Learn About the Park

Visitor examining a blue crab
Visitor examining a blue crab

National Park Service

 

The First National Seashore

Cape Hatteras National Seashore, the nation’s first national seashore, was established in 1937 to preserve significant segments of unspoiled barrier islands along North Carolina’s stretch of the Atlantic Coast. Barrier islands are narrow, low-lying, dynamic landforms which parallel ocean coasts, are separated from the mainland, and are constantly moving and reshaping in response to storms, ocean currents, sea level changes, and wave and wind action. These processes continue to influence the islands today through the processes of erosion and accretion of the shoreline; overwash across the islands; and the formation, migration, and closure of the inlets.

 
  • Ranger with two children
    News

    News Releases for Cape Hatteras National Seashore

  • Photos and Multimedia

    Photos and Video From Cape Hatteras National Seashore

  • Officials at a press conference
    History and Culture

    The History and Culture of Cape Hatteras National Seashore

  • Sea Turtle in the sand
    Nature

    The Natural World of Cape Hatteras National Seashore

  • Ranger holding turtle eggs
    Science and Research

    The Science and Research Occurring at Cape Hatteras National Seashore

  • Rangers with school group
    Education

    Educational Programs at Cape Hatteras National Seashore

  • Ranger leading a beach clean-up program
    Kids and Youth

    Programs for Children at Cape Hatteras National Seashore

  • Sunrise over the ocean
    Management

    Management and Policies of Cape Hatteras National Seashore

  • Cape Hatteras Light Station bookstore
    Park Store

    Visit the Eastern National Park Stores at Cape Hatteras National Seashore

Last updated: November 3, 2021

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

Cape Hatteras National Seashore
1401 National Park Drive

Manteo, NC 27954

Phone:

252 473-2111

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