Tag Archives: Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

08/29/12

Let the moon be your guide…

this Friday night! Purchase your tickets for the second Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Full Moon Tour of the month!
Tickets should to be purchased in person at the lighthouse ticket booth in Buxton between 8:15am and 5:40pm. Tickets are $7 for adults and $3.50 for children. Be sure to bring your flashlight for the climb.

Did you know that the month of August boasts two full moons? The first full moon (Full Sturgeon Moon) fell on the very first day of the month and the second full moon falls on this Friday, the very last day of the month. Friday’s full moon is known as the Full Red Moon, an Algonquin name.
Many people know of the second full moon in a month as the Blue Moon, which only occurs approximately every 2.5 years or “once in a blue moon,” and therefore is not to be confused with August’s Full Red Moon. The blue moon obtained it’s name due to it’s blue tint when seen through atmospheric layers of smoke or volcanic dust.

In case you didn’t catch the first full moon of the month, August is proud to bring you another, so be sure to bask it’s it glory (at the top of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse)!

08/20/12

OBX Events August 25-September 2

Activities and entertainment await you here on the OBX! There are many exciting events to keep you and your party entertained all week long! There is truly something for everyone! Be sure to check out our list for the week and mark your calendars!

SATURDAY, AUGUST 25

13th Annual Kitty Hawk Ocean Games and Surf Kayak Competition, Ramada Plaza, Kill Devil Hills.
~Spectators can enjoy a surf kayak competition and a standup paddleboard competition, while catching the beginning and end of a 3 mile race. Try out one of Kitty Hawk Kite’s kayaks or SUPs and see what the craze is all about.

Fish Fry, Hatteras Village and Avon Village, 5-7pm.
~Does fried local fish, hushpuppies, cole slaw, and potato salad sound like the perfect Hatteras Island dinner? We think so! Head to the Hatteras Fire Station at 57689 Hwy 12 or the Avon Fire Station at 40159 Harbor Rd. for a delicious meal, hosted by the Ladies Auxilary.

Live music with Hal, Channel Bass Restaurant, Hatteras, 8pm.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 26
Outer Banks Hotline Event, Beach Klub, Avon, 4pm.
~A community event in memory of Lynn Jackenheimer and other victims of domestic violence, as well as and opportunity to express appreciation and gratitutde to law enforcement, first responders’, and the community for their response to Lynn’s family and friends.

ALL WEEK LONG

National Park Service programs, Hatteras Island.
~Check out their selection of summer programs by clicking here…

YOGA on the beach, Beach Klub, Avon, 8-9:30am.
~Bring a yoga mat and get your day started off on the right track!

Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum Summer Programs, Hatteras.
~Monday-Friday, programs are offered by Friends of the Graveyard of the Atlantic for further exploration and discovery if our maritime heritage. For complete information and details, visit the Museum on the web.

Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station Summer Programs, Rodanthe, 2pm.
~Monday-Friday at 2pm, join The Chicamacomico Historical Association for an afternoon of entertainment ranging from talks with local historians to dramatic demonstrations by the U.S. Coast Guard. Visit the Station’s website for program details.

Studio 12, Avon.
~Feeling creative? Studio 12 offers lots of fun classes, including mosaic stepping stones, glass fusion picture frames, suncatchers, and jewelry. Be sure to visit their website for class details.

Indian Town Gallery, Frisco.
~Offering fantastic weekly classes. Check out their Facebook page for details.

LIVE MUSIC featuring local musicians EVERY NIGHT of the week, Atlantic Coast Cafe, Avon, 6-9pm.

MONDAY, AUGUST 27

Karaoke, String Wray’s Restaurant, Rodanthe, 9pm.

The Wilders, REAL Watersports, Waves, 6-10pm.
~Enjoy free LIVE music with a spectacular view in a family/group friendly atmosphere.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 28

Hatteras Kite Week, Tues.-Mon., Sept. 3.
~Hatteras Kite Week offers the public a chance to check out free kiteboarding gear clinics from the pros. For more info call 1-877-FLY-THIS.

Hatteras Island Farmer’s Market, Avon, 9am-1pm.

REAL Watersports Kids Camp, Waves, Tues.-Thurs., 10am-4pm.
~Kids ages 7-12 will have a chance to learn how to have fun and be confident in the water! They will experience paddleboarding, kiteboarding, and surfing, with an emphasis on water safety. Cost is $595 per child, which includes lunch from Mojo’s Sunset Cafe. Click here to sign up!

