As summer rolls in, Cape Hatteras transforms into a bustling hub of activity, blending the perfect mix of relaxation and excitement. Set your sights on this locale this summer for your family vacation, friends’ trip, romantic getaway, or solo adventure. This ultimate summer North Carolina travel guide will help you plan your visit. It highlights the best activities, attractions, events, and encourages you to stay in a summer rental with the best – Lighthouse View Oceanfront Lodging!
Embrace the Coastal Lifestyle
The beaches of Cape Hatteras are some of the scenic along the East Coast. Indulge in a variety of beach activities on miles of sandy shores, clear waters, and rolling dunes. Start your day with a sunrise stroll along the shore, watching as the sun casts a golden glow over the Atlantic Ocean. Early morning walks at Coquina Beach give you a peaceful start to your day, with the sound of gentle waves as your soundtrack.
Swimming and sunbathing are favorite pastimes on Cape Hatteras beaches. The inviting waters and soft sands make it easy to spend a whole day basking in the sun or taking refreshing dips in the ocean. Families can enjoy building elaborate sandcastles at popular spots like Frisco Beach. Here, the waters are warm, and the surf is gentle.
If you want to indulge in some watersports, Cape Hatteras offers excellent opportunities for surfing, kiteboarding, and windsurfing. The consistent waves and steady winds make it a hotspot. The unique shape of the Outer Banks creates perfect conditions for thrilling surf sessions. Kiteboarders and windsurfers flock to Canadian Hole, located between Avon and Buxton, where the shallow sound-side waters and reliable winds create an ideal playground for both beginners and seasoned pros.
Fishing is another popular activity in Cape Hatteras. Cast a line from the shore, a pier, or from a deep-sea fishing charter. You’ll quickly find that the waters around Cape Hatteras are teeming with a variety of fish. Visit the Avon Fishing Pier, a local favorite, where you can catch anything from Spanish mackerel to bluefish. For an offshore adventure, book a charter with companies like Hatteras Harbor Marina, offering trips that target marlin, tuna, and mahi-mahi. You’ll have a day filled with the thrill of the catch!
For a more relaxed experience, try crabbing or clamming in the shallow waters of the Pamlico Sound. The sound’s calm, shallow waters are perfect for these family-friendly activities. Many visitors enjoy the peaceful practice of wading through the water and collecting fresh clams or setting crab pots and waiting for a catch. Rodanthe’s sound-side beaches are particularly popular for these activities, offering a tranquil escape from the ocean’s waves. With such a diverse range of beach activities, Cape Hatteras ensures that every visitor can embrace beach life in their own way.
Explore the Cape Hatteras National Seashore
Cape Hatteras National Seashore is a treasure trove of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. This protected area stretches over 70 miles, encompassing beaches, dunes, marshes, and maritime forests. Spend a day exploring the various ecosystems, hiking the nature trails, and spotting local wildlife. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the diversity of species that call this area home, including pelicans, ospreys, and herons.
A visit to the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is a must. This iconic black-and-white-striped lighthouse is the tallest brick lighthouse in the United States and offers great views from the top. Climb the 257 steps to the top and you’ll be rewarded with a panoramic view of the seashore and the Atlantic Ocean. The nearby museum offers great insights into the history of the lighthouse and the maritime heritage of the Outer Banks.
Dive into History
Cape Hatteras is steeped in history, with numerous sites and attractions that tell the story of this unique region. The Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum in Hatteras Village is a fascinating destination, showcasing the maritime history and shipwrecks that have occurred off the coast. Exhibits include artifacts from shipwrecks, displays on pirate legends, and stories of heroic rescues by the U.S. Life-Saving Service.
Another historical highlight is the Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station Historic Site in Rodanthe. This site offers a glimpse into the lives of the brave mariners who performed daring rescues at sea. The restored buildings and exhibits give you a glimpse into the past and the challenging conditions these lifesavers faced.
Get Active on the Water
For water sports enthusiasts, Cape Hatteras is a paradise. The Pamlico Sound, with its shallow, protected waters, is ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the calm waters. Discover hidden coves, tidal creeks, and barrier islands. The sound is also a popular spot for windsurfing and kiteboarding, with consistent winds providing perfect conditions for these sports.
If you’re looking for a more relaxed water activity, consider taking a scenic boat tour. These tours allow you to see the stunning coastline, wildlife, and historic sites from a relaxing cruise along the water. Naturally, sunset cruises are popular since they give you a chance to delight in the beauty of a sunset.
Savor Local Flavors
No visit to Cape Hatteras is complete without some good food! The area is known for its fresh seafood, and there are plenty of restaurants serving up delicious dishes featuring the catch of the day. Enjoy a waterfront meal Sandbar & Grille. Sample their fried seafood platter or blackened scallops. There’s also Dinky’s Waterfront Restaurant, known for their crab cakes, shrimp gumbo, and oysters Rockefeller served up with an equally delicious view of the water.
These hidden gems offer some of the best seafood around, often prepared with a unique local twist. Be sure to try a traditional Hatteras-style clam chowder, made with broth, redskin potatoes, bacon and local Hatteras clams!
