OBX - Hatteras

Outer Banks Area Information

Hatteras

Big fish and big waves—that’s what people love about Hatteras. Located on the southernmost end of the island, it’s the last stop before Pamlico Sound. And because it’s the end of the road (unless you catch the ferry to Ocracoke Island), you’ll find it’s still has the feel of a small, beachside fishing village.

On the other hand, the surf is huge. Just offshore of Hatteras Island, the warm waters of the Gulf Stream meet the cold waters of the Labrador Current. It’s this collision that makes Hatteras one of the most renowned fishing and surfing spots on the East Coast. The ocean swells and the fierce storms bring in the perfect waves, while also bringing in massive schools of fish. If you feel like dropping a line, you’ll find plenty of offshore fishing charters, boat rentals and bait-and-tackle shops.

And for vacationers who just feel like enjoying a simple day at the beach, Hatteras is a beautiful, laid-back place to spend a day. There’s plenty of room to stretch out your beach towel and relax.

OBXtra #5—To The Lighthouse

At 208 feet tall, The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is America’s tallest brick lighthouse. It’s also one of the most recognizable, with its familiar black and white spiral bands. When erosion brought the ocean’s edge creeping closer, the entire lighthouse was moved 2,870 feet inland. It was rededicated and opened to the public in 2000.