Who doesn’t love a well-planned day trip? A little break from the norm, where you just get your day pack ready and hit the open road for a little exploration. You don’t feel that overwhelming pressure that comes from planning an extended international vacation, and there’s no lengthy packing list. All you really need is likely a full tank of gas, and you’re ready to explore. Cape Hatteras and the Outer Banks have amazing day trips that won’t cost much to get to in time or energy. We’ve compiled the top day trips from Cape Hatteras according to locals. Ready for a day of adventure in Cape Hatteras? Explore like the locals do when you visit these top Cape Hatteras and Outer Banks day trips during your upcoming visit to the area!
Explore the Beautiful Bodie Island Lighthouse
Our first top day trip will have you getting up a little early, but it’s well worth it. Get your tickets for a sunrise climb at Bodie Island Lighthouse. This iconic lighthouse stands majestically in all its black and white striped splendor, keeping watch over the marshes and waters of Cape Hatteras as it has for many years. When you day trip to this destination early, you’ll be greeted with beautiful sunrise views, as a golden glow settles on the grounds of this park. The view from the top is breathtaking, complete with endless views of the Atlantic Ocean, Albemarle Sound, and Roanoke Island in the distance. Visiting Bodie Island Lighthouse is a calm and inspiring way to start any day trip. You’ll definitely work up an appetite, so go grab breakfast at Grits Grill in Nags Head.
Be One with Nature at Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge
Just a short drive south from Bodie Island is the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge, so this is great if you want to take two day trips in one day! If you love watching wildlife, then be sure to pack your binoculars for this day trip. Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge is home to over 365 species of birds throughout the year. Choose to walk along the various walking trails, like the North Pond Wildlife Trail or the Salt Flats Wildlife Trail. If you want to learn more about the area from experienced guides, consider going on a tour. There are bird walks and canoe tours, perfect for taking in the island from a new perspective.
Spend the Afternoon on Ocracoke Island
Locals would agree that you can’t come to Cape Hatteras without visiting Ocracoke. This fun day trip option is easily accessible by ferry from Hatteras Island. Once on Ocracoke, rent a bike or golf cart to explore. These are the best ways to explore the island since many shops and restaurants in the area have limited parking. Make a stop at Ocracoke Lighthouse which is one of the oldest in the country. We also recommend visiting Springer’s Point Nature Preserve, where you can hike through maritime forests that take you down to a beach. Speaking of beaches, certain beaches in Ocracoke allow for fires if you have your beach fire permit. After a day of exploring Ocracoke, stop for dinner at either SmacNally’s, the Flying Melon or Howard’s Pub. After a great meal, gather around the firepit on the beach to tell stories as the ocean waves sing and the Milky Way shimmers overhead. It’s an excellent way to conclude a day trip from Cape Hatteras!
Stay Local with Lighthouse View Oceanfront Lodging
With all this day trip exploration to do, you’ll need a comfortable place to replenish your energy and relax. A beachfront rental from Lighthouse View Oceanfront Lodging can do the trick. You’ll find the perfect rental to meet your needs, with a selection of cozy rooms, beachfront suites and homes. Enjoy direct beach access, comfortable accommodations, and a central location that keeps you to nearby these day trip destinations and so much more.
You’ll have what you need for a seamless and enjoyable, with amenities like kitchens, kitchenettes, comfy beds, and outdoor seating areas. Make the most of your vacation to Cape Hatteras with community amenities like pools, hot tubs and grill areas.
These Day Trips Are Calling
Every day trip is a new opportunity to see a part of Cape Hatteras that not many get to experience. Start planning your day trips from Cape Hatteras the right way, with the perfect accommodations from Lighthouse View Oceanfront Lodging.
Prepare for historic lighthouses, untouched natural habitats with unique wildlife, and quaint island communities when you start planning your day trip itinerary from Cape Hatteras.
These day trips won’t plan themselves! If you’re ready to explore Cape Hatteras like a local with some pure beachfront bliss thrown in, then reserve a stay with Lighthouse View Oceanfront Lodging today.