Kitty Hawk Kites Kid’s Day, Avon 10am-12pm, Hatteras, 3-5pm.
~A fun-filled free opportunity to climb a rock wall, shoot water guns, have your face painted, and try out the latest toys and games!

FREE Soundside Snorkel, 2:30-4pm.
~Pre register in person at the Hatteras Island Museum. All equipment will be provided. Limited to 20 participants. For more information, call 995-4474.

Turtle Talk program, Pea Island Visitor Center, 2:30-3:30pm.

Music on the Deck, Sandbar & Grille, Buxton, 7-11pm.

Live music with Hal, Channel Bass Restaurant, Hatteras, 8pm.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 29

Bird Walk, Pea Island Visitor Center, 8am.

Bird Adaptations program, Pea Island Visitor Center, 2:30-3:30pm.
~Learn about the adaptations birds need in order to survive, then try your hand at building your own bird.

Kitty Hawk Kites Kid’s Day, Waves 4-6pm.
~A fun-filled free opportunity to climb a rock wall, shoot water guns, have your face painted, and try out the latest toys and games!

BINGO, Cape Hatteras Anglers Club, 47231 Light Plant Rd, Buxton, 6pm.

Music on the Deck, Sandbar & Grille, Buxton, 7-11pm.

Bluegrass Jam at Banjo Island/Red Drum Pottery, Frisco, 7pm.
~Enjoy local musicians at the “Wednesday Happening” OR bring your instrument and join them!

LIVE music, Ketch 55, Avon 9pm.

LIVE music, String Wray’s Restaurant, Rodanthe.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 30

Bird Walk, Pea Island Visitor Center, 8am.

FREE Soundside Snorkel, 2:30-4pm.
~Pre register in person at the Hatteras Island Museum. All equipment will be provided. Limited to 20 participants. For more information, call 995-4474.

Soundside Adventure, New Inlet, 2:30-3:30pm.

Mojo Collins, REAL Watersports, Waves, 6-10pm.
~Enjoy free LIVE music with a spectacular view in a family/group friendly atmosphere.

Steve Howser, Good Winds Seafood & Wine Bar, Rodanthe, 6-10pm.

Open Mic, Saltwater Cafe, Stowe on Twelve, Hatteras, 8-11pm.
~All artists welcome! Come enjoy food, drink, & music at this great outdoor venue.

Karaoke, String Wray’s Restaurant, Rodanthe, 9pm.

Karaoke, Sandbar & Grille, Buxton, 10pm.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 31

Arts and Crafts Show, Indian Town Gallery, Frisco, 10am-5pm.

Bird Walk, Pea Island Visitor Center, 8am.

The Break, Good Winds Seafood & Wine Bar, Rodanthe, 6-10pm.

Full Moon Tour of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, Buxton.
~Tickets are $7 for adults and $3.50 for children and can be purchased in-person, starting August 29th at the lighthouse ticket booth from 8:15am to 5:40pm. Be sure to bring your flashlight!

LIVE MUSIC every Friday night, Buxton.
~Mad Crabber
~Pop’s Raw Bar and Restaurant
~Capt’n Rolo’s

SATURDAY, September 1

Arts and Crafts Show, Indian Town Gallery, Frisco, 10am-5pm.
Demo Daze, REAL Watersports, Waves.
~Venture over to REAL Watersports in Waves and try out new 2012 and 2013 gear for FREE! Pre registration is required. Visit their website for more info.
Fish Fry, Hatteras Village and Avon Village, 5-7pm.
~Does fried local fish, hushpuppies, cole slaw, and potato salad sound like the perfect Hatteras Island dinner? We think so! Head to the Hatteras Fire Station at 57689 Hwy 12 or the Avon Fire Station at 40159 Harbor Rd. for a delicious meal, hosted by the Ladies Auxilary.

Hurrah Players present FOOTLOOSE, PapaWack Theatre, Beach Klub, Avon.
~Stop by Spa Koru in Avon for tickets or purchase them at the door the night of the performance.

Live music with Hal, Channel Bass Restaurant, Hatteras, 8pm.

ENJOY YOUR WEEK!!!

05/22/12

WE ARE #1!


