Cape Hatteras National Seashore

National Park

Nags Head, NC

Cape Hatteras National Seashore offers beach recreation across Bodie, Hatteras, and Ocracoke islands, including four campgrounds and permitted ORV access.

  • surf-fishing and beach fishing
  • kiteboarding, surfing, and windsurfing
  • swimming at lifeguarded beaches

Cape Hatteras National Seashore

National Park

Avon, NC

Cape Hatteras National Seashore, the nation’s first national seashore, offers beach recreation, lighthouse-climbing, camping, and permitted ORV access across three barrier islands.

  • Visitors seeking ocean beaches and swimming
  • Surf-fishing and kiteboarding
  • Travelers wanting oceanfront camping

Cape Hatteras National Seashore Bodie Island Lighthouse Nags Head, Nc

National Park

Nags Head, NC

Cape Hatteras National Seashore is the nation's first national seashore, offering lighthouse climbing, beaches, camping, and ranger-led programs across three barrier islands.

  • lighthouse climbing and sightseeing
  • camping near the ocean
  • surf-fishing and beach recreation

Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge

National Park

Manteo, NC

Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge combines access to more than 370 bird species with a 0.6-mile wildlife trail and kayak launching.

  • birdwatching and migratory waterfowl viewing
  • short wildlife hikes along the North Pond Wildlife Trail
  • surf or sound fishing

Cape Hatteras National Seashore

National Park

Nags Head, NC

Cape Hatteras National Seashore preserves parts of Bodie, Hatteras, and Ocracoke islands and offers four campgrounds across the seashore.

  • Outer Banks beach recreation
  • surfing, kiteboarding, or windsurfing
  • surf-fishing and crabbing

Cape Hatteras National Seashore

National Park

NC

Cape Hatteras National Seashore preserves 30,351 acres of North Carolina’s Outer Banks from Bodie Island to Ocracoke Island.

  • visiting preserved Outer Banks coastline between Bodie Island and Ocracoke Island
  • exploring a National Park Service-managed seashore in North Carolina

National Park in nearby counties

FAQ

Does Cape Hatteras National Seashore allow beach driving?

Yes, designated areas allow off-road vehicle access to ocean and sound beaches, and a permit is required.

Can I camp at Cape Hatteras National Seashore?

Yes, four campgrounds are located across the national seashore, including oceanfront camping options.

Are ranger programs at Cape Hatteras National Seashore free?

Scheduled ranger-led programs are free and are offered for all ages.

Where can I go birdwatching near Hatteras Island?

Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge has more than 370 bird species and a 0.6-mile North Pond Wildlife Trail. Seasonal bird walks and other wildlife programs are also offered.

Are all Pea Island Refuge facilities and areas open?

The Visitor Center and its parking lot may remain closed during damage assessment, and some areas can close for bird or sea turtle protection.