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.
Photo showing scaffolded Cape Hatteras Lighthouse.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore Shares Progress on Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Restoration Project
Cape Hatteras National Seashore today announced significant progress in the ongoing restoration of the iconic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. Crews have advanced major construction and preservation milestones designed to protect one of the nation’s most recognizable historic landmarks.
A graphic showing the dates and times of two fireworks shows, one on Ocracoke Island and one on Hatteras Island.
National Park Service Reminds Visitors that Use and Possession of Fireworks are Illegal on Cape Hatteras National Seashore Beaches
Cape Hatteras National Seashore reminds visitors and adjacent homeowners that it is illegal to detonate fireworks, or have fireworks in your possession, on all Seashore beaches, including the beaches on Ocracoke Island and all the beaches in Rodanthe, Waves, Salvo, Avon, Buxton, Frisco and Hatteras Village.
Aerial view of the Billy Mitchell Airport and surrounding forest areas and nearby ocean.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore Announces Closure of Billy Mitchell Airport for Repaving
Beginning Sept. 8, Cape Hatteras National Seashore will close the Billy Mitchell Airport (HSE) to accommodate a runway pavement rehabilitation project. The project will provide full resurfacing of paved areas, new reflective paint, and new tie-downs and anchors, improving visitor safety and enhancing the overall visitor experience.
A wooden lifeguard stand with a sun shade stands in center of beach in front of ocean.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore Reopens Beach Between South End of Buxton and Ramp 43
Cape Hatteras National Seashore has reopened more than a mile of beach between the south end of Buxton and off-road vehicle ramp 43, following an interim response action by the Army Corps of Engineers, soil testing, and consultations with the U.S. Public Health Service and Dare County’s Department of Health and Human Services.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore Urges Visitors to Swim at Lifeguard Beaches and Sign Up for Swimming Safety Alerts
Cape Hatteras National Seashore is pleased to announce the locations of its five lifeguarded beaches and offer tips to help summer visitors stay safe in and out of the ocean.
The first-order Fresnel lens is visible in the lantern room of the Bodie Island Lighthouse.
Photo by NPS Photo
A young girl paddles across the water with the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse visible in the distance.
Photo by NPS Photo
Black and white painting of the brick Cape Hatteras Lighthouse.
Photo by NPS Photo
Two kids play in the sand.
Photo by NPS Photo