The sound of ocean waves, the starry night sky, or the calm of the salt marshes, you can experience it all. Shaped by the forces of water, wind, and storms these islands are ever changing. The plants, wildlife, and people who live here adapt continually. Whether you are enjoying the beach, kayaking the sound, or climbing the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse there is something for everyone to explore!
Rip Currents are common at the seashore. Learn tips to be safe.
Spending time on the sandy beaches of Cape Hatteras National Seashore is a memorable experience, no matter your activity level.
Visit the Cape Chronicle blog for resource & off-road vehicle management updates, interpretive information, & employee-submitted articles.
From the third Friday in April through Columbus Day, the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse and the Bodie Island Lighthouse are open for climbing.
Sea turtles are summertime visitors to Cape Hatteras National Seashore beaches. For public nest excavations, call 252–475–9629.
Off-road vehicle use is allowed in certain areas of Cape Hatteras National Seashore, for both sound and ocean access.
Four campgrounds are located across Cape Hatteras National Seashore, providing an immersive experience of the barrier islands.
Learn about those who came before us at Cape Hatteras National Seashore.
Learn about the diverse wildlife at Cape Hatteras National Seashore.
Accessible Features at Cape Hatteras National Seashore
Last updated: July 9, 2019