These Native Americans set up thriving communities in virtually all areas of Hatteras Island, from the outskirts of Rodanthe, or 'Chicamacomico,' to the edges of Hatteras village, or 'Hatterask.' For centuries, they were the islands' only residents, and they carved out a picturesque life that was rich in seafood, small game, and lots of peaceful and confrontation-free living.īy the 1600s and 1700s European settlers had discovered the area, paying particular attention to the seafood rich coastlines, the lush maritime forests loaded with quality timber, and the two inlets, Hatteras and Ocracoke Inlets, which provided a reliable route from the ocean to the mainland. The first residents were small communities of Native Americans, who were satellite branches of the Algonquin Tribe. While not always a National Seashore and therefore managed and maintained under the federal government administration, the Cape Hatteras National Seashore was always a secluded destination and scenic home for centuries of Hatteras and Ocracoke Islanders.

History of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore Luckily, with so many secluded spots to enjoy, no matter how many people are checking out the seashore, you'll almost always feel like the only one on the beach. With plenty of places to spread out a beach blanket, and completely unobstructed ocean views, it's no wonder that this natural attraction caters to almost a million beachgoers or road trippers every year. The seashore spans from the soundside to the oceanside, and is open to everyone who adores a pristine and undeveloped length of seashore, as well as some of the Outer Banks' best birding, surfing, fishing, shelling and all around beach-going activities. Note: Find current official vehicle and pedestrian beach closings here. One of the largest preserved parcels of the Outer Banks, the National Seashore stretches across 70 miles of shoreline, encompassing seven villages on Hatteras Island, and providing visitors with miles of undisturbed, scenic beaches as well as some of the prettiest natural drives on the East Coast. Visitors to Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands will simultaneously be visiting the gorgeous Cape Hatteras National Seashore.

Cape hatteras national seashore