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Cape Hatteras National SeashoreTheme(s): Maritime History | |
Description:
Stretched over 70 miles of barrier islands, Cape Hatteras National Seashore is a fascinating combination of natural and cultural resources, and provides a wide variety of recreational opportunities. Once dubbed the "Graveyard of the Atlantic" for its treacherous currents, shoals, and storms, Cape Hatteras has a wealth of history relating to shipwrecks, lighthouses, and the U.S. Lifesaving Service. These dynamic islands provide a variety of habitats and are a valuable wintering area for migrating waterfowl. The park's fishing and surfing are considered the best on the east coast. Click the "In Depth" button to the right for more detailed information.
****FALL HOURS FOR CLIMBING THE CAPE HATTERAS LIGHTHOUSE ARE FROM 10:00AM - 2:00PM DAILY. THE LIGHTHOUSE CLOSES FOR THE SEASON ON OCTOBER 9th, 2000.****
Accessibility:
All park Visitor Centers and associated restrooms are accessible. Individuals with special needs can call the park prior to their visit for specific information. Beach wheelchairs are available for check-out from the visitor centers at Bodie Island and Cape Hatteras.
Getting Around:
Personal vehicle, bicycle (a partial bike path exists along some stretches of Highway 12; use caution on busy two-lane highway).
There are a variety of short trails in the park, as well as long stretches of pristine beach. ORV access to the beach is permitted in several areas.
Activites:
Auto_Touring | Biking | Boating | Camping | Educational Programs | Fishing | Hiking | Hunting | Swimming | Wildlife Viewing | Bird Watching | Nature Walks | Stargazing | Kayaking | Snorkeling | And more.
Facilities:
Visitor_Centers | Restaurant or Snack Bar | Picnic Areas | Groceries or Supplies | Comfort Stations | Museum Exhibits | Fuel | Tours & Guided Activities | And more.
Nature: Endangered Animals | And more.
Directions to Cape Hatteras National Seashore
Plane:
The closest major airport is at Norfolk, VA
Car:
There are three major accesses to NC Highway 12, which is the only major route through the park. From the north, NC Highway 158 accesses the Outer Banks at Kitty Hawk, and then intersects NC Highway 12 at the park's northern entrance below Nags Head. U.S. Highway 64 comes in from the west at Roanoke Island, and also intersects NC Highway 12 at the park's northern entrance
Public Transportation
State-operated toll ferries access the park's southern entrance at Ocracoke Island from Cedar Island or Swan Quarter (call 1-800-BY-FERRY).
Bus service is at Elizabeth City, NC
Attractions:
The Lost Colony Outdoor Drama
The North Carolina Aquarium
The Elizabethan Gardens
Currituck Beach Lighthouse
Jockey's Ridge State Park
Nearby Parks:
Wright Brothers National Memorial (8 miles)
Fort Raleigh National Historic Site (5 miles)
Cape Lookout National Seashore
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North Carolina Road Maps (NC Maps)
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