Cape Hatteras KOA

Ocracoke Island and Lighthouse

Ocracoke Island is a 14-mile picturesque fishing village. Once home to Blackbeard the pirate, who was slain here in 1718. British Cemetery, which features graves of four Royal Navy sailers, who were killed in 1942. Ocracoke Lighthouse is the oldest lighthouse still operating in North Carolina, built in 1823. The National Park Service operates a visitor center May through September.

Wright Brothers National Memorial and Jockey’s Ridge Sand Dune

This memorial is the site of the first powered flight on December 17, 1903. The visitor center features a full-scale reproduction of the Wright Flyer; granite monument, historical markers, reconstructed hanger, public airstrip. Open year-round.

In close proximity is the world’s largest sand dune (140 feet) and Jockey’s Ridge State Park. Self-guided trail, picnic facilities, nature programs in summer. Perfect for hang gliding, kite flying and climbing.

Lost Colony Outdoor Drama (evenings)

Pulitzer-prize winner Paul Green’s symphonic outdoor drama that tells the story of the first English attempt at settlement with spectacular pageantry. With its unique blend of drama, stirring music, energetic dance and dazzling costumes, The Lost Colony is the perfect vacation entertainment for your entire family.

Roanoke Island and the Historical Elizabethan Ship

Roanoke Island is where the English first settled in America. This 12-mile long island is also where you’ll discover the quaint fishing village of Wanchese, home of the Wanchese Seafood Industrial Park. Elizabeth II State Historic site hosts a 69-foot, square-rigged sailing representative of those used to transport England’s first colonists to the New World in 1585. Berthed in Manteo’s quaint waterfront. Guided tours and a video program, “A Roanoke Voyage” are available. During the summer season, living history interpreters portray mariners.

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is the tallest brick lighthouse on American coast at 208 feet high. Former keeper’s quarters serves as a visitor center. From April to mid-October, visitors are welcome to climb the 268 steps to the top for a spectacular view of the national seashore.

Elizabethan Gardens

The Garden Club of North Carolina has created a beautiful 16th century style as a memorial to the ill-fated lost colonists. Flower-bordered walkways, sweet-scented blossoms, ancient garden statuary, 16th century herbs, wildflowers area, English portraits and gazebo highlight the Elizabethan Gardens.

North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island

Sharks and loggerhead turtles are among the living marine creatures on exhibit at the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island. Touch starfish and sea urchins. This marine education and research facility includes an aquaria, exhibits, field trips, guided tours and other group activities by appointment. Open year round.