As fall approaches on The Outer Banks, and offshore swells pile buckets of flotsam and jetsam onto the shore, Hatteras Island becomes a beachcomber’s paradise. With less visitors to compete over the best finds, and miles of sand to explore, this is the time when dedicated hunters of shells and sea glass alike get up early, grab extra Food Lion bags for treasures, and head out on a pilgrimage to the beach. Continue reading
With a population that swells in the summertime, Hatteras Island has its’ own unique challenge in going green. Many folks say that Hatteras Island can be a little behind the times when it comes to everyday life, and certainly time here seems to move at a slower pace than it does in the rest of the world, but visitors and locals alike have taken the initiative in making these sandy white beaches a little more green.
For the conservation savvy, there are a few recycling centers on Hatteras Island so you can stay green even while on vacation. The Chicamacomico Fire Station in Rodanthe and the Village Grocery Parking Lot in Avon both have drop-off centers that are accessible 24/7. Continue reading
The strange sea creatures of Hatteras Island
After a relaxing walk along the soundside of Avon, I nearly jumped out of my flip flops when I spotted a giant slimy fish with big droopy eyes looking up at me from a shallow canal. He was flat like a flounder, but a dark greasy brown, and had a wide mouth with pointy little teeth that were fixed in a dopey smile. Naturally, as with all things that I don’t understand, I poked at it with my index figure, and sure enough it twitched slightly with annoyance, but didn’t really move, and didn’t lose its dawdling grin.
From kayaking to kiteboarding, the island was made for those who just can’t stay out of the wind or water. It’s no wonder that thousands of people flock to the island from all over the world for its exceptional weather and water conditions, both on and off the beaches.
New to the island sporting scene? Then pick a sport, grab some gear, and get ready for a little exercise. Remember that equipment and lessons are available up and down the island at renowned local surf and sport shops, like Kitty Hawk Kites, REAL Kiteboarding, Avon Surf Shop, and Hatteras Island Board Sports. Call before you arrive to reserve a lesson or equipment rental, or simply stop by for information once you’re on the island. Continue reading
Every year, the National Park Service (NPS) offers seasonal programs to assist visitors in exploring all the wonders of the national seashore, and to pick up a new found education and appreciation of Hatteras Island beaches along the way.
The activities are typically 1-2 hour sessions, and are available at a number of NPS centers, and local attractions, including the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, Oregon Inlet fishing center, and the Hatteras Village Weather Station.
All of these programs are seasonal, typically running from the end of May until Labor Day weekend, and vary on location, dates and times, so it’s best to check out the NPS online calendar at http://www.nps.gov/caha/planyourvisit/events.htm or call (252) 473-2111 to find out about the programs available during your vacation.
Looking for an easy to use, comprehensive map to find just about everything there is to see, do, and explore on Hatteras Island? No worries. Simply click on the link below to view our Community Walk map with locators for most of the stores, restaurants, businesses, fishing centers, ORV ramps, post offices, on the island.
Finding everything on Hatteras Island is a breeze with this easy-to-use guide.
http://www.communitywalk.com/surf_or_sound_realty/map/196084