U.S. News and World Reports has ranked the Outer Banks as the Top Family Beach Vacation in the USA!
It’s official! The Outer Banks is the place to come to truly vacation!
Miles and miles of vast, unspoiled beaches await you on this slender stretch of barrier islands. There is beauty around every bend and twist, whether it’s Corolla’s wild horse population, Jockey’s Ridge State Park, Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge, or the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. There is something to pick everyone’s interest and invite you to explore the #1 Family Beach in the USA!
Experience world-class fishing, as well as the #1 surfing and kiteboarding destination on the East Coast. The Outer Banks also abounds with rich history and exciting exhibits!
Relax, explore, adventure, and immerse yourself in the Outer Banks! Afterall, we’re #1!
See you in the Outer Banks!

03/23/12

Picture of the Week

US Flag at Cape Hatteras Lighthouse by Charles B. Richardson

US Flag at Cape Hatteras Lighthouse by Charles B. Richardson


We can’t think of a more iconic image to represent summer in America than this picture submitted by Charles B. Richardson. The US flag waves proudly in front of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, also known as “America’s Lighthouse”. The lighthouse opens for climbing on April 20th. Make plans to stop by this main attraction while you’re on the island.

07/12/11

Full Moon Tour of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse!

The National Park Service offers full moon tours of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse throughout the season, providing a very special experience for visitors. This Friday evening, July 15th, climbers will get a glimpse of what the lighthouse keepers of old were able to experience – seeing that beam of light reaching out to sea and the beautiful reflection of the newly risen moon on the ocean.

Two tours are given, one at 8:15 p.m. and a second at 9:15 p.m. Each tour is limited to 30 people. This is a truly unique and memorable experience for your Hatteras Island vacation on the Outer Banks that you don’t want to miss!

Get your tickets today! The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Full Moon Tour tickets must be purchased in advance at the lighthouse ticket booth, located at the lighthouse site in Buxton village. The ticket booth is open from 8:15 a.m. – 5:40 p.m. daily.
There are no lights inside the lighthouse and climbers will navigate the 257 stair staircase using handheld flashlights. During the climb, park rangers provide stories of the arduous duties of the lighthouse keeper. From the watch room, visitors will be able to view the light up close and in motion and hear of the operation of the beacon, past and present – a truly unique experience.

Things to Know Before You Go:

1. Full Moon Tour tickets are limited to the first 60 purchasers and must be purchased in person, in advance, at the lighthouse ticket booth. Full Moon Tour ticket sales will begin a few days in advance of the scheduled tour. It is anticipated that tickets will sell out early. Standard admissions fees apply – $7 for adults, and $3.50 for children (11 and under) as well as seniors (62 and older).

2. Each participant must bring a handheld flashlight with fresh, serviceable batteries.

3. All participants are required to be at least 42 inches tall and must climb the steps on their own – they cannot be carried! If unsure, check with the Rangers before purchasing your non-refundable ticket. Also, keep in mind that some youngsters, although meeting height requirements, may not enjoy the dimly lit, sometimes claustrophobic environment.

4. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

5. For safety reasons, all participants must climb and descend with the group. No exceptions.

6. Know your limitations! The lighthouse is tall, dark, often hot, humid, and can be a challenge to climb. There are no internal lights or air conditioning.

7. All routine lighthouse safety requirements, as well as restrictions as to eating, drinking, gum, etc., apply. This information will be provided to you when you purchase your ticket.

8. Tickets are non-refundable. If the program is cancelled due to weather, the ticket holder may exchange the ticket the following morning, between the hours of 8:15 a.m. and 9:15 a.m. for a replacement ticket useable only on that following day. This ticket will be for day climbing only.

06/24/11

Hatteras Island Events: This Week on the Outer Banks

We’ve compiled the best Hatteras Island activities, events and fun things to do on the Outer Banks for June 26 to July 1st. Below you will find events just for the kids, just for adults, family events, evening events and a lot of FREE activities to make your Hatteras Island vacation unforgettable!

    FOR THE KIDS

June 28, 29 & 30th
Kids Painting Workshop
Time: 10:30-11:45 AM. Location: SeaWorthy Gallery -58401 South Highway 12, Hatteras village

This unique art camp, instructed by Professional Artist, Elizabeth Eubanks, is designed to create a fun and relaxed art experience for your child, plus they get to create their very own take home painting each day. $15 Class Fee- Includes supplies. Call 252-986-6510 or visit seaworthygallery.com

June 27, 28, 30, July 1
National Park Service Program: Especially for Kids

Time: 11:00 am to 11:45 am. Location: Hatteras Island Visitor Center at the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. This program offers hands-on activities that allow kids to have fun learning about the seashore. Check at the visitor center to learn the topic of the day. Free for all ages.

