The Lower Outer Banks of North Carolina consists of the towns of Rodanthe, Waves, Salvo, Avon, Buxton, Frisco, Hatteras and Ocracoke. This 59.8 mile (96.2 km) stretch of the Outer Banks is the narrowest section that encompasses two different land masses and much of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. The Lower Outer Banks are best known for their pristine beaches and wonderful solitude. Much of the area is shut down off season which makes the summer month vacationers vital to the local economy.
Rodanthe, the northernmost village, was made famous by the Nicholas Sparks novel “Nights in Rodanthe” and the movie adaption with Richard Gere and Diane Lane. The stretch from Rodanthe (Chicamacomico) to Hatteras (Hatterask) was once home to the Algonquin Tribe who were able to live peacefully in relative obscurity due to the difficulty of any external excursions. This isolated nature of the Lower Outer Banks allows vacationers the same privacy and tranquility today. The southernmost village of Ocracoke is actually an island accessible only by water yet sports a number of different tourist attractions from historic cemeteries to the Ocracoke Lighthouse.
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Beaches
For the most part beaches along the Cape Hatteras National Seashore are accessible to the general public. Vacationers staying in local or rental homes generally are within walking distance of the beach. For others it’s worth planning ahead and finding the public access points along with the best available parking nearby. Like the Upper Outer Banks, you can drive your 4WD on the beach but will need a permit to do so.
Pea Island Beach
Rodanthe
Pea Island has a fascinating history of appearing and disappearing for long stretches due to the shifting nature of the barrier islands. In 2011 Hurricane Irene caused Pea Island to “re-open” for the first time since 1945 and the result are beaches that are as close to brand new as you are likely to ever find. It is very isolated so make sure you bring a day’s worth of provisions.
Salvo Beach
Salvo
As with many beaches on the Lower Outer Banks, it’s conceivable you’ll only see a few other people all day long on Salvo beach. It’s ideal for relaxing in the sun, shelling or a stroll but if you’re into water sports there are endless possibilities. You can choose from jet skiing, sailing, SUPs and kayaking, surfing or wave running. Because of the narrow width of this section you can easily explore both the oceanside and soundside in the same day. If you’re really adventurous walk some of the unmarked trails in the maritime forests and dunes but don’t forget the bug spray.
Canadian Hole
Buxton
Canadian Hole is one of the lesser known gems along the Lower Outer Banks, unless you’re a windsurfer. It is a perfect natural confluence of surf and wind that create perfect conditions making this one of the hot spots for windsurfers on the entire eastern seaboard. None of this means it isn’t also a great place for the family or a day on the beach. Canadian Hole is one of the few areas that has comfort facilities including ample parking (even large enough for campers and RVs), restrooms and showers. It gets its name from the sheer number of Canadians who have been coming back every year to enjoy the amazing windsurfing.
Frisco Beach
Frisco
Frisco Beach is one of the more interesting attractions on the Lower Outer Banks. The most unique feature used to be the half-destroyed Frisco Pier. After sustaining continuous battering from seasonal hurricanes for decades the town stopped trying to rebuild it. In fact, in early 2020, they completely dismantled what was left for safety reasons. An even more interesting feature of the beach is you can walk out comfortably around 100 feet (30.5 meters) into the ocean without needing to swim. There is ample parking since the beach is seldom crowded. A nice spot for shelling enthusiasts as well.
Lifeguarded Beach
Ocracoke
While Ocracoke is entirely on the soundside, there is a wonderful Lifeguarded Beach on the oceanside. You’ll want to drive as it’s a good 30 minute walk from the center of town. DrBeach.org has named this beach its #2 best beach in the entire country for good reason. It has a lifeguard on duty during peak hours and the summer months which is rare for Cape Hatteras beaches. Be aware that the surf can be very active in the late summers and probably not safe for youngsters. There is also a viewing platform, a wheelchair accessible beach access ramp and even a water-bottle filling station.
Lighthouses
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
Buxton
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is the tallest lighthouse in the country topping out at 210’ (64 m) in height, the equivalent of a 12-story building. Originally built in 1803, the lighthouse was rebuilt a few times with each new construction getting taller and taller. The current version used 1,250,000 bricks over an iron infrastructure and has withstood multiple hurricanes incurring minimal damage. In 1999, much like the Gay Head Lighthouse on Martha’s Vineyard, the lighthouse was moved to its current location due to soil erosion at its base. The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse still functions today and its nightly beacon can be seen up to 20 miles (32.2 km) away.
