are the Island’s most famous landmarks?
The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is the most iconic landmark on the island, known as the tallest brick lighthouse in the United States. Other notable landmarks include the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum and the Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station Historic Site.

What are the best beaches on the Island?
Hatteras Island boasts miles of unspoiled beaches. Highlights include Avon Beach for family-friendly swimming, Buxton Beach for surfing, and the beaches near Hatteras Village for quieter, more secluded spots.

What is unique about the Island’s wildlife?
Hatteras Island is part of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore and is home to diverse wildlife, including loggerhead sea turtles, dolphins, and various shorebirds. The Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching.

What traditional foods should you try on the Island?
Seafood is a must-try on Hatteras Island. Local favorites include fresh shrimp, oysters, blue crab, and the iconic Hatteras clam chowder. Many restaurants in the area offer waterfront dining with local catches.

Can you drink tap water on the Island?
Yes, tap water on Hatteras Island is safe to drink, but some visitors opt for bottled water due to the taste of the local supply.

What is the nightlife like on the Island?
Hatteras Island offers a laid-back nightlife scene with waterfront bars, live music, and family-friendly events. It’s more about relaxing and enjoying the coastal vibes than high-energy nightlife.

How can I stay connected to the internet on the Island?
Most accommodations, restaurants, and cafés offer Wi-Fi. Mobile networks are generally reliable, though some remote areas may have weaker signals.

What are some local souvenirs to bring home from the Island?
Popular souvenirs include handcrafted nautical décor, local art, Cape Hatteras Lighthouse memorabilia, and unique jewelry made from beach glass or shells. Local shops also offer delicious preserves, spices, and seafood seasonings.

• Billy Mitchell – Known as the "Father of the U.S. Air Force," Billy Mitchell conducted historic bombing tests near Hatteras Island in 1921 to demonstrate the strategic importance of air power. His work had a lasting impact on military aviation.
• Alexander Hamilton – The Graveyard of the Atlantic is said to have claimed ships connected to Alexander Hamilton’s time as Secretary of the Treasury, tying the island to U.S. maritime history.
• Blackbeard (Edward Teach) – The infamous pirate Blackbeard frequented the waters around Hatteras Island, and his ship, the Queen Anne’s Revenge, was wrecked nearby, linking his legend to the island’s lore.
• Orville and Wilbur Wright – While not directly tied to Hatteras Island, the Wright brothers made their first flight at nearby Kitty Hawk, just north of the island, marking the Outer Banks as a pivotal location in aviation history.
• Frank Stick – A conservationist and artist, Stick was instrumental in establishing the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, ensuring the preservation of Hatteras Island’s natural beauty for generations to come.
• Aycock Brown – A journalist and photographer, Brown helped promote Hatteras Island and the Outer Banks as premier tourist destinations with his evocative images and stories.
• Rasmus Midgett – A life-saving hero, Rasmus Midgett single-handedly rescued 10 shipwreck survivors near Hatteras Island in 1899, becoming a local legend.
• Richard Etheridge – The first African-American keeper of a U.S. Life-Saving Station, Etheridge served on nearby Pea Island and is celebrated for his heroic rescues and dedication to maritime safety.
• Lawrence S. Earley – A historian and writer, Earley’s work on Hatteras Island’s fishing and maritime culture has preserved its history and highlighted its significance to coastal communities.
• Rachel Carson – While not a resident, the famed conservationist and author visited Hatteras Island and highlighted its importance in her works on coastal ecosystems.

• Nights in Rodanthe (2008) – This romantic drama, starring Richard Gere and Diane Lane, was filmed in the village of Rodanthe. The iconic beach house from the movie became a local landmark and is a must-see for fans.
• The Lost Colony (Documentary) – Several documentaries about the mysterious disappearance of the Roanoke Colony have featured Hatteras Island and its surroundings as key locations for the story.
• Outer Banks (Netflix Series) – Although primarily filmed in South Carolina, the popular Netflix series takes inspiration from the geography and culture of the Outer Banks, including Hatteras Island.
• Graveyard of the Atlantic (History Channel) – This series explores shipwrecks and maritime history, with episodes focusing on the treacherous waters surrounding Hatteras Island.
• Eastbound & Down (HBO Series) – Some scenes of this comedy-drama, starring Danny McBride, were filmed in coastal North Carolina, with settings inspired by Hatteras Island’s landscapes.
• Message in a Bottle (1999) – Though primarily shot elsewhere, the Outer Banks, including Hatteras Island, provided inspiration and some background footage for this romantic film.
• Coastal North Carolina Travelogues – Numerous travel shows and documentaries have highlighted Hatteras Island’s unique culture, beaches, and history.
• The Outer Banks Movie (1952) – This classic film explores life along the Outer Banks, with scenes capturing Hatteras Island’s fishing communities and scenic beauty.
• Surviving the Atlantic (National Geographic) – Featuring the Graveyard of the Atlantic, this documentary includes footage of Hatteras Island while delving into the treacherous history of shipwrecks along the coast.
• Wild Surf (1965) – A vintage surfing movie, it showcased the East Coast’s growing surf culture, including scenes shot on Hatteras Island’s famous beaches.