June 28 – 30
REAL Kids Camp

Time: 10am – 4pm. Location: REAL Watersports in Waves village

Get your son or daughter into the water in a safe and positive instructional environment with the REAL Kids Camp! Let the coaches at REAL show your kids the ropes in and around the water. Surfing, Kiteboarding, Standup Paddleboarding and more. Ages 7-12. Call for information: (866)REAL-548 | (252)987-6000 or visit: REALWatersports.com

June 28
Free Kid’s Day with Kitty Hawk Kites

2 locations and times: 10am -12pm in Hatteras Village -at Hatteras Landing Shops, next to the ferry and 4pm – 6pm in Avon village
Shoot water guns, get your face painted, and try out the newest toys and games. For more information, visit kittyhawk.com

June 29
Free Kid’s Day with Kitty Hawk Kites

4pm -7pm at the Kitty Hawk Kites store in Rodanthe at Waves Village. Shoot water guns, get your face painted, and try out the newest toys and games. For more information, visit kittyhawk.com

    FOR THE BIG KIDS:

June 29
Adult Painting Class

Time: 1:00-3:00 PM. Location: SeaWorthy Gallery -58401 South Highway 12, Hatteras village

Professional Artist, Elizabeth Eubanks, shows you how to have fun creating a watercolor, landscape or seascape painting of Hatteras. The workshop is opened to all skill levels, beginners to advanced. You will have your own completed painting at the end of class. What a perfect vacation souvenir! $35 Class Fee-Includes all supplies. Class space is limited. Call 252-986-6510 to register or visit seaworthygallery.com

June 30
Sea Glass Wrapping Jewelry Class
Time: 10am – 2pm (Classes run 20-25 minutes and start on the ½ hour -reservations required!). Location: Indian Town Gallery – Mile post 65 in Frisco village

Learn to wrap a piece of sea glass into a necklace pendant with instructor Betty Kungle. Class size is limited to 8, so call early to make reservations! $10 per person plus a $5 kit fee which includes a piece of genuine sea glass! For more information call Indian Town Gallery at 252-995-5181 or visit indiantowngallery.com

July 1
Water Color Painting Class with Vicky Lowe
Time: 10am – noon. Location: Indian Town Gallery – Mile post 65 in Frisco village

Even beginners can learn to paint with water colors. In class, Instructor Vicky Lowe will set up beach orientated and floral models from which students will be coached how to paint. The cost is $30 and includes all materials. Class is limited to 8 people, so please pre-register. (Ask about kids classes, too!) For more information call Indian Town Gallery at 252-995-5181 or visit indiantowngallery.com


FOR THE FAMILY:

    July 1
    Beading Class -Make your own bracelet or anklet!

    Time: 2pm -5pm (Classes run 20-25 minutes and start on the ½ hour). Location: Indian Town Gallery – Mile post 65 in Frisco village

    This is a fun and enjoyable class for ages 7 and up! Students learn design and good color selection along with crimping skills so your jewelry will last a long time! The cost is $10 for the class and a $5 kit fee, which includes materials and use of tools. For more information call Indian Town Gallery at 252-995-5181 or visit indiantowngallery.com

      SUMMER PROGRAMS

    The Chicamacomico U.S. Lifesaving Station and the National Park Service offer Daily Summer Programs. Below are some fun events for you to check out during your Hatteras Island vacation!

    WHEN THE SUN GOES DOWN… Evening events on Hatteras Island offered by the Park Service

    June 28
    Evening Campfire

    Time: 8:00pm. Location: Buxton Lifeguarded Beach. -Spend an evening under the stars hearing stories of the Outer Banks. Topics may include shipwrecks, pirates, sea life, and legends. Bring a beach chair, a blanket, flashlight, and bug spray.

    June 29
    Night Lights

    Time: 8:30pm to 9:30pm. Location: Pre-register at Hatteras Island Visitor Center at the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. -Join a ranger for a short walk to search the tide line for glowing marine plankton and the sky for planets and constellations. Find out why protecting the dark is valuable to both people and wildlife.

