Take some time away during the Memorial Day holiday this year. 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 everyone during a North Carolina Memorial Day trip. Relax and unwind indoors or out, or find something fun and exciting to do on-shore or off-shore during the unofficial start to the summer season.
Beaches
An island escape means time on the beach. Add in the ever-warming weather continues of the Memorial Day holiday and you have a recipe for fun. The warmer weather and water 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.
Beach Horseback Riding
Whether you and your loved ones are seasoned equestrians or it’s your first time on a horse, take a trail ride against the beautiful backdrop of the beach and Atlantic Ocean of Cape Hatteras. Call or email to make reservations with your company of choice, and be prepared to provide ages, height, and weight of riders. It helps pair you with the horse that will be most appropriate for you.
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 Memorial Day itinerary. The majestic black and white structure towers over and protects one of the most hazardous sections of the whole Atlantic Coast.
It is open Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Tickets are available in-person on a first-come/first-served basis, but you’ll want to be sure you can negotiate the 248-stair iron spiral staircase leading to the top for the best view.
Fishing
If there are anglers in your Memorial Day traveling group, you can let them know there are plenty of places and ways to drop a line and try their luck this Memorial Day. Charter a boat, stick to shore, 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 wanders 665 feet out into the Atlantic. Fishing off the end will undoubtedly hook some interesting catches you won’t find if you stay closer to shore. Another good spot is the Rodanthe Pier, where you can cast a line in search of sea mullet, spot, bluefish, trout, and many others. The pier is open daily 6 a.m. – 12 a.m.
Hatteras Island Ocean Center
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. It’s 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” where you’ll learn about the area’s sea turtles and see active nests, or learn about birding in the barrier islands. Many of its programs are getting their start for the summer season, but you’ll want to call to make sure your preferred program is up and running.
Hatteras Weather Bureau Station
Along with the historic lighthouse, add a tour of the historic wood-frame building, built in 1901. From 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 decommissioned as a weather station, it became living quarters for Weather Bureau personnel, and has since been used as a research station by universities in North Carolina.
Spa Day
Get pampered with a visit to a spa this Memorial Day. Choose from any of the local day spas and book the treatments that will relax your mind and body. A manicure, pedicure, massage or body treatment, are just some of the things that lead to total relaxation this Memorial Day. Some spas offer special men’s services that cater to their specific needs, so everyone can go home rested and rejuvenated.
Water Activities
In addition to the many beach activities that attracted you to Cape Hatteras, there are water sports to experience while you’re here, too. Paddle your 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.
Add in some lessons for a new skill while you’re at it. Certified surf instructors will take you 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.
Memorial Day, Cape Hatteras Style
While planning all the fun activities and adventures for your Memorial Day Cape Hatteras retreat, make booking comfortable accommodations a priority when you book a vacation rental with Lighthouse View Oceanfront Lodging.
Prepare and serve delicious home-cooked meals 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, all the way up to a six-bedroom single-family home so you and all your loved ones can enjoy an island adventure.
Contact us today!
