10 Tips for the Perfect Summer Retreat in Buxton, NC

07/03/2025

When it comes to planning the ultimate summer trip to Buxton, North Carolina—tucked along the southern stretch of Hatteras Island— this destination offers a charming blend of natural beauty, coastal adventure, rich history, and small-town hospitality. From the iconic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse to the rolling waves and maritime forests, this Outer Banks gem has all the ingredients for a memorable, soul-recharging vacation.

Here are 10 essential tips for making the most of your summer retreat in Buxton, NC:

1. Book Early—and Choose the Right Accommodations

Summer is peak season on Hatteras Island, and Buxton’s popularity means that accommodations fill up fast. Whether you’re looking for a large oceanfront vacation rental with a pool, a rustic cottage, or a quaint seaside condo, the key is to book early—or advance book.

Midgett Realty offers a wide range of Buxton, NC vacation rentals:

• Oceanfront homes: The Buxton oceanfront has long been popular with families and fishermen alike. Thanks to its easy access to prime surf fishing spots like Cape Point, anglers can cast lines just steps from their front door. Families love the convenience of having the beach right outside, making it simple to enjoy sun, sand, and water without packing up the car. These homes also offer spacious layouts and stunning views, creating a perfect setting for both early morning fishing and relaxed family gatherings.
• Pet-Friendly Properties: Many pet-friendly vacation rentals in Buxton offer fenced-in yards, easy beach access, and thoughtful amenities, making a seaside getaway simpler and more enjoyable for travelers and their furry friends. These homes often include outdoor showers for rinsing off paws and are located close to pet-friendly beaches and walking trails, ensuring that your four-legged companion can fully partake in the coastal fun.
• Thoughtful Amenities: Select Buxton vacation rentals offer thoughtful amenities such as state-of-the-art kitchens, private pools and hot tubs, and fish cleaning tables to ensure your stay feels like home from the moment you arrive. Many also feature smart home conveniences like keyless entry, HVAC-controlled comfort zones, and fast WiFi to keep you connected in your home away from home.

Tip: If your schedule isn’t such that you can escape for a full week, consider a Flexible Stay by Midgett Realty!

2. Visit the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

No trip to Buxton is complete without visiting the iconic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, the tallest brick lighthouse in North America. Originally constructed in 1870, this black-and-white spiraled structure has helped guide mariners through the “Graveyard of the Atlantic.” While the structure itself is closed for climbing until summer 2026, the grounds are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Things to Do in Buxton:

• Photography: Plan quiet photo sessions just after sunrise or before sunset to enjoy softer light and fewer visitors. Capture photos of unique coastal flora and fauna or simply enjoy the natural quiet.
• Nature Walks: Stroll the nearby trails that wind through dunes, coastal shrubland, and maritime forest, offering a peaceful escape and the chance to spot wildlife. Along the paths, interpretive signs share fascinating facts about local ecosystems and the lighthouse’s history.
• Hit the Beach: Don’t miss “Old Lighthouse Beach”, where the lighthouse once stood. Lifeguards monitor this beach from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
• Explore the Museum: Located in the old lighthouse keeper’s quarters, the museum showcases the region’s maritime history.

Tip: Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and harsh sun. Sunrise and sunset photography here is unbeatable.

3. Dive into Watersports and Beach Fun

The waters surrounding Buxton are a playground for outdoor enthusiasts:

• Surfing: “The First Jetty” is one of the East Coast’s top surfing destinations. It offers consistent waves and ample space for both beginners and experienced surfers.
• Kiteboarding and Windsurfing: Canadian Hole and Kite Point, just a couple of miles north of Buxton, are world-famous for their perfect wind conditions and well-maintained parking areas and access points for easy loading and unloading of your gear.
• Kayaking and Paddleboarding: The calmer waters of Pamlico Sound are ideal for paddling, exploring coastal marshes, and wildlife spotting. Sunrise and sunset paddlers will get the added reward of scenic skyscapes and cooler temperatures.
• Fishing: Surf fishing at Cape Point is especially popular due to its unique location where the Labrador and Gulf Stream currents converge, creating a rich feeding ground for a variety of fish species. Anglers love the challenge and thrill of catching red drum, bluefish, and Spanish mackerel right from the surf. The surrounding beaches offer plenty of space and breathtaking scenery, making it a rewarding experience for both serious fishermen and casual casters.

Tip: Rent gear or take lessons from local outfitters and instructors like Natural Art Surf Shop and Endless Summer Surf OBX. Water shoes, rash guards, sunscreen, and dry bags can make your day safer and more enjoyable. Knowledgeable trainers can fine tune your skills and understanding to enhance your experience in no time.

4. Explore Buxton Woods Coastal Reserve

Need a break from the beach? Buxton Woods offers miles of serene, shaded trails through one of the largest remaining maritime forests on the East Coast.

Things to Do in Buxton Include:

• Hiking: Choose from short loops or longer paths that meander through salt marshes, ancient dune ridges, and live oak canopies.
• Birdwatching: With over 360 bird species in the Outer Banks, this preserve is a haven for bird enthusiasts.

Tip: Bring water, bug spray, and closed-toe shoes. Go early in the morning to beat the heat and increase your chances of spotting wildlife.

5. Learn Local History and Culture

Buxton has a storied past tied to maritime adventure, World War II, and Outer Banks lore:

• Graveyard of the Atlantic: Stop by Buxton Village Books to do a deep-dive into tales of shipwrecks and lifesaving stations. For added knowledge, take a break from the sun and head to Hatteras Village to explore the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum or up to Rodanthe to walk the grounds and view live drills at the Chicamacomico Life Saving Station.
• British Cemetery: This small, fenced burial site nestled beneath the pines in Buxton Woods near Cape Hatteras Lighthouse honors sailors from WWII whose ship was sunk by a German U-boat. Maintained by the National Park Service in perpetuity as sovereign British soil, the site is honored each May with wreath-laying and a 21-gun salute by U.S. and British military personnel.
• Hatteras Histories & Mysteries Museum: Offers fascinating exhibits on local shipwrecks, pirates, and legends.
• Island Churches and Local Traditions: Step into historic churches or attend cultural festivals such as Hatteras Village’s Day at the Docks held annually in the month of September.

