Trip Activities

Please take a quick survey at the link below and come back to this page for more surveys before/during the trip

Ocean Swim

Enjoy the Atlantic waves directly east of the rental or head south for lifeguarded shores. Safety is paramount; be mindful of steep shorebreaks.

Beaches: Avon Village Beach, Old Hatteras Lighthouse Beach (Buxton), Frisco Beach | View Beaches Guide

Closest Gear Rental: Ocean Atlantic Rentals (Avon)

Sound Swim

Perfect for relaxing and wading in warmer, calmer waters. The sound side is protected from ocean currents and offers gorgeous afternoon light.

Beaches: Haulover (Canadian Hole), Salvo Day Use Area | View Beaches Guide

Snorkeling

For the clearest visibility, target locations with gentler waves or completely protected waters to minimize sediment disturbance.

Beaches: Frisco Beach (Ocean), Haulover (Sound) | View Beaches Guide

Shell Hunting

Scour the newly uncovered sand for Scotch Bonnets and whelks. Getting out right as the tide finishes receding ensures first pick of overnight treasures.

Beaches: Frisco Beach, Avon Village Beach | View Beaches Guide

Stargazing

Hatteras Island is a premier dark sky location. Look for the Milky Way rising in the southeast and a rare Venus and Jupiter conjunction.

Locations: Avon Village Beach, Haulover, Ramp 38, Rodanthe, Frisco Native American Museum Trails | View Beaches Guide

Paddle Boarding & Windsports

Rent gear and launch directly into the shallow, user-friendly waters of the Pamlico Sound. Excellent for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike.

Locations: Haulover, Salvo Day Use Area | View Beaches Guide

Closest Gear Rentals: OceanAir Sports (Direct Sound Access), Ocean Atlantic Rentals

Sunrise & Sunset

Catch the first light of dawn over the Atlantic ocean, and finish the day watching the sun melt directly into the Pamlico Sound.

Sunrise: Avon Village Beach, Rodanthe Pier
Sunset: Haulover, Salvo Day Use Area | View Beaches Guide

Bird Watching

Observe Glossy Ibis, Pelicans, and Terns. Summer is an active nesting season along the local salt ponds and marshes.

Locations: Bodie Island Lighthouse Marshes, Pea Island, Cape Point

Lighthouses

While the interior is closed for restoration, National Park Service rangers host engaging outdoor talks daily about the iconic structure and maritime history.

Location: Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

Turtle Talks

June is peak sea turtle nesting season. Learn how the ancient mariners navigate and how local rangers protect the nests along the seashore.

Location: Hatteras Visitor Center

Hiking & Nature Trails

Explore shaded maritime forests, ADA accessible boardwalks over saltwater marshes, and open dune trails.

Pier Fishing

Cast off the local piers without needing to buy a personal state fishing license. Heavy rods, reels, and bait are all available right at the piers.

Location: View Piers on Hiking & Fishing Page

Closest Gear Shops: Frank & Fran's Bait & Tackle (near Avon Pier), Hatteras Jack (near Rodanthe Pier)

Beach Campfire

Gather on the ocean side beach at night. Fires must be kept below the high tide line using clean wood. We just need to grab a free digital permit first.

Location: Avon Village Beach (Ocean Side)
Supplies: Wood available at Food Lion
Requirement: Free NPS Permit

Live Music

Catch a post-beach drink alongside live acts on local outdoor decks.

  • Froggy Suede's (Avon): Acoustic acts and blues bands. (Daily/Evenings)
  • Koru Village Beach Klub (Avon): Tribute bands and regional jams. (Thursday Nights - Sunset Series)
  • Hatteras Sol Waterside Grill: Acoustic sets. (Evenings at Sunset)

Shopping & Art

Find one-of-a-kind souvenirs, browse locally made jewelry, or paint your own pottery in interactive studios.

Locations: Studio 12 (Art & Pottery), Hattiebuilt (Boutique & Apparel), Blue Pelican Gallery (Hatteras Village Art)

Coffee & Food

Stock up the house or grab a quick bite. From full-service groceries to fresh plant-based treats and local seafood.

Groceries: Food Lion (Avon)
Coffee/Bakeries: Muffins and Scones, Isla Coffee Shop, Swept Away Cafe
Dining: Ketch 55, Mad Crabber, Froggy Suede's