Rodanthe, Salvo and Waves
These are the northernmost towns of Hatteras Island, known for being the most wild and rugged of the Outer Banks islands. A great portion of the land is protected as a United States National Seashore, and still more lies within the boundaries of Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge.
If you’d like a little quieter beach atmosphere, these small towns let you get away from it all. And if you’re a surfer or a windsurfer, you won’t find a better place to hit the waves. Canadian Hole, known as one of the best windsurfing spots in the entire world, is just a short drive away in nearby Avon. It’s also easy to get in a great day of fishing.
Families looking to rent a beach cottage will find numerous options, and there are also several private and government-run campgrounds in the area. It’s easy to stay here and then spend your days enjoying the beach—looking for shells, making sandcastles and swimming in the surf.
OBXtra #28—The Life Saver
Built in 1874, the restored Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station is located in Rodanthe. In late 2007, it was hit by a devastating lightning strike, but although the structure is currently closed due to its weakened condition, it’s still a beautiful and interesting testimony to true bravery.