Absolute Best Time to Visit Cape Hatteras
Welcome to Hatteras Island, a charming barrier island off the coast of North Carolina's Outer Banks (OBX) that divides the Atlantic Ocean and Pamlico Sound.
Curious about the best time to visit Cape Hatteras? It depends!
Whether you're in the mood for a serene getaway or an adventure-filled vacation, Cape Hatteras’ endless stretch of beaches and surrounding areas offer unique experiences every day of the year. The island reveals a new layer of charm each season, making it an ideal year-round destination.
At Edgecamp Sporting Club, we don’t just offer an exceptional hotel and waterfront villas — we immerse you in the heart and soul of local life in the OBX. Join us as we uncover what each season on Hatteras Island has in store for you!
Winter in Hatteras Island
Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum. Photo Credit: Cvandyke
While Hatteras Island buzzes with activity in the summer, it transforms into a tranquil retreat in the winter. But don’t worry — there’s still plenty to do in the off-season. The best part? The island feels like it’s all yours.
WEATHER
While these are technically the coldest months of the year, winters here are milder than the rest of the East Coast. Average temperatures usually hover between lows of 38° and highs of 56°F (3° and 13°C). In other words, it’s the perfect weather to cozy up with some hot chocolate and chase a breathtaking sunset across Pamlico Sound.
CROWDS
The winter is an ideal time to enjoy Hatteras Island’s tranquil beauty without the hustle and bustle of peak season. If you’re craving a last-minute getaway, you could find great deals on oceanfront vacation homes on the fly.
ACTIVITIES
Winter in the OBX is all about enjoying the stillness and beauty of nature. Take in the natural landscapes, try winter fishing, or tee off at one of the year-round golf courses.
A winter favorite in Cape Hatteras is the Winter Lights at Elizabethan Gardens in Manteo on Roanoke Island (yep, the same Roanoke from American Horror Story’s sixth season).
Since it’s technically the off-season, you have the chance to explore popular attractions, like the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum or Cape Hatteras Lighthouse (the tallest brick lighthouse in the world), without the usual summertime crowds.
Celebrating New Year's Eve on the island? The streets of downtown Manteo transform into a family-friendly waterfront party featuring live music, games, food and drink vendors, giveaways, and, of course, an epic fireworks show to ring in the new year.
Spring in Hatteras Island
Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Photo Credit: Wangkun Jia
As the chill of winter fades, spring ushers in a kaleidoscope of wildflowers across Hatteras Island. The island comes to life with vibrant colors in bloom and migratory birds making pit stops along Cape Hatteras.
WEATHER
While it may still be too nippy for a swim, the weather is gradually warming up. Average temperatures teeter between the 50s and mid-70s (10° and 21°C).
CROWDS
As tourism slowly rebounds, there are still fewer visitors compared to summertime. In response to the uptick, many restaurants and local businesses (like the Hatteras Island Visitors Center) that closed for the off-season have begun to reopen.
ACTIVITIES
With milder average temperatures, it’s comfortable to explore Cape Hatteras National Seashore on foot and the unique villages nestled along the coast.
Up for a day trip? You can take the (free) Ocracoke Ferry to Ocracoke Island and explore more lighthouses, museums, local shops, and, of course, beaches.
Better yet, hit Highway 12 and make your way to Kill Devil Hills. The cool, crisp air is perfect for a hike through Nags Head Woods Preserve. Other iconic stops include:
The sand dunes of Jockey's Ridge State Park
Chicamacomico Lifesaving Station Historic Site in Rodanthe
Kitty Hawk Kites for epic watersports
Fun fact: if you stay with us, you’ll take this same stretch of highway to get to your picturesque vacation rentals.
Summer in Hatteras Island
Kayaking in Cape Hatteras. Photo Credit: Sharkshock
It’s no surprise that summer is the most popular time to visit Hatteras Island. The sunny, warm weather brings beach lovers, anglers, and watersports enthusiasts from all over.
WEATHER
In the summer, temperatures generally average between the high-70s and 90s, sometimes hotter (21°-32°C).
Unfortunately, this perfect beach weather also lines up with North Carolina’s stormier season, which typically runs from June to November.
CROWDS
Summer at Cape Hatteras is the ultimate beach vacation hotspot. As the season of sun and sand kicks in, the island becomes a buzzing hub, drawing countless visitors all eager to soak up the island vibes.
ACTIVITIES
With summertime in full effect, it’s high time to take a dip into the beautiful beaches of the East Coast!
Watersports are one of the best things to do in Hatteras. You have your pick of:
Jetskis
Paddleboarding
Windsurfing
Kayaking
Canoeing
Kiteboarding
Parasailing
Snorkeling
Make a splash, work on your tan, and refuel at one of OBX’s delicious eateries.
Here are a few recommendations:
The sunsets and crab dip at Miller’s Waterfront
Orange Blossom Bakery’s iconic apple uglies
The crabby-pattie sandwich at Buxton Munch
Tortuga’s Lie for delectable Caribbean fare
For oysters, Awful Arthur’s is where it’s at
Duck Donuts for personalizable donuts
If you’re lucky enough to visit on Independence Day, you can watch the Hatteras Village Golf Cart Parade. The parade, which raises funds for the Hatteras Island Cancer Foundation, features over 50 to 60 golf carts, all decked out in fun, patriotic themes.
Fall in Hatteras Island
Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge. Photo Credit: Cvandyke
Summer's departure clears the skies, unveiling a stunning array of stars. This time is perfect for fishing, birdwatching, surfing, beach bonfires, and simply enjoying the outdoors.
WEATHER
Since North Carolina skews warmer than other places on the coast, average temperatures usually hover between the low 50s and mid to upper 70s (10°-21°C). September is also the tail end of the more humid, tropical weather conditions that start in the summer.
CROWDS
With school back in session, summertime crowds once again begin to dwindle. Many popular attractions are still open, making this a particularly pleasant time to visit.
ACTIVITIES
Bummed about missing out on surfing and kiteboarding? Don’t be. The OBX waters are still warm, offering some of the best wind and waves around this time.
With the temperature taking a slight dip, the weather is prime for hiking and biking. Here are a few of our favorite spots, depending on the vibe you’re looking for:
For great views of natural landscapes, hike the Buxton Woods Trail
For beautiful views along the salt marshes, hit the Hammock Hills Trail
Kitty Hawk to Corolla Bike Trail boasts the most elevation gain with 160 ft. ascent
This is also the best time to birdwatch, as Tundra Swans (and hundreds of other species) migrate to Hatteras Island. Visit Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge to catch a glimpse.
If you’re around in September, don't miss the Day at the Docks. This annual celebration honors the local fishing community with various activities, seafood tastings, and live music. The main events include a chowder contest between Hatteras’ best restaurants and a "Blessing of the Fleet" ceremony at sunset.
Experience Hatteras Island With EdgeCamp
So, what’s the best time to visit Cape Hatteras? It really boils down to the kind of vacation you're after. From the lively summer excitement to the peaceful, scenic beauty of the quieter months, Hatteras Island promises a memorable experience no matter what season you visit.
Ready to see which season in the OBX is your favorite? There’s only one way to find out.
Book your next Cape Hatteras getaway with Edgecamp Sporting Club.
