Cape Hatteras National Seashore

Lots of recreation opportunities await visits on the sound side of the barrier islands.
The sound of ocean waves, the starry night sky, or the calm of the salt marshes, you can experience it all. Shaped by the forces of water, wind, and storms these islands are ever changing. The plants, wildlife, and people who live here adapt continually. Whether you are enjoying the beach, kayaking the sound, or climbing the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse there is something for everyone to explore!
Map showing location of park.
An image of a damaged pier in the ocean. There is a missing section near the end of the pier.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore Reports Status Updates After Recent Coastal Storm
Cape Hatteras National Seashore experienced significant impacts from the recent coastal storm. Dare County has declared a State of Emergency for Hatteras Island. As a result, non-resident travel to Hatteras Island is currently prohibited.
Ocean water covers most of the beach.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore Announces Temporary Off-Road Vehicle Ramp Closures Due to Severe Weather Conditions
Beginning Sept. 24, Cape Hatteras National Seashore temporarily closed all off-road vehicle ramps as deteriorating coastal conditions continue to impact the area. The closures are in place due to hazardous driving conditions and risks that drivers will become stranded at high tides. Additionally, the beach from the northern boundary of Rodanthe to Atlantic Drive in Rodanthe, is closed to all access as multiple threatened oceanfront structures pose risks to public safety.
Strong Winds, Large Surf and Hazardous Travel Conditions Expected at Cape Hatteras National Seashore
Cape Hatteras National Seashore is monitoring potentially hazardous coastal conditions expected from Tuesday, Sept. 22, through Friday, Sept. 25, as a strengthening offshore low-pressure system is expected to impact the Outer Banks.
Aerial view of the Billy Mitchell Airport and surrounding forest areas and nearby ocean.
Billy Mitchell Airport to Close on Aug. 17 to Rehabilitate Runway
Beginning Aug. 17, Cape Hatteras National Seashore will close the Billy Mitchell Airport (HSE) to accommodate a runway pavement rehabilitation project. The closure will occur earlier than the previously announced Sept. 8 date, due to an accelerated construction schedule. The runway closure is expected to last until mid-November.
Image of a broken groin (or jetty) near the water.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore Announces Temporary Beach and Swimming Closure for Dare County Groin Repair Project
Beginning Aug. 3, Cape Hatteras National Seashore will temporarily close a small section of beach and swimming area in Buxton. This closure will ensure public safety during a Dare County project to repair the southernmost groin near the former Cape Hatteras Lighthouse site. The Seashore expects to maintain the closure for the duration of the repair work.
A beach landscape with the black and white spiraled lighthouse in the background
Photo by NPS Photo
A young girl paddles across the water with the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse visible in the distance.
Photo by NPS Photo
A large sandy colored turtle facing the camera on the beach
Photo by NPS Photo
Two kids play in the sand.
Photo by NPS Photo
a yellow glow of the risiing sun over the beach and ocean
Photo by NPS Photo