Ocracoke Island Lighthouse
Ocracoke
The Ocracoke Island Lighthouse has a few distinctions of note: it is the oldest as well as the shortest lighthouse in North Carolina. It is also the 2nd oldest operational lighthouse in the United States. Finally it is a most uniquely shaped lighthouse, basically an upside down ice cream cone. The tower is 65’ (19.8 m) tall with one side more sloped than the other though there has never been a reason given for this. While the lighthouse is open all year round it is only accessible by boat or ferry.
Ship Wrecks
The Oriental
Rodanthe
The Oriental was a ship that ran aground and sunk delivering supplies and soldiers to the Union army during the US Civil War. The steel ship was originally built in 1861 to deliver sugar to Cuba but was immediately rented by the Union for wartime duty. Just a year later she hit the shoals off of Bodie Island and, despite all efforts to save her, the Oriental could not be salvaged though luckily no lives were lost. What is left sits about 100 yards (91.4 m) offshore in only 15-20 feet (4-6 m). The wreck is also known as “The Boiler Wreck” as the ship’s steam engine remains above water and, from a distance, strongly resembles a boiler. A cool fun fact . . . the town of Oriental, NC, located across the Pamlico Sound southwest of Portsmouth, is named after the sunken vessel.
The Pocahontas
Salvo
The Pocahontas was a wooden paddle wheel steamer which, during a gale storm in January 1862, lost both its steering and boilers causing it to lose control and run ashore. No human lives were lost but 90 of the 114 horses aboard were lost. Today it rests about 75 yards (68.6 m) offshore in just 10-15 feet (3-4 m) of calm water making it one of more easily accessible wrecks along the Outer Banks. The wreck is easy to spot since a paddle wheel shaft is always sticking out of the water.
Piers
Rodanthe Pier
Rodanthe
Extending 700’ (213.4 m) into the Atlantic Ocean, the Rodanthe Pier continues to provide some of the Lower Outer Banks best fishing while standing tough against all manner of foul weather events. Whether you’re looking to catch mackerel, trout, small flounder or bluefish or just enjoy an amazing sunrise over the Atlantic, the pier can certainly accommodate. You can arrive fully loaded or rely on the pier house to provide anything you need from poles, bait and tackles to beach supplies, souvenirs, beer and snacks.
Avon Fishing Pier
Avon
The Outer Banks international reputation as a fisherman’s paradise began when, in 1962, the Avon Fishing Pier finished construction. The first pier built on the Lower Outer Banks, the Avon Pier cemented its legacy in 1984 when a 94 pound (42.6 kg) Red Drum was caught just a few yards off the pier. The pier extends out 600’ (182.9 m) which works well every 4th of July when the pier serves as the launching point for the Independence Day fireworks show. As a nice convenience there is also an 18-hole mini golf course right next door and the Pangea Tavern is just a two minute walk inland.
Nature & Wildlife Areas
Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge
Rodanthe
The Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge is a bird watchers paradise. Originally conceived in 1938 as a safe refuge for nesting, resting, and wintering habitat for migratory birds the Refuge has expanded over the years to include protection for endangered and threatened species. The 13-mile ( 20.9 km), 5,834 acre (2361 ha) refuge is home to 365 species of birds, 25 species of mammals, 24 species of reptiles, and 5 different kinds of amphibians. You could see ospreys, bald eagles, least terns, American oystercatchers and even loggerhead sea turtles.
Cape Point
Buxton
By reputation, the best fishing to be found on the Lower Outer Banks is at Cape Point. Due to a unique confluence of north and south facing beaches plus its proximity to both the Gulf Stream and the Labrador Current. This attracts subtropical and big game species plus a variety of saltwater fish. Located south of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, the best way to access Cape Point is with a 4WD vehicle (don’t forget to decrease your tire pressure to about 15-20psi before you get to the sand). Expect to reel in a wide variety including Spanish mackerel, croaker, tarpon, bluefish, mullet, cobia, and, in the spring and late fall, even drum. Be aware it can get very crowded during peak seasons.
Buxton Woods Coastal Reserve
Frisco
If you want to experience the Outer Banks in its most primitive form then the Buxton Woods are a great place to explore. The woods are undeveloped and unspoiled so please be mindful not to disrupt the natural habitat around you. There are (2) main entry points but also countless organic spots where you can begin exploring. Expect to find thick maritime forests, large ponds, marshes, thickets and even large sand dunes. Some of the hiking can be challenging but if you truly want to “get away from it all” the Buxton Woods is a great place to start.
