You are here

About Hatteras Island, North Carolina

Stretching 50 miles along the southern Outer Banks, Hatteras Island offers a quieter, more remote coastal experience. Home to villages like Avon, Buxton, and Hatteras, it’s perfect for travelers seeking natural beauty and fewer crowds. Enjoy fishing, lighthouse visits, ferry rides to Ocracoke, and miles of pristine beaches. Rentals range from oceanfront homes to soundside retreats with private pools and hot tubs.

Book Hatteras Island Vacation Rentals

Popular Activities on Hatteras Island

Stroll through the wide array of quaint shops and galleries that dot the coastline, or stop in one of the many unique, locally owned restaurants to sample the freshest and finest fare that Hatteras Island has to offer.

Recreationists will be hard-pressed to find a better location on the entire eastern seaboard to participate in a variety of popular watersports ranging from windsurfing and standup paddleboarding to surfing, kayaking and kiteboarding.

In fact, Hatteras Island is well-known for its status as one of the best places in the United States for kiteboarding - whether you choose the shallow waters of the Pamlico Sound or the ocean waves on the opposite side of the island.

If you’d rather witness wildlife in its natural habitat than peruse local shops or take on a new watersport, take a tour of Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge. Established in 1938, the refuge encompasses nearly 6,000 acres of land and more than 25,000 acres of Proclamation Boundary waters.

Here you will find upwards of 365 species of birds, 25 species of mammals, 24 species of reptiles and five species of amphibians. Stop by the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge visitor center to enjoy programs that focus on wildlife and environmental education, photography, interpretation and fishing.

Hatteras Island’s Historic Sites

For the history buff in your party, a trip to one of the local museums situated on Hatteras Island is an absolute must. The Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station Historic Site and Museum in Rodanthe - which dates back to the 1870s - features two stations and five outbuildings, where visitors can view artifacts and learn about the rich history of the men who dedicated their lives to saving the lives of others on the Outer Banks. The facility is open to the public from mid-April through November and offers tours, programs, reenactments and special events.

A bit further south, the Frisco Native American Museum and Natural History Center provides a place for visitors to discover a wealth of information about some of Hatteras Island’s earliest inhabitants. This non-profit educational foundation preserves an assortment of Native American artifacts, art and culture. A series of natural trails also wind throughout the property, providing visitors with a chance to view area wildlife and explore a fossil pile full of shark teeth and fossilized shells uncovered during deep-sea dredging activities.

Perhaps the most popular attraction on all of Hatteras Island is the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse which is located near Cape Point in Buxton. This iconic black-and-white striped structure was completed in December 1870 and stands 208-feet tall making it the tallest lighthouse in the United States.

After exploring the exciting activities and rich history of Hatteras Island, find the perfect vacation rental on Hatteras Island to complete your unforgettable Outer Banks experience!

Hatteras Island Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How far is Hatteras Island from Corolla?

Hatteras Island is approximately 90–100 miles south of Corolla, depending on your destination village. The drive typically takes 2.5 to 3 hours, passing through Nags Head and across the Bonner Bridge into Hatteras Island. Check out our map of estimated driving times from Hatteras Island to different places on the Outer Banks here.

How far is Hatteras Island from Nags Head?

Hatteras Island begins just south of Nags Head. Avon, one of the island’s central villages, is about 45 miles from Nags Head, or roughly 1 to 1.25 hours by car. Check out our map of estimated driving times from Hatteras Island to different places on the Outer Banks here.

How long is Hatteras Island?

Hatteras Island stretches approximately 50 miles long, making it the longest barrier island in the Outer Banks.

How did Hatteras Island form?

Hatteras Island formed over thousands of years through natural coastal processes, including shifting ocean currents, wind, tides, and sediment deposition. These forces created the barrier island system that protects mainland North Carolina from ocean storms.

What’s the difference between Hatteras Island and Hatteras Village?

Hatteras Island refers to the entire barrier island that makes up the southern portion of the Outer Banks. It stretches about 50 miles and includes several distinct villages, such as RodantheWavesSalvoAvonBuxtonFrisco, and Hatteras. Meanwhile, Hatteras Village is a specific town located at the southernmost tip of Hatteras Island. 

Where should I eat on Hatteras Island?

There are plenty of great options to eat on Hatteras Island, including fresh, local seafood, burgers, and upscale dining establishments to meet all of your needs. Cafe Pamlico is ideal for upscale dining, while Hatteras Sol Waterside GrillSonny's Waterfront Restaurant, and Breakwater Restaurant are perfect for waterfront dining. Family-friendly and casual spots include Buxton Munch Co., Tavern on 12, and Pamlico Deli. Harbor House Seafood, Rusty's Surf & Turf, Watermen's Bar & Grill, Pangea Tavern, and Diamond Shoals Restaurant & Sushi Bar are awesome for fresh, local seafood. And don't forget Bros-Avon for a delicious burger, while Oceanas Bistro is perfect for palettes of all kinds.