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.