Take some time away this fall to enjoy an escape with loved ones surrounded by plenty of sand, sun, water, and loads of fall fun. North Carolina’s Outer Banks, and especially Cape Hatteras, have something for everyone during a well-deserved fall respite. Relax and unwind indoors or out or find something fun and exciting to do on-shore or off-shore no matter how busy you want to be during your Cape Hatteras vacation.
Avon Fishing Pier
Although the waters may be a bit chilly for humans to swim in – it steadily cools from the 80s to the mid-60s for the fall months – the fish don’t mind. For the anglers of the group, there are plenty of places and ways to drop a line and try their luck. Charter a boat, stick to shore, or head to the Avon Fishing Pier to see what’s biting. The pier is open 6 a.m. – 10 p.m. and wanders 665 feet out into the Atlantic. Fishing off the end will no doubt net some interesting catches that you won’t find if you stay closer to shore. When you arrive, be sure to admire the crooked bends in the pier, a testament to time and Mother Nature.
Beaches
An island escape this fall means plenty of beach time. The harsh sun has begun to back off a bit, making it easier to stay out and enjoy the day a little longer. Lay out in the sun and sunbathe, get your exercise with a walk or run on the sand, or plant your umbrella and have a picnic or sit and read with the waves lapping in the background.
Water Activities
In addition to the many beach activities that attracted you to Cape Hatteras for your fall adventure, there are other fun water sports to experience while you’re here, too. If you don’t mind the cooling waters, you and your loved ones can paddle your way through calmer waters on a stand up paddleboard, kayak, or canoe. Check out the pristine marshes and wildlife sanctuary of the area. Up the adrenaline and speed when you take off on a jet ski or take to the skies for parasailing. 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 on a traditional surfboard or windsurfing equipment in no time! Once you’re comfortable with your skills, rent some gear and plan your own adventure.
Beach Horseback Ride
Seasoned equestrians and first-time riders alike will enjoy this beach experience. The stunning backdrop of the beach and waves of the Atlantic Ocean off Cape Hatteras is a “trail” ride you won’t soon forget. Call or email to make reservations with your preferred company, and be prepared to provide ages, height, and weight of riders so they can pair you with the horse that will be most appropriate for each person’s needs.
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
The majestic black and white structure is what protects one of the most hazardous sections of the whole Atlantic Coast. The grounds surrounding the structure are open 24/7, all year long, and offer beautiful views, but you won’t be able to take part in the climb of the 248-stair iron spiral staircase, as it is closed for restoration.
Hatteras Island Ocean Center
The center is part of the Outer Banks National Scenic Highway which stretches across Bodie, Hatteras, and Ocracoke Islands, Down East, and the Pamlico Sound. It’s a great stop along the route for nature lovers of all ages and is within walking distance of central Hatteras Village! Explore on a kayak nature tour, join the “Turtle Patrol,” and learn about the area’s sea turtles and view active nests, or learn about birding in the barrier islands.
Hatteras Weather Bureau Station
Along with the area around the historic lighthouse, make sure to add a tour of this historic wood-frame building to your fall itinerary. Built in 1901, the station was in active use 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 at the time. Once decommissioned as a weather station, the building became living quarters for Weather Bureau personnel investigating the area and has since been used as a research station by universities investigating marine invertebrates.
Spa Day
Relax this fall on your Cape Hatteras retreat. Book a manicure, pedicure, massage, or body treatment, or even a new hairstyle can reinvigorate, relax, and refresh you from the area’s many salons and spas. Some even offer special men’s services that cater to their specific needs, so everyone in the group can go home rested and rejuvenated.
Celebrate Fall in Cape Hatteras
While planning all the fun activities and adventures for your fall Cape Hatteras retreat, make sure that booking comfortable and stylish accommodations are a priority. Book a vacation rental with Lighthouse View Oceanfront Lodging. 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 this fall.
Contact us today to start planning a getaway to remember!
