Take some time away with the loved ones. Everyone can enjoy time to relax and have fun surrounded by plenty of sand, sun, water, and fun. North Carolina’s Outer Banks, and especially Cape Hatteras, have something for everyone on your next trip, including a variety of “on the water” Cape Hatteras activities you won’t want to miss.
Swimming
It’s difficult to be “on” the water without first getting in. You’ll also want to make sure your and everyone else’s swimming skills can handle the ocean waves before embarking on any other adventure. Stick close to shore for a leisurely swim, or swim out to deeper waters and ride the waves back to land. Keep in mind even the most expert swimmers can encounter trouble further out in the water.
Remember to always watch children and inexperienced swimmers around water and have life jackets available to them before they enter the water.
Snorkeling
Unlike SCUBA diving where you swim below the waves to explore the underwater world, you can stick closer to the surface and still explore the wonderland below. Get an up-close look at the many fish species and other marine life that call the waters of Cape Hatteras home. Ask about daytime or sunset tours, as well as gear rental for when you’ve built your confidence and want to strike out on your own adventures.
Jet Skis
For those looking to fulfill a ‘need for speed’ with adrenaline-pumping fun with loved ones, rent a jet ski and slice through the waters of the Atlantic Ocean at top speed. Choose from several companies that rent jet skis for a fast-paced good time on water.
You may need to obtain a North Carolina boating certificate before piloting a craft, whether that’s on your own or during a group tour, and some tour companies can help you with that before the adventure.
Paddle Sports
Slow down and experience some fun and unique water activities with a paddle in your hand. Paddle your way through the water on a stand-up paddleboard, kayak, or canoe. Select companies offer lessons as well as rentals outside the lesson so you can explore Cape Hatteras on your own.
You can also choose the unique activity of glow kayaking – a nighttime adventure aboard a clear kayak with special underwater-safe LED lights to light up the night. No matter the activity, make sure you have a life jacket.
Deep Sea Fishing
Charter a trip to the depths of the Atlantic off Cape Hatteras. There are several charter companies waiting to help you set sail in search of your next great fish story. Be prepared to hook Red Drum, Cobia, King Mackerel, Tuna, Marlin, and more.
Before your adventure, make sure to secure the proper North Carolina fishing license.
Boating
The activity can include several activities all in one! Rent a vessel and simply cruise the water or go on your own sightseeing tour of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Rather than taking it slow, up the speed and adrenaline for more fun. Hook up a line for activities like tubing, knee boarding, wakeboarding, water skiing, and more.
Find a secluded spot and drop anchor for a swim. When you’re participating in water sports, make sure to wear your life jacket. Pilots of boat rentals may need to secure a North Carolina boating permit/safety certificate before taking the helm.
Surfing
Get a unique experience on the shores of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Professional instructors teach you everything you need to know to catch your own waves, either on a regular surfboard or on a windsurfing adventure – or both!
Select companies offer rentals after the lesson, so you can continue to perfect your skills or take your adventure to your favorite spot.
Fishing
If any of the anglers in your group would rather stick close to shore, you can let them know there are plenty of places and ways to drop a line and try their luck. Enjoy some surf fishing from the shoreline, 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 your 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.
Embark on Water Fun in Cape Hatteras
While planning all the fun activities and adventures for a Cape Hatteras water activity 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 1-bedroom for a solo or sweetheart getaway full of water fun, all the way up to a 6-bedroom single-family home to include all of your loved ones in the water fun.
Contact us today!
