05/11/2023
The year-round sun and warm temperatures of North Carolina and the Outer Banks region, plus the sand, sun, water, and fun of the area make them an ideal destination for your Memorial Day getaway. There are several islands to choose from, but Memorial Day on Outer Banks‘ Hatteras Island is full of fun, along with all that sand, sun, water, and fun you came to enjoy. There are plenty of things to do and see, along with some extra special Memorial Day activities to make your trip one to remember!
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
Make a stop at the iconic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse a part of your Memorial Day plans. The breathtaking black and white structure that protects one of the most hazardous sections on the entire Atlantic Coast is under renovation during 2023 but the grounds are open 24/7. Be sure you enjoy the most spectacular view – and bring your camera to capture it!
Bodie Island Lighthouse Tour
Do a little island-hopping while you’re here and head to Bodie Island for a unique climbing experience. The 219-step indoor spiral staircase of the lighthouse can be just as challenging – the equivalent of climbing a 10-story building, with a payoff of beautiful and picturesque views of Roanoke Sound. Purchase tickets online the day of your visit and arrive at least five minutes before your scheduled time. Guests must be at least 42” tall and no more than 260 pounds for a safe climb.
Avon Fishing Pier
If there are anglers in the group, make sure part of the time this Memorial Day is spent casting a line. The Avon Fishing Pier stretches 665 feet out into the Atlantic and is open 6 a.m. – 10 p.m. daily. Fishing off the end is bound to net you some interesting catches you won’t find closer to shore. Notice the crooked bends of the pier that are a testament to time and Mother Nature beating away at one of the only operating piers on the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, along with Rodanthe.
Beaches
An island escape this Memorial Day of course means plenty of time on the beach. The warm weather and waters of approaching summer mean you can spend a little extra time out in the sun or enjoy water activities. Lay out in the sun and sunbathe, get some exercise with a walk or run on the sand, or brave the waters for a swim, snorkeling, or SCUBA adventure.
Other Water Activities
In addition to the many beach activities that attracted you and your loved ones to Hatteras Island, there are other fun water sports to get you out on the water. Paddle your way through calmer waters on a stand-up paddleboard, kayak, or canoe, including toward the pristine marshes and wildlife sanctuaries around the island. If you’re looking for an adrenaline boost and have a need for speed, take off on a jet ski. For a unique and memorable water experience take surfing or windsurfing lessons from certified instructors.
Beach Horseback Riding
Whether you and your loved ones are seasoned equestrians or it’s your first time on a horse, make the beautiful backdrop of the beach and Atlantic Ocean waves surrounding Hatteras Island a ride to remember. Horses walk down the sandy beaches as well as in the water for an unforgettable beach experience. Call or email to make reservations with your selected company, and be prepared to provide the age, height, and weight of riders so they can pair you with the horse most appropriate for each person.
Hatteras Island Ocean Center
Learn more about the ocean this Memorial Day. The center is part of the Outer Banks National Scenic Byway, which stretches across Bodie, Hatteras, and Ocracoke Islands, Down East, and the Pamlico Sound. The center is within walking distance of central Hatteras Village, so you may be able to walk there from your accommodations. Take a kayak nature tour, go on “Turtle Patrol” where you’ll learn about the area’s sea turtles and view active nests, or learn about birding in the Outer Banks.
Hatteras Weather Bureau Station
The historic wood-frame structure was built in 1901 and active 1902-1946. It provided data on conditions in the Atlantic Ocean from a fixed location farther into the ocean environment than any other on the Atlantic Coast at the time. After active operation ended, it became living quarters for Weather Bureau personnel. It has also been used as a research station by many of North Carolina’s universities investigating “concerning” marine invertebrates.
Memorial Day on Outer Banks’ Hatteras Island
Start planning the perfect Memorial Day in Outer Banks and book a Memorial Day vacation rental with Midgett Realty. Choose from a cozy 1-bedroom all the way up to a sprawling 10-bedroom for a Memorial Day trip that includes the whole family. Prepare Memorial Day cookout ingredients or any meal in the fully equipped kitchen or enjoy a movie or TV show on an entertainment center. Retreat to a private bedroom for some rest and relaxation at the end of the day.
Call us today to begin a Hatteras Island Memorial Day adventure!
