Cape Hatteras National Seashore • North Carolina

The first-order Fresnel lens is visible in the lantern room of the Bodie Island Lighthouse.

A young girl paddles across the water with the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse visible in the distance.

Black and white painting of the brick Cape Hatteras Lighthouse.

Two kids play in the sand.

The sound of ocean waves, the starry night sky, or the calm of the salt marshes, you can experience it all. Shaped by the forces of water, wind, and storms these islands are ever changing. The plants, wildlife, and people who live here adapt continually. Whether you are enjoying the beach, kayaking the sound, or climbing the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse there is something for everyone to explore!

Bodie Island Lighthouse still has its first-order Fresnel lens.
NPS Photo

Lots of recreation opportunities await visits on the sound side of the barrier islands.
NPS Photo

Black and white spirals decorate the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse.
NPS Photo

Two kids enjoy the sands of Cape Hatteras.
NPS Photo

Lifeguard stand at beach

Swimming at the Beach

The best places to recreate in the Atlantic is at one of the lifeguarded beaches

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse at night

Virtual Tours and Webcams

Join Rangers for virtual tours and enjoy 2 webcams of the national seashore

Two young girls playing in the sand.

Beach Activities

Spending time on the sandy beaches of Cape Hatteras National Seashore is a memorable experience, no matter your activity level.

Visitors enjoying the beach after using their vehicle to get out onto the beach.

Off-Road Vehicles

Off-road vehicle use is allowed in certain areas of Cape Hatteras National Seashore, for both sound and ocean access.

Tents and grill at campsites near the dunes.

Camping Near the Ocean

Four campgrounds are located across Cape Hatteras National Seashore, providing an immersive experience of the barrier islands.

Accessible Features at Cape Hatteras National Seashore

Fisherman on beach with ORV

Fishing Information at Cape Hatteras National Seashore

A loggerhead sea turtle makes her way back to the ocean after nesting

Sea Turtles on the Seashore

Sea turtles are summertime visitors to Cape Hatteras National Seashore beaches.

Engraving of Blackbeard the pirate

Learn about those who came before us at Cape Hatteras National Seashore.

Seal on the beach

Learn about the diverse wildlife at Cape Hatteras National Seashore.

American Oystercatcher on beach

Information on Birds of Cape Hatteras National Seashore

Last updated: August 21, 2024

Experience the Seashore

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

Cape Hatteras National Seashore
1401 National Park Drive
Manteo, NC 27954

Phone:

252 473-2111

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