11/29/2023
No matter what time of year you need a break, the Outer Banks has an array of things for you to do and see. Set your sites on the beautiful beaches and Christmastime fun you’ll find on Hatteras Island and create a Christmas island getaway that’s unique to you and your loved ones. The area alone is a reason to visit, but there are plenty more highlights and must-do or must-see things that will make the decision to head to Hatteras Island a no-brainer this Christmas on the Outer Banks.
Weather
No matter what time of year you visit Hatteras Island and the surrounding area, you’ll experience sun and warmer temperatures. Winter highs are in the mid-50s and lows are in the low-40s. That may still seem cold to some, but when the alternative is negative temperatures and snow, it’s like a heatwave in the middle of winter.
Elizabethan Gardens WinterLights
Do some island-hopping this Christmas and head over to Roanoke Island and the town of Manteo. There, you’ll find the Elizabethan Gardens and their WinterLights display. Billed as the Outer Banks’ #1 holiday attraction, it’s not to be missed during your Christmas retreat. The gardens are made merry and bright by thousands of holiday light displays throughout the ten-acre property. “Timed entry” tickets can be purchased at the garden’s website. The display is available, if weather permits, from 6-9 p.m. on select dates from November 17th – December 30th.
Water Activities
In addition to the many beach activities on land that attracted you and your traveling companions to Hatteras Island, there are a myriad of fun water sports to add to your Hatteras Island Christmas itinerary. Paddle your way through calmer waters on a stand-up paddleboard, kayak, or canoe, including toward the pristine marshes and wildlife sanctuaries surrounding the island. If you‘re looking for an adrenaline boost or feel the need for speed on the water, take off on a jet ski. For a unique and memorable water experience, learn to “hang 10” and take surfing or windsurfing lessons with certified instructors.
Beaches
An island escape means time on the beach, no matter when you come. Spend plenty of time on the beaches of Hatteras Island this Christmas. The cool daytime temperatures mean you can spend some time outside enjoying the beach much longer than in the summer months. Lay out in the sun and sunbathe, get your exercise with a walk, or run on the sand, or dip your toes in the chilly water of the Atlantic, if only to say you “went in the water” during your Christmas vacation.
Avon Fishing Pier
Satisfy the anglers of the group and make sure they get some time this Christmas to cast a line. The Avon Fishing Pier stretches 665 feet out into the Atlantic, making every inch of it a unique fishing experience. The pier is open 6 a.m. – 10 p.m. daily. Fishing off the end is bound to net you some interesting catches you won’t find closer to shore. You’ll notice the crooked bends of the pier that indicate the pier standing up to time and Mother Nature beating away at one of the only 2 operating piers on the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, the other being Rodanthe Pier. Expect to hook cobia, sheepshead, mackerel, and others.
Other Fishing Opportunities
While the Avon Fishing Pier is convenient in many ways, including services and the length it extends out into the ocean, there are other great fishing spots to choose from as well. Charter a fishing tour for some deep-sea fun. Stay closer to shore on a kayak fishing excursion, or never leave land and set up for surf fishing. Deep-sea species include red drum, cobia, king mackerel, tuna, marlin, and more. Staying closer to shore means hooking trout, drum, and croaker.
Beach Horseback Ride
Whether you and your loved ones are seasoned equestrians back home, or your Christmastime trip to Hatteras Island is your first time on a horse, make the beautiful backdrop of the beach and crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean surrounding the island a “trail” ride to remember. You’ll wander down the sandy beaches on horseback, and some horses venture out into the water for an unforgettable beach experience on horseback! When making reservations, be prepared to provide the ages, height, and weight of riders. It will help pair you and all your traveling companions with the horse most appropriate for each rider.
Come Spend Christmas on the Outer Banks with Us!
These are just a few reasons you need to make Hatteras Island your Christmas vacation destination. There are plenty more, including a relaxing home away from home in a vacation rental provided by Midgett Realty. Book a cozy 1-bedroom unit all the way up to a sprawling 11-bedroom mansion near the beach. No matter which home you choose, enjoy expansive living spaces, a fully equipped kitchen – perfect for the holiday meal, and more.
Call us today to discuss reasons why you should start planning a fun-filled Christmas visit to Hatteras Island!