    June 30
    Night Climb
    Time: 8pm and 9pm. Location: Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. -Enjoy a guided tour of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. ..at NIGHT!
    You will need to pre-purchase Night Climb tickets in person between 8:15 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. at the lighthouse ticket booth Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday on the week you intend to climb. Each program is limited to 30 participants and tickets are sold on a first come, first served basis. Tickets are non-refundable and children must be at least 42″ tall. Bring a flashlight!

    The Chicamacomico U.S. Lifesaving Station Summer Programs
    Time: All programs are at 2pm
    Location: Chicamacomico U.S. Lifesaving Station – 23645 NC Highway 12, or Milepost 39 ½ (Programs are outdoors and thus weather dependent. Programs are free with Regular Site Admission Fee)

    June 27

    Nights in Rodanthe the Movie — Behind the Scenes
    Nearly all exterior scenes were actually filmed right here in Rodanthe, where Chicamacomico is located. Site Operations Manager, Linda Molloy, was cast as Jill Torrelson opposite Richard Gere in a brief but pivotal role. Come get the scoop! Linda will autograph and personalize your book and DVD purchases here for a truly unique vacation souvenir. Chicamacomico U.S. Lifesaving Station

    June 28
    America’s Forgotten Heroes
    Discover the forgotten yet fascinating history of the United States Life-Saving Service, the original “Storm Warriors” who were the predecessors of today’s U.S. Coast Guard… Absorb the unbelievable details of actual rescues done here, especially the dramatic SS Mirlo story- the most highly awarded maritime rescue in U.S. history, right here! Chicamacomico U.S. Lifesaving Station

    June 29
    The Real Taffy Of Torpedo Junction
    This fictional novel tells the daring antics of an independent young teenager living on Hatteras Island during World War II. ‘Taffy” was based on the real-life Carol Dillon, Hatteras Island native. She will enthrall you with her stories of what was fiction and what was not.Chicamacomico U.S. Lifesaving Station

    June 30
    Beach Apparatus Drill
    The U.S. Life-Saving Service required all stations to practice this rescue method weekly. Chicamacomico is now one of only two places in the country– and the ONLY one to be performed by active-duty US Coast Guard personnel–that performs the complete Drill. It is recommended to arrive by 1:30. Chicamacomico U.S. Lifesaving Station

    July 1
    What Really Happened to “The Lost Colony”?
    Where did they go? Right here on Hatteras Island, where they actually first started. Scott Dawson’s compelling delivery will have you spellbound. Documentation & evidence abound. Chicamacomico U.S. Lifesaving Station

    FREE Park Service Events:

The Cape Hatteras National Park offers FREE Hatteras Island events for the family and kids of all ages.

Daily in the Summer:
Sentinel of the Shore

Time: Daily 12:00pm to 12:30pm and 2:00pm to 2:30pm. Location: Hatteras Island Visitor Center at the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. -Learn about the rich history of, and future plans for, the park’s majestic lighthouses.

Daily in the Summer
Hatteras Island – Pirates!

Time: Daily from 4:00pm to 4:30pm. Location: Hatteras Island Visitor Center at the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. -In the 1700’s, pirates frequently visited the Outer Banks. Find out why the area was so attractive to pirates and how the golden age of piracy dramatically ended.

June 27, 29, 30, July 1
Hatteras Island – Soundside Snorkeling

Time: 2:30 PM to 4:00 PM. Location: Pre-register at Hatteras Island Visitor Center at the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. -It’s not the Caribbean, but the shallow waters of the Pamlico Sound are home to an array of small fish, shrimp, and crabs. Limited to 20 participants.

June 27, 29, July 1
Civil War on the Outer Banks

Time: 5:00pm to 5:30pm. Location: Hatteras Island Visitor Center at the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. -Join a ranger for a view of the Outer Banks’ role in the Civil War!

June 28
Old Days at the Weather Station

Time: 3:30pm to 4:15pm. Location: Hatteras U.S. Weather Bureau Station, in the heart of Hatteras Village. -Join this tour of the restored Hatteras Weather Bureau Station and hear about the villagers who worked there during both tranquil and stormy times.

