Plan Your Visit

Visitors on the seashore near the old Cape Hatteras Lighthouse location
Families enjoying the beaches of Cape Hatteras National Seashore

National Park Service

 

Welcome to Cape Hatteras National Seashore!

There is much here for you to enjoy as you discover the unique natural, cultural, and recreational opportunities offered, preserved, and protected by the National Park Service on North Carolina's Outer Banks.

Surf-fishing, kiteboarding, surfing, swimming, windsurfing, crabbing, shell-collecting, nature-experiencing, lighthouse-climbing, sightseeing—we have this and more. By foot, bicycle or vehicle, we urge you to explore the seashore and create lasting memories for yourself and your family to be treasured in years to come. These dynamic barrier islands, with their diverse habitats and storied history, offer many exceptional experiences.

Whether it's active recreation, immersion into the natural world, or intellectual stimulation that you seek, National Park Service rangers are here to assist you in having an enjoyable and safe experience. We look forward to seeing you out on the seashore!

 
Superintendent Dave Hallac at Coquina Beach
Dave Hallac
Superintendent, Outer Banks Group
 

Plan Your Visit to Cape Hatteras

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse at Dusk

Basic Information

Operating Hours and Seasons, Directions, Addresses, Fees and Passes, Weather, Visitor Centers

Sunset at Cape Hatteras National Seashore

Directions and Transportation

Driving Directions to Cape Hatteras National Seashore

Three tents among the grassy dunes

Eating and Sleeping

Restaurant Information and Camping and Lodging Information

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse and Sea Oats

Places to Go

Sites to Visit Along Cape Hatteras National Seashore

Beachgoers with Fishing Pole and ORV

Things To Do

Recreational Activities Throughout Cape Hatteras National Seashore

Ranger with visitor and fishing pole

Calendar

View Upcoming Events and Programs at Cape Hatteras National Seashore

Law Enforcement Ranger at Traffic Checkpoint

Safety

Important Safety Information for Cape Hatteras National Seashore

Accessibility

Accessible Features at Cape Hatteras National Seashore

The Wright Brothers Monument on Big Kill Devil Hill

Nearby Attractions

Other National Park Service Sites In The Area

woman riding a horse on the beach

Commercial Services

Commercial Services at Cape Hatteras National Seashore

Last updated: August 20, 2025

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

Cape Hatteras National Seashore
1401 National Park Drive

Manteo, NC 27954

Phone:

252 473-2111

Contact Us