05/08/2025
Memorial Day is just around the corner, which means summer days will be coming shortly after! What better way to kick-off the season of sunshine and warmth than with a beach vacation on Hatteras Island? With sunny skies and warm days already on the radar, you can stop dreaming and start packing! Whether you’re a repeat visitor to the Outer Banks or this will be your first time, we’ve collected a comprehensive list of what to pack, where to go, and what to do while you’re on your OBX Memorial Day weekend trip!
Don’t Forget These Beach Day Essentials:
With daytime temperatures already reaching the mid-seventies, it’s safe to say you’re going to need some warm-weather attire that is both lightweight and breathable. Whatever that looks like for you, just don’t forget your swimsuit! Some protection essentials you’ll want to ensure you don’t forget are a beach cover-up, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, bug spray, sunscreen, and of course, flip flops! For both the sake of sustainability and saving some cash, we highly recommend stashing a reusable water bottle in your bag for long days in the sun. Top it off with a couple of good beach reads and a beach towel, and you’ll be beach-ready! For nights out on the town, it wouldn’t hurt to pack a couple of nicer dinner outfits should you choose to try one of the island’s nicer eateries. Being on an island, everywhere is pretty casual, so need for cocktail dresses or anything of that nature. In the event of cooler nights or an unexpected front, be sure to also pack some layers including a cozy sweatshirt or light jacket.
Don’t panic should you forget something imperative to your stay. Local stores and boutiques are lovingly dotted throughout each of the island’s seven villages for anything you might want or need. For swimsuits and other beach necessities, try Rodanthe Surf Shop on the northern end of the island, Fisherman’s Daughter and Hatteras Island Boardsports in Avon, Natural Art Surf Shop in Buxton, or Kitty Hawk Kites in Hatteras Village (they also have locations in Rodanthe and Avon as well). If you’re in need of a good book, be sure to drop by Buxton Village Books, a charming local bookstore just off of Highway 12, or Lee Robinson’s General Store in Hatteras Village.
Must See’s and Things to Do:
- Seasonal Craft Shows & Markets
When the sun comes out, so do local artisans, ready to share their winter’s work. From handcrafted jewelry to fresh roasted coffee beans, you won’t be disappointed with your day’s haul. With weekly shows located in Frisco, Buxton, Avon, and the Tri-Villages, you’re also likely to find a holiday pop-up or two along the way as well.
- Private Yoga Classes on the Beach
Hatteras Yoga has been servicing the island’s yogi population since 2018, recently expanding into their very own studio in Hatteras Village as of January 2025. Boasting a safe space for all to practice, visitors can reserve their spot in any of their yoga or Pilates classes in the new studio on their website. We also recommend scheduling a private beach class, often scheduled around sunrise or sunset for optimal views, because who doesn’t want to do that?!
- Fly High on a Parasail Tour
Head over to Oden’s Dock in Hatteras Village to get a bird’s eye view of Hatteras Island with Hatteras Parasail. Explore the landscape and marine life from high above, while simultaneously getting the thrill of parasailing.
- Book a Charter with Hatteras Landing or Teach’s Lair Marina
Utilize the experienced captains down at sister marinas, Hatteras Landing and Teach’s Lair. From full day offshore charters to half day inshore charters, these two full-service marinas get you where you want to go and when. For those who want to do some inshore exploration with the little or older ones who may not be up for a fishing excursion, try a customized family-based water adventure with Captain Tammy Gray at Hatteras Landing Marina. Offering everything from fishing to clamming to shelling, she can tailor your tour of the Pamlico to your family’s needs!
Where to Go for Your OBX Memorial Day Weekend Trip:
- Home-Grown Galleries
With a variety of shops and boutiques all along Hatteras Island, your greatest treasures will perhaps be found at one of the many local galleries. From jewelry, to artwork, to souvenirs and gifts, each gallery has its own flare and uniquely crafted products.
- Local Eateries
While in town for Memorial Day, checking out the restaurants on Hatteras Island is a must. From fresh-off-the-boat seafood to laid-back beach bars and cozy coffee cafes, the island’s dining scene offers a true taste of the Outer Banks. Whether you’re craving a classic shrimp basket from Sonny’s Restaurant in Hatteras Village, a gourmet sushi roll from Diamond Shoals in Buxton, or want to crack some crablegs at the Mad Crabber in Avon, there’s something for every palate. Many of the spots are locally owned, adding a personal touch and Southern hospitality to every meal. Between beach adventures and sunset strolls, grabbing a bite at one of Hatteras’s charming eateries makes the holiday weekend all the more memorable.
- A Day Trip to Ocracoke
Doing a little island hop is a great vacationer’s tradition when visiting the Outer Banks. The free car ferry on the southern end of Hatteras Island (recommended if you plan on visiting Ocracoke’s beaches) is approximately an hour and fifteen minutes each direction and is operational year-round. The Ocracoke Express, also known as the “passenger ferry”, runs from Memorial Day to Labor Day, with a one-way ticket price of $7.50 per person (tickets are free for ages under 3). Dropping you at Silver Lake, you can utilize the local trolley, scoot around on foot (just be sure to wear good walking shoes and bring sunscreen), bike (you can rent or bring your own for an additional fee of $1 each way), or rent a golf cart. While in town, be sure to grab a drink dockside at Smacnally’s, visit the Ocracoke Lighthouse, and explore the many local shops and restaurants woven throughout the village.
Whether you’re soaking up the sun from the sandy beaches, perusing the island’s most exciting offerings, or simply marveling at the scenic drive down Highway 12, you’ll be thankful you chose Hatteras Island for your OBX Memorial Day weekend getaway!
