Cape Hatteras Road Trip Itinerary
The Cape Hatteras Road Trip is an unforgettable journey along the coast of North Carolina. Starting in Elizabeth City, the trip takes you through the towns of Kitty Hawk, Avon, Cape Hatteras, and Cedar Island, covering a distance of 768 km (476 miles). The recommended time to complete the trip is 3 days, and the best time of the year to drive is during the summer months.
The journey is full of spectacular coastal views, and breathtaking beaches. This road trip is suitable for every driver, and can be managed with a moderate budget. The roads are in excellent condition, so you can relax and enjoy the drive.
The Cape Hatteras Road Trip offers an unforgettable experience and a chance to make lasting memories. Enjoy the natural beauty of the Outer Banks, and take some time to explore the area. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an exciting adventure, this road trip has something for everyone.
3
number of days
768 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Elizabeth City
Distance 322 km
Driving time 6.1 h
Pace: modest
83.8 kWh
Airports
PGV
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Elizabeth City is a great starting point for the Cape Hatteras Road Trip. Located in the northeastern corner of North Carolina and on the Pasquotank River, the city offers a great blend of history, culture, and modern amenities.
The city has a rich history and is home to the Museum of the Albemarle and the Elizabeth City State University. Visitors can explore the town's many historic sites, including the Coast Guard Base, the Elizabeth City Downtown Waterfront District, the Dismal Swamp Canal, and the Museum of the Albemarle.
For those looking for an outdoor adventure, Elizabeth City is the perfect place to explore. With its waterfront location, visitors can enjoy kayaking, fishing, and sailing. There are also numerous parks and trails to explore.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Norfolk International Airport (ORF), which is about an hour away. Car rentals are available at the airport for those planning to drive the Cape Hatteras Road Trip.
Elizabeth City is a great starting point for the Cape Hatteras Road Trip. With its rich history, outdoor activities, and convenient airport access, it is the perfect place to begin your journey.
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Elizabeth City
- Kitty Hawk
Distance 80 km
Driving time 0.9 h
Pace: fast
24.0 kWh
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Itinerary
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Start your road trip from Elizabeth City, United States and make your way to Kitty Hawk in less than an hour. This 50mi stretch is one of the stages of a larger tour, but you can also enjoy it as a stand-alone experience.
In Elizabeth City, you can visit the Museum of the Albemarle, which is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the region. You can also take a stroll along the waterfront of the Pasquotank River.
As you make your way towards Kitty Hawk, make sure to stop at the Wright Brothers National Memorial. Here, you can learn about the famous Wright Brothers and their first successful flight. You can also explore the surrounding area, including the Wright Brothers Monument, the Visitor Center, and the Monument to a Century of Flight.
Once in Kitty Hawk, you can visit the Kitty Hawk Woods Coastal Reserve, which is a great spot for nature lovers. You can explore the trails, observe the local wildlife, and even take a dip in the ocean.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, make sure to check the “Itinerary” of this stage. Have a great trip!
Kitty Hawk - United States - North America - Road Trip - pxhere.com
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2
Kitty Hawk
- Avon
Distance 85 km
Driving time 1.1 h
Pace: fast
25.6 kWh
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Are you ready to explore the scenic roads of the Outer Banks? Start your journey in Kitty Hawk, the birthplace of the Wright Brothers, and make your way to Avon, a charming town with plenty of activities and attractions to explore. The 53-mile drive will take you less than two hours, and you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Pamlico Sound.
As you make your way down the coast, take a break in Kill Devil Hills to explore the Wright Brothers National Memorial. This is the site of the first successful powered airplane flight, and you can learn more about the Wright Brothers and their historic achievement.
Continue your journey to the town of Avon, where you can explore the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Here, you can find plenty of outdoor activities, from swimming in the ocean to fishing, kayaking, and hiking.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Avon - United States - North America - Road Trip - Needpix.com
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Avon
- Cape Hatteras
Distance 29 km
Driving time 0.5 h
Pace: fast
8.7 kWh
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip? Start your journey in Avon, United States, and take the 18-mile drive to Cape Hatteras. Along the way, you will be mesmerized by the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Pamlico Sound. You will be able to observe the unique wildlife and the natural beauty of the Outer Banks. This is a journey that will take you less than an hour but will remain in your memory for a lifetime.
The first stop on your road trip is Avon. Here you can explore the local beaches and trails, go fishing, or take a boat tour. After that, you can continue your journey to Cape Hatteras. Here you will find a variety of attractions such as the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, and the Wright Brothers National Memorial.
Take your time to explore these places and enjoy the breathtaking views. Watch out for the scenic road and make sure to take some amazing pictures. Don't forget to check out the Itinerary of this stage for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Have a great road trip!
Cape Hatteras - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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4
Cape Hatteras
- Ocracoke
Distance 21 km
Driving time 0.3 h
Pace: fast
6.2 kWh
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Take a road trip from Cape Hatteras to Ocracoke and explore the beauty of the Outer Banks of North Carolina. This 13-mile journey takes less than an hour and is full of scenic views. You'll be crossing the Hatteras-Ocracoke ferry, so make sure you have your tickets ready! On the way, you can visit the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, the tallest brick lighthouse in the United States, and the Ocracoke Lighthouse, the oldest operating lighthouse in North Carolina. You can also explore the beaches, take a wild horse tour, and visit the British Cemetery, the final resting place of many sailors who died during the Revolutionary War. There's plenty to see and do in this short journey, so make sure you take your time and enjoy the wonders of the Outer Banks. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the itinerary of this stage.
