Hatteras Island
Hatteras Island is one of the barrier islands that constitute North Carolina's Outer Banks. These islands are subject to powerful currents and storms that, in general, cause erosion of east-facing shorelines and accretion of south-facing shorelines. Thus, the east-facing shoreline in front of the historic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is expected to continue to recede until storm-driven waves undermine the tower's foundation and topple the lighthouse, The lighthouse now stands close enough to the water's edge to be vulnerable to damage by a severe hurricane.

Permit Information
No permit needed.

Directions
Motorists can reach the park from the north via U.S. 17 and 158 or from the west via U.S. 64 and 264. Free ferries connect Ocracoke and Hatteras Islands on a regular schedule.

Information Center
Hatteras Island Visitor Center is on the island.

Activities