Take some time away with loved ones to rest and relax in anticipation of the hustle and bustle of a new school year. Surround yourselves with plenty of sand, sun, water, and loads of fun. Head to North Carolina’s Outer Banks, and zero in on Cape Hatteras. Everyone in the group will find something to enjoy during a well-deserved respite. Relax and unwind indoors or out, with a myriad of Cape Hatteras activities to choose from.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore
The over 70 miles of seashore is protected and preserved by the National Park Service. It stretches from Bodie Island to Ocracoke Island. Also known as the “Graveyard of the Atlantic,” it features treacherous currents, shoals, and storms that have caused shipwrecks. While it may sound dangerous to approach the water, the park’s fishing and surfing conditions are considered some of the best on the East Coast.
Fishing
For the anglers of the group, there are plenty of places and ways to drop a line and try their luck before the first bell of the school year. Charter a boat, stick to shore, or head to the Avon Fishing Pier and see what’s biting. The pier, which zigs and zags 665 feet into the Atlantic, is open 6 a.m. – 10 p.m. Fishing off the end will no doubt net some interesting catches that you won’t find if you stay closer to shore. Another great spot to try is the Rodanthe Pier, where you’ll 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.
Beaches
An island escape before school starts means plenty of beach time. The harsh sun is beginning to back off as fall approaches, allowing you to stay outside and enjoy the weather longer. Lay out in the sun and sunbathe, get your exercise with a walk or run on the sand, or plant an umbrella and pack a picnic to enjoy on the beach.
The waters have begun to cool as well, but you can still take a paddle around 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 wild blue yonder for parasailing. Perfect a new skill with lessons and go from land classes to riding waves on a surfboard or windsurfing equipment in no time.
Bike Rentals
While you can drive all over the island in your rental vehicle, there are some places that it just can’t go. For those nooks and crannies found around Cape Hatteras, rent a bike and cruise through some of the tighter passages. Make advanced reservations online to ensure you get the bike or bikes you want.
Most companies provide helmets with their rentals, but you’ll have to ask about other extras including lights, baskets, water bottles, and anything else you may need for a comfortable trip.
Beach Horseback Ride
Whether you’re a seasoned equestrian or first-time rider, it’s a “trail” ride you’ll want to put near the top of your back-to-school vacation itinerary. Call or email to make reservations with your preferred company, and be prepared to provide ages, height, and weight of riders: it helps to pair everyone with a horse appropriate for them.
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, or learn about birding in the barrier islands. Visit their website first to confirm hours and available activities. You may need special reservations, as the season is drawing to a close at that time.
Hatteras Weather Bureau Station
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 station on the Atlantic Coast at the time. After being decommissioned as a weather station, it became living quarters for Weather Bureau personnel studying the area. It has most recently been used as a research station by North Carolina universities.
Wrap Up Summer in Cape Hatteras
While planning all the fun activities and adventures for your back-to-school trip to Cape Hatteras, make booking comfortable and stylish accommodations a top priority. Book a vacation rental with Lighthouse View Oceanfront Lodging.
We have accommodations as small as one-bedroom for a small family break before school starts, all the way up to a six-bedroom home so you and all your loved ones anticipating the chaos of school can enjoy an island adventure.
Contact us today!