June 28, 30
Graveyard of the Atlantic

Time: 5:00pm to 5:30pm. Location: Hatteras Island Visitor Center at the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. -Countless ships have met their end off the Outer Banks. Learn how storms, shoals, war, and commerce have contributed to the wreckage, and hear stories of those who risked their lives to save the victims.

June 29
Explore the Shore: Beach Walk

Time: 8:00am to 9:00am. Location: Old Lighthouse site parking lot
Enjoy an early morning ranger-led walk across the undeveloped ocean beaches of Hatteras Island. Learn about this changing shoreline and the plants and animals that make this dynamic environment their home.

June 29
Cast Netting

Time: 9:30am. Location: Pre-register at the Hatteras Island Museum at the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. -Casting a net from shore is one of the oldest methods of fishing. Give it a try or just come to observe the action. You’re welcome to bring your own cast net. Wear wading shoes. Limited to 25 participants.

June 29
Seashore Arts

Time: 11:00am to 11:30am. Location: Hatteras Island Visitor Center at the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. -Get in touch with your artistic side and create a lasting memory of the seashore! Bring a cotton t-shirt or pillow case to create a seashore-inspired masterpiece. Limited to 16 participants.

June 30
Coast Guard Station Tour

Time: 3:30pm to 4:30pm. Location: Pre-register at Hatteras Island Visitor Center at the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. -The U.S. Coast Guard and its predecessor, the U.S. Life-Saving Service, have a long and heroic history on the Outer Banks. Sign up today and enjoy a unique tour of an active U.S. Coast Guard Station. Limited to 20 participants.

Outer Banks Events and Activities for the Family -North of Hatteras Island

    June 29 – July 1
    Kitty Hawk Kites Outer Banks Sand Sculpture Festival

    Location: Kitty Hawk Sports at Jockey’s Ridge Crossing shopping center across from Jockey’s Ridge MP 12 1/2 in Nags Head. -A professional sandsculpture company will be on hand to sculpture a huge sand creation. There will be fun events, raffles, and entertainment all day long. This is a benefit for the prevention of skin cancer. For more information, call 1-877-FLY-THIS or 252-441-4124 or visit kittyhawk.com

    June 28 & 29
    Outer Banks Daredevils Baseball Game
    The Daredevils are part of a summer collegiate baseball league offering experience for college players in a wood bat environment and a chance to refine skills for the pro level.

    Time: Gates open at 6 pm, game at 7pm. Location: First Flight High School Baseball complex. Just south of Wrights Bros. Memorial, off hwy 158 turn on Colington Road. For more information, call 252-202-1842 or visit: obxdaredevils.com

    Monday through Saturday
    74th Anniversary Season of The Lost Colony

    Time: 8:30pm. Location: Waterside Theatre, Roanoke Island. -Written by Pulitzer Prize winning playwright Paul Green, The Lost Colony tells the story of 117 men, women and children who vanished without a trace more than 400 years ago. Featuring lavish costumes designed by five-time Tony Award winner William Ivey Long and directed by Robert Richmond, the story comes to life summer nights at the open air Waterside Theatre. Children 12 and under $10.00, Group rates for 10 or more. Complete the experience with a Waterside Sunset Picnic and pre-show Backstage Tour at 7 p.m. Reservations required. Call (252) 473-3414 or visit thelostcolony.org

06/17/11

Celebrating Father's Day On Hatteras Island

Hatteras Island is a great place to celebrate Father’s Day! There are plenty of sights, attractions and activities to share with the number one guy in your life – Dad!

A great way to create lasting memories with Dad is by taking him fishing! Hatteras Island is know for its fantastic fishing. Whether you want to hop on a boat, hang out on the shore or take in the beautiful views, Hatteras Island offers a complete and unique fishing experience.
1. Charter fishing. What better way to spend time with Dad and the family than on a boat? Call Captain Steve Caldwell with Coastal Inshore Charters at (252) 986-2284 OR Captain Jay Kavanagh aboard the Bite Me at (252) 996-0295 to book your trip!
2. Surf Fishing. All you need is a chair, a cooler, a pole and a nice spot on the sand!
3. Pier Fishing. Avon Fishing Pier and Hatteras Island Fishing Pier in Rodanthe both have a blanket fishing license, so you don’t need to purchase one to fish from the pier. Also free? The spectacular views!

Frisco Rod and Gun is a great source for your fishing needs and has great gifts for Dad! They carry surf and offshore tackle and bait, rods, clothing, sunglasses, shoes and more! You can stock up on snacks and ice for your fishing adventure as well! Call them at (252) 995-5366 or visit them online www.friscorodgun.com.

