08/10/08

Hatteras Island Attractions

The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

One of the most famous and recognizable in the world because of its black and white candy cane stripes, the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is a definite “must see” on every Hatteras Island vacation.
The lighthouse is located in Buxton and is open for climbing in the summer season for a small fee. At 208 feet, the steep narrow climb is not for the faint of heart. There is also a visitor’s center and gift shop, nearby nature trails, and a wooded picnic area.

A Day Trip to Ocracoke

Ocracoke Island is south of Hatteras Island and is accessed from Hatteras Village by a free ferry that leaves Hatteras Landing. The ferries depart hourly from 5 a.m. until midnight, and every half hour on heavy traffic days. Call (252) 986-2353 for more information on the Hatteras / Ocracoke ferry.
The village of Ocracoke is a small community, just 4 square miles in diameter. The Ocracoke lighthouse is the oldest lighthouse still in operation in America. You can park and stroll around the locally owned shops and restaurants and catch a sparkling sunset over Silver Lake Harbor.

Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge

The Pea Island National Wildlife refuge is a very popular and valued feeding and resting area for migrating waterfowl and many other bird species. More than 265 species are known to visit the area regularly.
Winter, spring and fall provide ample opportunity for bird watching. Bird walks, canoe and kayaking tours, and children’s programs are scheduled regularly during the summer.

Chicamacomico Lifesaving Station

Tour this historic flagship lifesaving station, built in 1874 and renowned as one of the most complete and in tact lifesaving stations in the US. In the summer months, the station also offers fun family activities, including a lifesaving reenactment on the beach. For information and visiting hours, call (252) 987-1552.

Canadian Hole / AKA The Haul Over

Known as one of the best launching points for windsurfing in the world, the spacious sound beach known as the “Canadian Hole” is an ideal watery playground for little ones. With shallow water and no waves, this locale provides ideal swimming conditions for kids, and on-premise bathrooms and changing stations. Located between Avon and Buxton.

Kite Point

Adjacent to Canadian Hole, just ¼ – ½ mile along the sandy sound beach, is Kite Point. Known as the spot on Hatteras Island where kite boarding first took flight, many kite boarding enthusiasts flock here to launch for its wide beach perfect for rigging, and miles of shallow, waist deep water.

Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum

Hatteras Island’s newest museum, opened in 2004, is one of the most innovative maritime facilities in the nation.
Shaped like an arc itself, the museum features artifacts from many of the historic shipwrecks claimed by the shoals of the “Graveyard of the Atlantic”, the name given to the shores of the Outer Banks. Guests may also see artifacts and learn about Hatteras Island’s own rich maritime history.

Frisco Native American Museum

Learn more about the Native Americans that have inhabited Hatteras Island for hundreds of years. The museum is a non-profit educational foundation and has many exhibits as well as a nature trail through the Frisco maritime forest.

Tennis & Golf

Public tennis courts are located on NC Highway 12 in Buxton at the Fessenden Center and at the Cape Hatteras School. Community tennis courts are located throughout the island in premier subdivisions such as Kinnakeet Shores.
Ocean Edge Golf Course off NC Highway 12 in Frisco is a 9 hole executive course. Call (252) 995-4659 for rates and hours.

Fan Photo Friday

Just one of many reasons to love Hatteras Island… Thanks to Michelle Badhorn Hall for sharing this gorgeous Buxton sunset photo to our Facebook page!

Meet the "Real" Taffy

Have you ever heard of the wildly popular book, Taffy of Torpedo Junction? If not, you are missing a real Carolina treat! This fictional novel recounts the daring antics of 13-year old Taffy Willis during World War II on Hatteras Island. You will be swept along on a thrilling adventure with Taffy as she experiences […]

The Inaugural Hatteras Island Community Fair Is Sure To Be A Fun Family Event

Surf or Sound Realty is a proud sponsor of the inaugural Hatteras Island Community Fair, happening Saturday, November 19 from 2-8pm on the grounds of Cape Hatteras Secondary School in Buxton! The theme of the fair is “Celebrating the Spirit of Hatteras Island“. Neighbors from Ocracoke and the northern Outer Banks are most welcome as […]

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