North Pond Trail
Hatteras
For a far more relaxing and serene experience there is the North Pond Trail inside the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge. The 1-mile (1.6 km) level loop begins at the Visitor’s Center and is completely disabled accessible. The highlights include a bridge, a natural tree tunnel and an observation tower. There isn’t typically a lot in the way of wildlife but you’ll have a chance of viewing pelicans, geese, swans, herons, deer, muskrats, raccoons and even a nutria.
Springer's Point Preserve
Ocracoke
The 120 acres (48.6 ha) of Springer’s Point is the last undeveloped sections of land on the island of Ocracoke. It is best known for being a former stomping ground for local pirates including the infamous Edward Teach (aka Blackbeard). Today it is protected land that will never see further development. The entrance is about a ¼ mile (.4 km) south of Ocracoke Island Lighthouse but there is no parking available so you’ll have to find the nearest public parking around. There is a kiosk and map at the entrance guiding you through maritime forests, wet grasslands and salt marshes.
Museums
Chicamacomico Lifesaving Station
Rodanthe
The Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station was the first built in North Carolina. The tragedy of The Huron ship wreck prompted the government to take life-saving efforts more seriously and this station does a marvelous job of restoring the home of the state’s first trained, shore-based rescue responders. There are two station buildings along with a stable, water towers, cook houses and various rescue equipment. You can self-tour the facilities and learn of the daring exploits of these early maritime heroes and their place in Outer Banks lore.
Frisco Native American Museum
Frisco
Given the strong early presence of Native Americans on the Lower Outer Banks it is natural that a museum would exist to commemorate their culture and history. Opened in 1987, the museum houses thousands of artifacts from Native cultures from throughout the country and specifically on Hatteras Island. There are great displays of pottery, weaving, artwork, clothing, weapons, tools and baskets. There are even walking nature trails complete with two bridges, a small stream and a large pond that spills into the sound.
Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum
Hatteras
Equally a part of the history of the coast of North Carolina is the Graveyard of the Atlantic. There have been more than 2,000 documented shipwrecks off the Outer Banks and the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum does a wonderful job of detailing history’s events inside the almost 19,000 sq ft (.17 ha) facility. Appropriately, the building is elevated a full 12’ (3.7 m) above sea level and carefully constructed to withstand winds of up to 135 mph (217.3 kph) and gusts in excess of 250 mph (402.3 kph). If you have interest in anything nautical or want a taste of Outer Banks history, this is a must stop.
Teach's Hole Blackbeard Exhibit
Ocracoke
Contrary to legend, Edward Teach, aka Blackbeard the Pirate, was not a particularly violent or vicious leader. He did, however, encourage the reputation and used it to put fear into the hearts of his adversaries. The Blackbeard exhibit will only take you 10-20 minutes to walk through from start to finish but you may find yourself staying longer. The history of the Outer Banks is very much connected to the pirates of the 18th century and Blackbeard is the most famous of all. A great day would start here then proceed to Springer’s Point Preserve where you can walk in the same footsteps yourself.
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Historic Sites
British Cemetery
Ocracoke
The British Cemetery has only four gravestones but it represents so much more. The cemetery is technically on British Commonwealth land and serves as a monument to the (37) British seaman that gave their lives to protect American shores from German U-boats. The HMT Bedfordshire came to the states, along with numerous others from the British fleet, to help patrol “torpedo alley” whilst the US attempted to ramp up its own Naval fleet. All of the crew members of the Bedfordshire perished at sea from a torpedo hit but four bodies washed ashore. They were buried in the British Cemetery, which eventually was leased in perpetuity to the British government so the sailors could rest on home soil.
Fort Ocracoke Monument
Ocracoke
Much as with Fort Raleigh, the Fort Ocracoke Monument is all that is left of the fort that once stood on Beacon Island. The original octagonal structure was built, entirely by volunteers, in early 1861 soon after North Carolina seceded from the Union and housed up to 500 Confederate troops. However, the fort did not even survive the year and was destroyed in September of 1861. Remains of the original structure could still be seen above the water level as late as 1933 but succumbed to a hurricane that same year. If you get a chance to tour the Lower Outer Banks from the air you can still see the outlines from the original structure. The names of all the men from Ocracoke and Portsmouth islands who served in the Civil War are inscribed on the back of the monument.
Hotels
Avon Motel
Avon
You won’t find a better deal for short term lodging in Avon than the Avon Motel. It is conveniently located just a minutes’ walk from the beach and provides all that you would expect from a well-run budget accommodation. The rooms are consistently clean and have cable TV, free WiFi, a refrigerator and microwave and some rooms even feature a kitchenette. Coin operated laundry is onsite and there is even a fish cleaning station for the angling crowd. Note that they recently came under new management which have greatly improved the motel.
