06/16/2025
Planning a family getaway to Hatteras Island? You’re in luck! This local’s guide to all things to do on Hatteras Island kid-friendly is packed with adventures that blend fun, learning, and a whole lot of beach time. Whether your little ones are into nature, history, or just running wild in the sand, Hatteras offers something for every kind of explorer. Here are some of the top things to do on Hatteras Island for kids that’ll make your vacation one for the memory books.
1. Go Beachcombing and Shell Hunting
Hatteras beaches are a treasure trove for little adventurers. Bring a bucket and head out in the early morning or during low tide to hunt for seashells, sea glass, and maybe even a sand dollar. It’s a peaceful activity that turns into a fun keepsake collection as well.
2. Watch the Boats Unload
Head to the docks in the afternoon and watch local fishing boats bring in their daily catch. Kids will be amazed at the size of the fish—think tuna, mahi-mahi, and as “the blue marlin capital of the world”, you might even see a billfish or two. It’s exciting, free, and a great way to learn about the local culture and marine life.
3. Dive into Fun at the Hatteras Island Ocean Center
This small but mighty nature center in Hatteras Village offers interactive programs like turtle talks, crabbing lessons, and eco-walks. The hands-on experiences are perfect for curious kids and give them a closer look at the island’s unique ecosystem.
4. Putt-Putt and Ice Cream Treats
No family vacation is complete without a round of mini golf. Frisco Mini Golf and Go Karts is a fun stop, and afterward, cool off with some hand-dipped ice cream at Happy Belly Ice Cream in Hatteras Village. Both open a little later, it’s a classic evening outing that never fails.
5. Take a Ferry Ride to Ocracoke
Hop on the free ferry from Hatteras Village to Ocracoke Island for a fun day trip. The ride itself is a blast for kids—especially if you spot dolphins on the way. Once on Ocracoke, explore the village, check out their lighthouse, grab lunch, and hit the beach for more exploring.
6. Try Surf or Paddleboard Lessons
If your kids are old enough, sign them up for beginner surf lessons with Endless Summer Surf OBX or paddleboard lessons with a local outfitter. The calm waters of the Pamlico Sound are perfect for learning, and several surf shops cater specifically to families and kids.
7. Go Fishing as a Family
Whether it’s on the beach, from a pier, or a kid-friendly charter, fishing is a must-do. Watching a child reel in their first fish is one of those vacation moments you’ll never forget and it’s an easy activity to do at your own pace. For a full family outing, call Captain Tammy Gray at Family Water Adventures at Hatteras Landing Marina or Captain Jeffrey Delmonte at Island Saltwater Adventures out of Teach’s Lair.
8. Fly a Kite on the Beach
With wide-open spaces and steady ocean breezes, Hatteras is a kite-flying dream. Bring one from home or stop at one of Kitty Hawk Kites’ three locations along Hatteras Island to pick up something colorful and fun. It’s a simple way to spend time outdoors with the whole family.
9. Explore the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum
Located near the ferry docks, this free museum dives into the shipwrecks, pirates, and maritime history of the Outer Banks. The displays are kid-friendly and interactive, making it a great rainy day option or a fun stop before catching the ferry.
10. Become a Junior Ranger
Encourage your little ones to engage in responsible tourism by learning more about Cape Hatteras National Seashore and how they can help protect it by letting them join the Junior Ranger Program! Grab a booklet from any of the park visitor centers or museums and have them complete the pages assigned to their age group. Once they return their completed booklet, they’ll receive their Junior Ranger badge to make it official!