Tip: Spend a rainy afternoon or a breezy evening soaking in history—it’s an educational and meaningful way to connect with the island.

6. Try Horseback Riding, Off-Roading, and More

If you want more adventure, Buxton delivers:

• Horseback Riding on the Beach: Several outfitters offer sunset rides along the surf and through the trails of Buxton Woods.
• Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) Access: With the right permit, you can drive on the beach for surf fishing, secluded picnics, and the ultimate shelling opportunities.
• Guided Tours: From kayak tours to shelling excursions, there’s a wide variety of local tours for all interests.

Tip: Always check for beach driving restrictions and nesting closures. Secure your permits early and bring proper ORV gear.

7. Eat Like a Local

Buxton’s food scene is relaxed, flavorful, and steeped in coastal tradition:

• Orange Blossom Bakery & Café: Known for the Apple Uglies the size of your face—don’t leave town without trying one!
• Café Pamlico: Offers gourmet coastal cuisine with breathtaking views of the Pamlico Sound. Call ahead for reservations to ensure your spot is secured for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner!
• Diamond Shoals Restaurant: This long-standing island tradition offers the classic take on coastal eating with fried and broiled seafood platters, award-winning clam chowder, and plenty of tasty eats for the land lover as well. Also boasting a full sushi bar, you can watch their local team create their specialty rolls from start to finish with fresh-caught ingredients from Hatteras Island’s local waters.
• Pop’s Raw Bar: A casual spot for oysters, shrimp burgers, local brews, and live music, Pop’s Raw Bar is an island staple with the added draw of entertaining nightlife.
• Reel Swirly: Family owned and operated, this new sweet treat in the heart of Buxton offers frozen yogurt, gelato, and more, perfect for cooling off on a hot day!
• Buxton Munch Company: This beloved, locally owned sandwich and seafood shop nestled in the Osprey Shopping Center, has been serving the Outer Banks community since 1999. Known for its laid-back, groovy vibe and “Be Nice. Be Happy. Be Patient. Be Mellow.” house rules, it serves everything fresh-to-order—from standout fish and shrimp tacos and crabcakes to gourmet wraps, Angus burgers, quesadillas, salads, smoothies, and more.

Tip: During summer weekends, restaurants can get busy—arrive early or call ahead. Also, check for food trucks and nearby drive-to markets for local vendors. Remember that most restaurants and eateries stop serving food at 9pm without exception. Prepare to arrive

8. Plan Around Events and Seasonal Highlights

Summer in Buxton brings a calendar full of local events:

• July 4th Celebrations: Fireworks on the beach, pop-ups, and special community events.
• Fishing Tournaments: Fun for all ages and skill levels.
• Live Music Nights: Some local restaurants and venues host weekly music events including live music and karaoke.
• Craft Markets: Great places to find handmade art, jewelry, and coastal souvenirs.

Tip: Check online calendars and local bulletin boards. Booking your trip around an event can add a unique layer to your vacation.

9. Embrace Buxton’s Evenings and Starry Skies

One of Buxton’s underrated treasures is the night sky. With minimal light pollution, it’s a stargazer’s paradise:

• Stargazing on the Beach: Lay back and watch shooting stars or spot constellations.
• Soundside Sunsets: The western side of the island offers phenomenal sunset views over Pamlico Sound.
• Evening Bonfires: Build a legal bonfire (permits required) and enjoy the crackle of flames under a blanket of stars.

Tip: Bring a red-filter flashlight to protect your night vision and avoid disturbing wildlife.

10. Respect Buxton and Take the Outer Banks Promise:

The Outer Banks Promise is aimed at fostering responsible tourism and preserving both the Outer Banks’ history and way of life, encouraging everyone to do their part. This seven-part promise was created in hopes that everyone would take small but impactful steps to protect our area for future generations, so when you take this pledge, you promise to:

1. Discover this land of history and inspiration with a spirit of kindness and appreciation.
2. Turn “what ifs” into “let’s prepare.”
3. Pack it in, pack it out. Leave no trace.
4. Wander with wonder, sticking to roads and paths.
5. Love the beach, respect the ocean.
6. Be a wildlife star, observing animals safely from afar.
7. Support local. Small acts have big impacts.
8. Support local businesses, tip generously, and be kind to staff and neighbors.

From packing and using sustainable and eco-friendly products such as reef-safe sunscreen and reusable water bottles and grocery bags to ensuring that you leave the place just a little bit better than you found it, you can do your part in preserving Buxton’s natural beauty and charm.

Your Ideal Trip to Buxton Awaits

Buxton, NC, is more than just a beach town. It’s a place where you can reconnect—with nature, your family, and yourself. Whether you spend your days walking the scenic shoreline, paddling along the sound, savoring local seafood, or simply breathing in the salt air, this village invites you to slow down and embrace the rhythm of island life.

With a little planning, some local insight, and a spirit of adventure, your summer retreat in Buxton will be one you return to in your heart again and again.

So pack your bags, grab your sunglasses, and get ready for the perfect summer escape. Buxton is waiting!

Planning your summer in Buxton and want help choosing a vacation rental or finding a hidden gem? Reach out—we’d love to help you build the trip of a lifetime. Call us today or find us online at midgettrealty.com!