Maybe Dad is more of the adventurous type. Hatteras Island is known to have some of the best kiteboarding in the world! If kiteboarding isn’t Dad’s thing there’s always surfing, standup paddleboarding, hang gliding, parasailing and kayaking. Kitty Hawk Kites and REAL Watersports are two places that offer apparel, lessons and rentals for the thrill seeking beginners and families!
Kitty Hawk Kites – Locations in Waves, Hatteras and Ocracoke. 1-877-359-8447.
REAL Watersports – Located in Waves. (252) 987-6000.
Fox Watersports – Located in Buxton and Hatteras. A great place for your adrenaline needs and apparel! (252) 995-4102.

Another great way to celebrate Dad’s day is by visiting some of the local historical sights and taking in the attractions.
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse – One of the most famous and recognizable lighthouses in the world. Located in Buxton. Cost: $7 for adults; $3.50 for senior citizens and children 11 and under. There is also a visitors center and gift shop, nearby nature trails and a wooded picnic area.
Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum – One of the most innovative maritime museums and facilities in the nation! For information and visiting hours call (252) 986-2995.
Chicamacomico Lifesaving Station– Take a tour of this historic flagship lifesaving station, built in 1874. Located in Rodanthe. For information and visiting hours, call (252) 987-1552.

If you are looking for the perfect gift for Dad, Hatteras Island offers many specialty items and a unique shopping experience!
Buxton Village Books – For the bookworm! Buxton, (252) 995-4240
Island Spice and Wine – One of a kind brews and wines! Avon, (252) 995-7750
Nags Head Hammocks – Avon, 1-800-344-6433

What do Dad’s love? Food! Let the amazing chefs on Hatteras Island take care of lunch or dinner!
Atlantic Coast Cafe. -2 locations: Avon at the Avon fishing pier (252) 995-7700; Waves (252)987-1200
Cafe Pamlico. Casual fine dining on Pamlico Sound in Buxton (252) 995-4500
Crazy Johnny’s Bar-B-Que. Catering for a relaxed meal at home or on the beach (252) 996-0711
Good Winds Restaurant. Soundfront in Rodanthe at Kitty Hawk Kites (252) 987-1100
Mojo’s Sunset Cafe. Soundfront at REAL Watersports in Waves (252) 987-1600
Nino’s Pizza. Hwy 12 in Avon -celebrating 30 years! (252) 995-5358

There are endless ways to spend time and create lasting memories with Dad on Hatteras Island. From everyone at Surf or Sound Realty, have a safe and happy Father’s Day!

06/15/11

Outer Banks Makes Coastal Living’s List For Best Coastal Bike Trails

Coastal Living just released its list of best coastal bike trails on its website. It came as no surprise to us that the Outer Banks made the list. Hatteras Island is known for its abundance of recreational activities, including a favorite past time for young and old – riding bikes.

For distance cyclists, there’s no better route than right along NC Highway 12. With a bike lane that extends for 55 miles, and a flat, even route throughout the entire stretch, (aka, no hills), Highway 12 attracts cyclists from all over the world who want to go the distance and enjoy some amazing scenery along the way.

Looking for a more leisurely ride? Explore the trails along the Pamlico Sound and maritime forests. For example, the National Park Service grounds around the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse offers a multitude of trails, or the Salvo Day Use Area has small paved unused roads winding along the sound. Many communities, like Wind Over Waves and Hatteras Colony in Salvo and Avon, are also perfect for bicyclists, with winding roads and little traffic. Kinnakeet in Avon and Hatteras Village are especially nice for bicycle rides with historic houses and scenic architecture and island historical spots.

If you didn’t bring your bikes with you on your vacation you can always rent them! Ocean Atlantic Rentals offers bike rentals, as well as rentals for just about all of your beach needs, and they offer delivery service! Visit them online at www.oceanatlanticrentals.com, or call their Hatteras store at (252) 995-5868.

05/9/11

Climbing the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

The iconic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is a favorite stop for visitors and locals alike. If you have not had the chance to climb the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, this video from The Coastal Studies Institute offers a fun and informative glimpse into the big climb and beautiful, breathtaking view from the top!

Climbing the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse from UNC-CSI on Vimeo.