Planning a trip to Hatteras Island this summer? You’re in for one of the best beach vacations on the East Coast. Between the wild coastline, the laid-back vibe, and the sheer variety of things to do, Cape Hatteras keeps people coming back year after year.
But if you’ve done the beach, the lighthouse, and the seafood — and you’re looking for something that will make this vacation truly unforgettable — you’ve come to the right place.
Here are 10 of the best things to do on Hatteras Island in 2026, starting with the one nobody talks about enough.
1. Fly Over the Water on a Jetovator or Hoverboard
There is nothing else like this on the Outer Banks — and we mean that literally.
Outer Banks Jetovator is the only hydroflight operation on Hatteras Island. Using water pressure from a jet ski, you’re propelled up to 30 feet in the air above the sound, either on a Jetovator (think Iron Man) or a Hoverboard (think Back to the Future — but real). No experience required. We’ve flown first-timers as young as 7 and as old as 70, and almost everyone gets up on their first session.
Every session includes 30–45 minutes of fly time per person, instruction, and the option to add GoPro photo and video footage so you have something to actually show people when you get home.
Sessions start at $175 per person for groups of three or more, and we’re located in Avon at 40181 Bonito Rd.
👉 Call 252-305-3394 to book — we fill up fast in July.
2. Visit Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
At 198 feet tall, the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is the tallest brick lighthouse in the United States and one of the most recognizable landmarks on the entire East Coast. You can climb all 257 steps to the top for sweeping views of the island and the Atlantic. Worth every step.
The lighthouse is located in Buxton and is managed by the National Park Service. Climbing tickets are required and sell out early in the summer — book online in advance.
3. Surf the Cape
Cape Hatteras has some of the best surf on the East Coast, particularly around the Point in Frisco. The sandbars shift constantly, which creates a variety of breaks for all skill levels. If you’ve never surfed before, several local outfitters offer lessons. If you’re an experienced surfer, you already know about this place.
The good news for non-surfers: watching a good session from the beach is genuinely entertaining.
4. Fish the Surf or the Sound
Hatteras Island is one of the premier fishing destinations on the Eastern Seaboard. Red drum, bluefish, Spanish mackerel, and flounder are all common catches depending on the season. In July, the water is warm and the fishing is excellent.
You can fish the surf with nothing more than a license and a rod, or book a charter for offshore fishing. The Oregon Inlet Fishing Center, just north of the island, is one of the largest charter fishing operations on the coast.
5. Kayak or Paddleboard the Pamlico Sound
The sound side of Hatteras Island is calm, warm, and shallow — perfect for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Several rental operations along the island let you go out on your own or join a guided tour. Sunset paddles on the sound are particularly popular and genuinely beautiful.
If you want a more elevated water experience, see #1 on this list.
6. Explore the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum
Hatteras Island sits along one of the most treacherous stretches of coastline in North America — historically known as the Graveyard of the Atlantic. Over 2,000 ships have wrecked off these shores. The museum in Hatteras village does a remarkable job of telling that story through artifacts, shipwreck exhibits, and the history of the U.S. Life-Saving Service.
It’s free to enter, air-conditioned, and genuinely fascinating — a great option for a hot afternoon or a rainy day.
7. Kiteboard at Canadian Hole
Canadian Hole (officially Kite Point) is one of the most famous kiteboarding spots in the world. The consistent sound-side winds and shallow flat water make it ideal for kiters of all levels. Even if you don’t kite, watching the pros launch off the water and pull massive aerial tricks is worth a stop.
Several schools on the island offer lessons if you’ve always wanted to try. No waves required.
8. Take the Ferry to Ocracoke Island
The free car ferry from Hatteras village to Ocracoke runs multiple times a day and takes about 45 minutes. Ocracoke is one of the most charming villages on the North Carolina coast — almost entirely car-free in the village center, with excellent restaurants, independent shops, and some of the best beaches in the state.
It’s an easy day trip and one of those things you’ll regret not doing.
9. Watch the Sunrise Over the Atlantic
Hatteras Island faces east, which means the Atlantic sunrise is right out your front door. In July, the sun rises around 6:00 a.m. Set an alarm once. Just once. You won’t regret it.
10. Stargaze on the National Seashore
Cape Hatteras National Seashore has very little light pollution, especially south of Buxton. On a clear night in July, the Milky Way is visible with the naked eye. Bring a blanket, find a stretch of beach away from the village lights, and look up. It’s one of those rare experiences that genuinely stops you in your tracks.
Plan Your Hatteras Island Vacation
Whether you’re here for a week or a long weekend, Hatteras Island rewards the curious. There’s always more to explore than you expect.
And if you want to do something you’ve literally never done before — something you’ll be talking about for years — Outer Banks Jetovator is ready for you.
📞 Call or text 252-305-3394 📍 40181 Bonito Rd, Avon, NC 27915 🕐 By reservation only — book early, especially in July
Sessions available for individuals, couples, families, and groups. GoPro footage available with every session.
