Planning A Day on Hatteras Island | Outer Banks, NC

By Outer Banks Visitors Bureau
Feb. 26, 2024

With deep historical roots and striking natural scenery, Hatteras Island invites visitors to take in its views, recreation, and coastal character. Spend time along the shoreline, try locally-loved restaurants, and enjoy the island’s entertainment choices. Its beautiful beaches offer room to unwind, dive into extreme watersports, or experience a unique horseback ride. Hatteras Island is ready to win you over with its many wonders.

Hatteras Island Beaches

Hatteras Island is home to Cape Hatteras National Seashore, a coastal haven stretching 70 miles across seven inviting villages and standing as one of the largest preserved land parcels on the Outer Banks. This memorable barrier-island landscape brings together oceanfront, maritime forests, and salt marshes, giving visitors a naturally varied and scenic setting. Protected and peaceful, it welcomes people to relax, swim, and explore beside the Atlantic.

Frisco is one of the island’s special places, offering year-round appeal, breathtaking views, scattered beachside parking, a fishing line recycling center for eco-conscious visitors, and a convenient bathhouse. Warmed by the nearby Gulf Stream, Frisco is both beautiful and popular for swimming, surfing, kiteboarding, SUPing and many more water sports.

Things To Do on Hatteras Island

Hatteras Island, NC, gives adventure-seekers plenty of ways to fill the day. Anglers can begin an exciting outing with Hatteras Fever Sportfishing. Captain Stowe Head Boats - Fishing Trips and Scenic Cruises also makes chartering easier, with fishing trips and scenic cruises that work well for the whole family. For a simpler memory, casting from the beach with your family can be just as special.

Visitors can also see the wild shoreline from horseback with Hatteras Island Horseback Riding, which offers family and group packages for a memorable ride. No visit would be complete without honoring the island’s past at Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, a beloved landmark and lasting symbol of the Outer Banks’ story.

Restaurants on Hatteras Island

With many restaurants nearby, Hatteras Island offers a wide range of meals and dining styles. From locally-sourced seafood to fresh baked goods, the island has options for even selective eaters.

Good Winds Restaurant is a local favorite with a fully made-from-scratch menu that includes locally-sourced seafood, tacos, burgers, pasta, and more. From its second-floor deck, guests can enjoy sunset views over the water, making it a fitting place for food or drinks.

For baked treats, Muffins and Scones serves over 15 varieties of fresh New York-style bagels, pastries, gourmet desserts, and coffee drinks. Hatteras Island welcomes visitors to discover its culinary treasures and find a satisfying dining experience for every palate.

If you need accommodations, explore Places To Stay and filter by lodging type and preferred location.