Take some time away with the one you call dad this Father’s Day. Dad can enjoy the weekend with loved ones surrounded by plenty of sand, sun, water, and fun. North Carolina’s Outer Banks, and especially Cape Hatteras, have something for every dad and all his loved ones during a Father’s Day trip. Relax and unwind indoors or out or find something fun and exciting Cape Hatteras to do on-shore or off-shore for the perfect Father’s Day retreat.
Beaches
A Father’s Day island escape means plenty of beach time. The warm weather and waters of summer during the Father’s Day holiday mean you can spend a little extra time out in the sun on your beach days. Lay out and sunbathe, get some exercise, watch the kids play on the sand, or brave the water for a swim.
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
The iconic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse officially opens for the season the third Friday in April, meaning taking a tour is a must for your Father’s Day itinerary. The majestic black and white structure towers over and protects what is known as one of the most hazardous sections of the whole Atlantic Coast.
It is open Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Unfortunately, the popular stair climb of the 248-stair iron spiral staircase will not be available due to restoration efforts. If dad just can’t stay away, you can still stop by to see renovations so far, including newly stripped paint that has revealed brick dating back to 1873!
Fishing
If dad or any of his loved ones are anglers, you can let them know there are plenty of places and ways to drop a line and try their luck this Father’s Day. Charter a boat, stick to shore and do a little surf fishing, or head to some of the most popular fishing piers in the area.
Avon Fishing Pier is open 6 a.m. – 10 p.m. and stretches 665 feet out into the Atlantic. Fishing off the end undoubtedly scores some interesting catches you won’t find if you stay closer to shore. Another good spot to cast a line is the Rodanthe Pier, where dad’s next big fish story may include sea mullet, spot, bluefish, trout, and many others. The pier is open daily 6 a.m. – 12 a.m.
Hatteras Island Ocean Center
Dad and his loved ones can help improve the environment this Father’s Day. The center stretches across Bodie, Hatteras, and Ocracoke Islands, Down East, and the Pamlico Sound and is part of the Outer Banks National Scenic Byway. The center is a great place for nature lovers of all ages and is within walking distance of central Hatteras Village. Explore on a kayak nature tour, go on “Turtle Patrol” and learn about the area’s sea turtles and see active nests, or learn about birding in the barrier islands. Its programs will be in full swing for the summer season, but contact them to double check if dad’s favorite program will be available.
Hatteras Weather Bureau Station
Along with the historic lighthouse, dad may also want a tour of the historic wood-frame building, built in 1901. During its commission (1902-1946), it provided data on conditions in the Atlantic Ocean from a fixed location farther into the ocean environment than any other on the Atlantic Coast. Once it was decommissioned as a weather station, it became living quarters for Weather Bureau personnel, and has since been used as a research station by the universities and other higher education institutions in North Carolina.
Water Activities
In addition to the many beach activities that attracted you and dad to Cape Hatteras, there are water sports to experience while you’re here, too. Dad and his loved ones can make their way through calmer waters on a stand up paddleboard, kayak, or canoe through the pristine marshes and wildlife sanctuary of the area. Up the adrenaline and speed and take off on a jet ski. Take the fun below the waves on a snorkeling or SCUBA tour.
Add in some lessons for a new skill, too. Certified surf instructors will take you and dad from land classes to catching your first wave in no time. Choose traditional surfing, wind surfing, or both. Once you’re comfortable with your skills, rent some gear and start catching your own waves.
Father’s Day Your Way in Cape Hatteras
While planning all the fun activities and adventures for dad’s Cape Hatteras Father’s Day retreat, make booking comfortable accommodations for dad and his loved ones a priority when you book a vacation rental with Lighthouse View Oceanfront Lodging.
Prepare and serve delicious home-cooked meals, including dad’s favorites and Father’s Day cookout fixin’s in the fully equipped kitchen. Spread out in an open living space or spend some time outdoors on a private patio or balcony. We have accommodations as small as one-bedroom for dad’s solo getaway, all the way up to a six-bedroom single-family home so dad and all his loved ones can enjoy an island adventure.
Contact us today!
