x
Breaking News
More () »

Cape Hatteras Sees Highest Visitation Since 2003

The National Park Service says Cape Hatteras recorded a 5.7 percent increase in total recreational visits in 2018 compared to 2017

If you've ever vacationed or staycationed anywhere along the Outer Banks, you're not going to be surprised by this story. 

The Cape Hatteras National Seashore is reporting the area is seeing an increase in visitors. The National Park Service says Cape Hatteras recorded a 5.7 percent increase in total recreational visits in 2018 compared to 2017. Last year’s visitation (2,572,297) made it the busiest year at the Seashore since 2003.

RELATED: 7 Pier Fishing Destinations In The Outer Banks

RELATED: Bonner Bridge Replacement Finally Opening at Outer Banks

Here's a breakdown of 2018 monthly visitors for January-December:
January:  60,934
February: 76,818
March: 179,199
April: 175,377
May: 248,423
June: 389,722
July: 405,038
August: 387,698
September: 250,105
October: 201,269
November: 135,634
December: 62,080

The Seashore offers a variety of recreational activities, including beach recreation (swimming, sunbathing, shell collecting, etc.); off-road vehicle use; fishing from the surf, boats, and piers; waterfowl hunting; lighthouse climbing; interpretive programs with a park ranger; camping; hiking; kayaking; watersports (surfing, windsurfing, kiteboarding, etc.); and wildlife viewing.

Whether you are enjoying the beach, kayaking the sound, or climbing the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse there is something for everyone to explore at Cape Hatteras National Seashore!

RELATED: Volunteers Clean up Shrimp Boat Wreckage in Outer Banks

RELATED: 'A Cherished Part of NC's History': Corolla Horses Could Get More Protection Under Federal Bill

METHODOLOGY:

Visitation estimates are collected by counting southbound vehicles just north of the Bonner Bridge and using a multiplier to estimate the total number of passengers heading south. Those estimates are added to the number of passengers going to Ocracoke Island from Cedar Island and Swan Quarter.

The Seashore offers a variety of recreational activities, including beach recreation (swimming, sunbathing, shell collecting, etc.); off-road vehicle use; fishing from the surf, boats, and piers; waterfowl hunting; lighthouse climbing; interpretive programs with a park ranger; camping; hiking; kayaking; watersports (surfing, windsurfing, kiteboarding, etc.); and wildlife viewing.

Whether you are enjoying the beach, kayaking the sound, or climbing the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse there is something for everyone to explore at Cape Hatteras National Seashore!

RELATED: Cape Hatteras Park Vandalized During Shutdown

RELATED: A Ride With 'Wild Horse Adventure Tours' in the Outer Banks

RELATED: Outer Banks Town Tightens Rules On Beach Tents, Canopies

Before You Leave, Check This Out