Ocracoke - United States - North America - Road Trip - www.pexels.com
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5
Ocracoke
- Cedar Island
Distance 38 km
Driving time 2.4 h
Pace: slow
8.8 kWh
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Ready to take on an adventure? Then hop on a road trip from Ocracoke to Cedar Island! This 24-mile journey will take you less than 3 hours, but you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the picturesque coastal scenery. You'll also get to experience a ferry crossing, so don't forget to take lots of photos!
Start your journey in Ocracoke, a village on the Outer Banks of North Carolina, where you can explore the quaint shops and restaurants along the harbor. Then, make your way to the Cedar Island Ferry Terminal, where you can board the ferry for a short ride across the Core Sound. Once you arrive in Cedar Island, you can take a stroll along the beach and admire the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary for this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready to embark on this amazing journey!
Cedar Island - United States - North America - Road Trip - National Park Service
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Cedar Island
- Morehead City
Distance 69 km
Driving time 0.9 h
Pace: fast
20.7 kWh
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Welcome to the Cedar Island - Morehead City road trip stage! This 43mi stretch of road will take you less than an hour to complete, and it's the perfect opportunity to soak in the stunning coastal scenery of North Carolina.
Your journey will start in Cedar Island, a small town known for its tranquil atmosphere and its proximity to the Cedar Island National Wildlife Refuge. This refuge is home to a variety of wildlife, including migratory birds, deer, and wild horses.
Continuing your journey, you'll pass through the small community of Sea Level, which is known for its local seafood restaurants and its beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean.
As you get closer to Morehead City, you'll be able to enjoy the scenery of the Bogue Sound, an estuary that's home to a variety of fish and wildlife. You'll also get a glimpse of the historic Fort Macon State Park, which is located on the southern tip of the city.
When you finally arrive in Morehead City, you'll find plenty of things to do. From the beaches to the historic downtown area, there's something for everyone. You can also explore the nearby Cape Lookout National Seashore or take a ferry to Shackleford Banks to see wild horses.
No matter what you decide to do, you're sure to have a great time on this road trip. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Morehead City - United States - North America - Road Trip - National Park Service
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Morehead City
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Morehead City is the perfect ending point for your road trip adventure named "Cape Hatteras Road Trip". This charming city is located in the Outer Banks of North Carolina and is a great spot to relax and enjoy the local culture and stunning scenery.
When you arrive in Morehead City, you'll find plenty to do. One of the most popular activities is taking a boat tour of the local harbor and nearby islands. You can also explore some of the area's incredible beaches, including Bogue Banks and Fort Macon State Park. Or, if you're in the mood for hiking, there are plenty of trails to explore, including the Neuse River Trail and Cedar Island Trail.
If you're looking for some local flavor, Morehead City has plenty to offer. Check out the local seafood restaurants, dive bars, and craft breweries. Or, if you're in the mood for some shopping, head downtown to browse the local boutiques and galleries.
No matter what brings you to Morehead City, the city is the perfect place to end your "Cape Hatteras Road Trip". The closest international airport to Morehead City is Albert J. Ellis Airport (OAJ), located just 40 miles away.
Cape Hatteras Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Elizabeth City
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End:
Morehead City
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Distance:
768 km
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Stay:
3 days
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Getting there:
Pitt Greenville Airport (PGV)
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When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
The Cape Hatteras Road Trip is a captivating coastal journey in North Carolina, spanning approximately 768 km (476 miles) from the historic Elizabeth City to the tranquil Cedar Island. Traversing through the scenic Outer Banks, this route takes you through Kitty Hawk, Avon, and Cape Hatteras, offering mesmerizing ocean views, pristine beaches, and a blend of history and nature perfect for a 3-day exploration.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Elizabeth City: Immerse yourself in the town's rich maritime history and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere of its waterfront area.
- Kitty Hawk: Delve into aviation history at the Wright Brothers National Memorial, where the Wright Brothers achieved the first successful powered flight in 1903.
- Avon: Indulge in water sports or unwind on the untouched sandy beaches, which are part of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore.
- Cape Hatteras: Visit the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, the tallest brick lighthouse in North America, and enjoy birdwatching or beachcombing in the surrounding national seashore.
- Cedar Island: End your journey with peaceful views and consider taking a ferry to explore nearby islands such as Ocracoke, known for its quaint village and historic lighthouse.
Best Time to Go:
The optimal time for this Road Trip is between late spring and early fall, especially from late May to early September, when the weather is warm, and the full array of tourist facilities and local attractions are operational.
Potential Risks:
The region experiences a hurricane season from June to November, with the peak period between August and October. It's crucial to monitor weather updates and have contingency plans for severe weather conditions.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- The Outer Banks is not only a natural paradise but also a historical treasure trove, featuring sites from the Lost Colony of Roanoke to the legacy of Blackbeard the pirate.
- This region is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge located on Hatteras Island offering a habitat for migratory birds and sea turtles.
- The waters off Cape Hatteras are known as the `Graveyard of the Atlantic` due to the numerous shipwrecks caused by its treacherous currents and shifting sandbars, making it a fascinating area for diving and maritime history.
A good choice for:
The Cape Hatteras Road Trip is a must-do for those who appreciate the allure of coastal landscapes, rich history, and diverse recreational opportunities. Proper planning regarding timing and weather conditions will ensure a memorable and multifaceted experience along North Carolina's enchanting coast.
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