The Inn on Pamlico Sound
Buxton
The Inn on Pamlico Sound is consistently rated the #1 hotel on the Lower Outer Banks. It has its own soundside private beach and the hotel provides SUPs, kayaks and floats for guests free of charge. There is a beautiful garden, a full service restaurant Cafe Pamlico (including room service), free sumptuous breakfast, a lounge with evening entertainment, rooms with decks overlooking the water, free access to bicycles, outdoor pool, home theater with a library of over 2,000 DVDs to choose from.
Cape Pines Motel
Buxton
The next best rated overnight lodging option in Buxton is the Cape Pines Motel. This small, family-owned, establishment is located just minutes from the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, the Buxton Woods Reserve and the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. The rooms are consistently clean, many of which feature wood paneled floors and ceilings, kitchenettes, free WiFi, cable TV and an outdoor pool. This quaint gem is always noted for its friendly and accommodating staff and is just a block away from the highly rated Buxton Munch Company restaurant.
Hatteras Island Inn
Buxton
The Hatteras Island Inn is all about location, location, location. Located just as you enter Buxton, the inn is right off the NC 12 and minutes away from the beach, Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, Cape Point and the Buxton Woods Reserve. It has all of the expected amenities including free Wi-Fi, large LCD TV’s with popular channels, refrigerators, microwaves, on-site laundry and an outdoor pool. There is also an observation tower/deck that is perfect for views of the Pamlico Sound and the Atlantic ocean but also for sunrises and sunsets.
Ocracoke Harbor Inn
Ocracoke
Overlooking the Silver Lake Harbor, the Ocracoke Harbor Inn has (16) rooms, (7) suites and its own waterfront deck. All of the rooms face Silver Lake and have their own private decks that are great for viewing the activity along the inlet as well as sunsets. The rooms have free WiFi, microwave, refrigerator, flatscreen TV and kitchenette. A golf cart rental is a great way to get around town including the Ocracoke Lighthouse. Just across the street, down by the water, you can enjoy a free continental breakfast every morning.
Restaurants
Bros Sandwich Shack
Avon
Tripadvisor’s #1 ranked restaurant in Avon is as comfortable and relaxing as the name suggests. The Bros Sandwich Shop is owned and operated by two Texas brothers who fell in love with the Outer Banks and decided to make it home. Their specialty is homemade from the burgers and wings to the chili fries and all of their sauces. It’s their burgers that draw in the locals. The meat is always fresh and their penchant for creating unique flavors makes every bite an experience. We highly recommend the creole honey mustard and island vinaigrette dipping sauces with waffle fries.
Buxton Munch Company
Buxton
Located in the heart of the quaint village of Buxton is the Buxton Munch Company, recently named the #1 restaurant in Buxton. They are so confident in the deliciousness of their tacos they have named them “Best Fish Tacos” and “Best Shrimp Tacos” and local critics agree. They have an interesting mix of Jamaican and Mexican influences in their dishes that really make the meals unique. The menu has everything from salads and subs to burgers and fresh seafood. Their excellent reputation is well deserved.
Cafe Pamlico
Hatteras
The restaurant at the Inn on Pamlico Sound is one of the finer eating establishments on the entire Lower Outer Banks. It is fine dining while overlooking the beautiful Pamlico Sound. Known as much for their breakfasts (free if you stay at the Inn) as their dinners, the liege waffles are reason enough to visit. The breakfast menu also features (4) different quiche offerings, biscuits & gravy, chicken & waffles and Gravlax bagels. The dinners are the highlight as much for the service and sitting with spectacular views of the water as the beef tenderloin, duck confit, scallop carbonara and reliable southern staple, shrimp & grits.
Flying Melon Cafe
Ocracoke
If you’re into Creole or Southern comfort food, the Flying Melon Cafe is for you. Located on Ocracoke, featuring locally sourced seafood, the Flying Melon is on the pricey side but everything is fresh and well prepared. Linen tablecloths on candle lit tables lends a romantic atmosphere but the real treat is the food including seafood gumbo, New Zealand lamb rack, grilled vegetable Napoleon and chicken provençal. They don’t take reservations and the wait can be over an hour during the summer months but it is well worth it.
This is the last of (3) articles that explore the unforgettable Outer Banks. We’ve already covered the Upper Outer Banks (Carova, Corolla, Duck, Southern Shores) and the Middle Outer Banks (Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, Nags Head and Manteo) in more detail.
If you’ve never been to the Outer Banks then you’ll definitely want to add it to your bucket list. If you have we’d love to hear about your favorite town and activities (even if it’s just a day on the beach!)
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