Experience the Local Culture
Cape Hatteras has a vibrant local culture, with a variety of festivals, events, and activities that showcase the unique character of the area. During the Cape Hatteras summer, the island comes alive with events like the Wright Kite Festival, which features colorful kites flying high in the sky at the Wright Brothers National Memorial.
Explore the local galleries and studios, which showcase the work of talented artists who have been inspired by the beauty of the Outer Banks. You’ll find everything from paintings and sculptures to handmade jewelry and pottery. Many artists open their studios to the public, letting you into their creative process firsthand. You can also purchase one-of-a-kind pieces so you’ll always remember your summer in Cape Hatteras.
Relax and Unwind
While there’s plenty to see and do in Cape Hatteras, sometimes the best way to enjoy your vacation is to simply relax and unwind. Spend a lazy afternoon lounging on the beach with a good book or take a leisurely bike ride along the scenic paths that wind through the island. Lighthouse View Oceanfront Lodging offers a selection of summer rentals with beach access and private outdoor spaces. Soak up the sun, enjoy a meal outside, and watch the sunset.
The island’s laid-back vibe and slower pace of life make it easy to leave the stresses of everyday life behind. Take advantage of this opportunity to disconnect from your devices, reconnect with nature, and savor the simple pleasures of a summer vacation by the sea!
Our Summer Rentals
At Lighthouse View Oceanfront Lodging, we offer a wide range of summer rentals to suit every taste and budget. Experience all the comforts of home while being immersed in the beauty of Cape Hatteras. Choose from beach houses, coastal cottages, and smaller rooms and suites.
Our summer rentals come equipped with a variety of amenities to enhance your stay. Many properties offer air conditioning, ensuring a cool and comfortable environment during the warm summer months. Washer and dryer facilities are also available. You can pack light and then do laundry as needed. You’ll always have a fresh swimsuit, towel and outfit ready for any adventure!
The living room of your summer rental typically includes a TV with Roku or other streaming services. It’s the perfect common area for family movie nights or catching up on your favorite shows. Connect with ease to the high-speed WiFi so you can access the internet from your personal device, stream shows, or share your vacation memories with friends and family.
When you’re not out eating at the delicious restaurants of Cape Hatteras, you can prepare your own meals from the comfort of your summer rental! Your summer rental has a full kitchen, equipped with appliances, cookware, and utensils. Cook those easy recipes you know and love and enjoy family dinners while on vacation.
When it comes time to get a little shut-eye, the bedrooms of your summer rental will keep you cool and comfortable. You’ll drift into dreams quickly from the comfort of your queen-sized bed outfitted with soft sheets. Rise each morning to views of the ocean just outside your window. What could be better than that?
Many properties also provide thoughtful extras such linens, towels, hairdryers, and an iron/ironing board. Additional pillows and blankets can be made available to ensure everyone is comfortable.
Pet-Friendly Options
Cape Hatteras is a pet-friendly destination. If you’re traveling with your furry friend in tow, be sure to choose a pet-friendly summer rental! Bringing your pet along can enhance your time in Cape Hatteras as you explore the pet-friendly beaches and parks together. Just be sure to check the specific pet policies of your rental property to ensure a smooth stay.
Resort-Style Amenities
Add an extra layer of luxury to your stay with the following resort-style amenities! Sit by the communal pool and hot tub! This area gives you the perfect place to unwind and cool off after a day exploring Cape Hatteras. Park-style grills are perfect for hosting a family barbecue, and picnic areas offer scenic spots with views of the ocean as you enjoy your meal.
Why Choose Lighthouse View Oceanfront Lodging?
At Lighthouse View, we pride ourselves on providing the best Cape Hatteras summer rentals. Our team is dedicated to making your stay as enjoyable and stress-free as possible. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a group retreat, we have the perfect rental to make your summer visit to Cape Hatteras unforgettable.
With direct booking from our website, we can answer any questions or concerns that arise – from the day you arrive to the time you leave. You can read the detailed information about each property before you select it. Learn all about the amenities and nearby attractions, so you can make an informed decision and plan your perfect vacation in Cape Hatteras.
We also offer flexible booking options and competitive rates, ensuring that you get the best value for your money. We’re committed to customer satisfaction. That’s why we offer a variety of properties that adhere to high standards of comfort, cleanliness and convenience. Come experience the difference with Lighthouse View Oceanfront Lodging! We want to add you to our list of happy customers who choose us for their Cape Hatteras accommodations year after year!
Come Spend Summer the Right Way in Cape Hatteras!
Summer in Cape Hatteras is magical! Come see how the island comes to life with summer activities, events and adventures. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Outer Banks for a summer you’ll always remember.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, this ultimate summer North Carolina travel guide will help you make the most of your visit. Stay in a summer rental with Lighthouse View Oceanfront Lodging and soak up every ounce of summer living possible.
Your rental will feel like a Cape Hatteras home away from home, offering you the right blend of comfort, convenience and coastal style. Check out our selection of properties today. With a wide range of properties and amenities to choose from, you’ll find the ideal home base for your Cape Hatteras adventure.
We can’t wait to host you this summer. Book your stay with Lighthouse View today and discover why so many visitors fall in love with this charming island. Your ultimate summer vacation awaits, with Lighthouse View Oceanfront Lodging! Reach out to us today and let’s start planning your summer in Cape Hatteras!
