Cape Hatteras National Seashore Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour

Embark on a captivating drive along the Cape Hatteras National Seashore with this self-guided tour of North Carolina's Outer Banks. Dive into a rich tapestry of history, from tales of the Lost Colony to the legendary pirate Blackbeard as you marvel at stunning oceanside scenery. Visit the majestic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, encounter the unique marine wonders of the Pamlico Sound, and so much more. This tour ends at the Hatteras Ferry in case you want to keep the adventure going on the remote island of Ocracoke. The barrier islands await! After booking, check your email/text to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and enjoy it offline. Follow the audio instructions and route from the designated starting point. New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want. This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.

1. 1

   Stop 1

   5 min

   Begin your journey at this convenient visitor center, the official starting point for the Cape Hatteras National Seashore audio tour.

2. 2

   Bodie Island Lighthouse

   5 min

   Discover one of the Outer Banks’ most recognizable historic lighthouses. The present lighthouse dates to the 1870s and has guided sailors through these dangerous coastal waters for generations.

3. 3

   Coquina Beach

   5 min

   Enjoy a beautiful stretch of Outer Banks shoreline known for its coquina clams and the remains of the shipwrecked schooner Laura Barnes.

4. 4

   Stop 4

   5 min

   See the natural waterway connecting Pamlico Sound with the Atlantic Ocean. The inlet was created by a powerful hurricane in 1846 and has continued shifting over time.

5. 5

   Stop 5

   5 min

   Cross the impressive bridge spanning Oregon Inlet while taking in broad views of the surrounding water and barrier islands. It is an important link along the scenic NC-12 route.

6. 6

   Oregon Inlet Life Saving Station

   5 min

   See a historic life-saving station dating to the 1800s, when rescue crews watched these dangerous shores and responded to frequent shipwrecks.

7. 7

   Stop 7

   5 min

   Travel beside one of the region’s great estuaries, home to blue crabs, striped bass, birds, and many other species that thrive where fresh and salt water meet.

8. 8

   Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge

   5 min

   Drive through miles of protected coastal habitat famous for migratory birds and beautiful natural scenery. The refuge is an important stop along the Atlantic Flyway.

9. 9

   Stop 9

   5 min

   Take a break at this spacious beach for sweeping coastal views and a chance to spot local wildlife, including loggerhead sea turtles.

10. 10

    Stop 10

    5 min

    Cross this modern bridge built to carry NC-12 above areas vulnerable to flooding, erosion, and shifting sand along the Outer Banks.

11. 11

    Rodanthe

    5 min

    Pass through this small seaside community made famous by Nights in Rodanthe. The surrounding landscape showcases the changing nature of the Outer Banks.

12. 12

    Stop 12

    5 min

    Explore a historic rescue station where surfmen once lived, trained, and used specialized equipment to save sailors from shipwrecks.

13. 13

    Stop 13

    5 min

    Stop by this small local gift shop featuring handmade crafts, jewelry, fishing items, and a touch of Hatteras Island history and nostalgia.

14. 14

    Cape Hatteras National Seashore

    5 min

    Experience a protected stretch of the Outer Banks known for historic lighthouses, beaches, wildlife, and remarkably undeveloped coastal landscapes.

15. 15

    Stop 15

    5 min

    Visit a popular waterfront spot where strong coastal winds make ideal conditions for kitesurfing and windsurfing. It is also a great place to watch riders in action.

16. 16

    Buxton

    5 min

    Travel through this small Hatteras Island community near some of Cape Hatteras’ best-known natural and historic attractions.

17. 17

    Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

    5 min

    See the iconic black-and-white spiral lighthouse built to help sailors navigate the dangerous waters around Cape Hatteras. The historic structure was famously moved inland in 1999 to protect it from erosion.

18. 18

    Stop 18

    5 min

    Visit the dramatic eastern tip of Cape Hatteras, where powerful ocean currents meet and constantly reshape the coastline. The area is especially popular with anglers and adventure seekers.

19. 19

    Stop 19

    5 min

    Learn about the dangerous underwater sandbars extending offshore from Cape Hatteras. These hidden shoals contributed to countless shipwrecks and the region’s reputation as the “Graveyard of the Atlantic.

20. 20

    Stop 20

    5 min

    Visit a quiet memorial site honoring British sailors who lost their lives while fighting German U-boats off the North Carolina coast during World War II.

21. 21

    Stop 21

    5 min

    Explore a small historic community at the southern end of Hatteras Island with deep connections to Civil War history, fishing, and Outer Banks culture.

22. 22

    Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum

    5 min

    Discover the rich maritime history of the Outer Banks, including stories of shipwrecks, sailors, warfare, and the historic Hotel De Afrique.

23. 23

    Stop 23

    5 min

    See this waterfront marina named after Edward Teach, better known as the legendary pirate Blackbeard. It sits near the southern end of the tour route.

24. 24

    Stop 24

    5 min

    Reach the southern endpoint of the driving tour and the ferry gateway to Ocracoke Island. Travelers can continue their Outer Banks adventure from here.

25. 25

    Stop 25

    5 min

    Continue by ferry to this historic island known for its Banker horses, maritime heritage, and strong connections to the legends of Blackbeard.

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Easy to use: GPS-triggered audio plays automatically along the route for a hands-free experience.
• Private tour: Explore in your own vehicle without crowded buses or large tour groups.
• At your own pace: Start anytime and pause for hikes, picnics, photos, or scenic stops.
• Works offline: Once downloaded, the tour works using GPS without Wi-Fi or cellular service.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.