Cape Hatteras National Seashore

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The first-order Fresnel lens is visible in the lantern room of the Bodie Island Lighthouse.

About Cape Hatteras National Seashore

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!

Quick Facts

State North Carolina
Designation National Seashore
State Code NC
Weather The weather along the Outer Banks varies throughout the year and even throughout the day. Please check the National Weather Service information at http://www.weather.gov/mhx/ for forecast information.

Operating Hours

The grounds of Cape Hatteras National Seashore are always open for visitors, though there are resource closures that seasonally affect different parts of the beach.

Wednesday All Day
Monday All Day
Thursday All Day
Sunday All Day
Tuesday All Day
Friday All Day
Saturday All Day

Activities

Auto and ATV Auto Off-Roading Astronomy Stargazing Camping Car or Front Country Camping Group Camping RV Camping Fishing Saltwater Fishing Food Picnicking Hiking Hunting and Gathering Hunting Paddling Canoeing Kayaking Junior Ranger Program Snorkeling Surfing Swimming Saltwater Swimming Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Museum Exhibits Shopping Bookstore and Park Store

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