The main attractions are the wild beauty and vast expanses of sand and water. A few villages are scattered along the Outer Banks Scenic Byway, providing easy stopover points for food, lodging and cultural heritage. Bottlenose dolphins can often be seen close to shore, shorebirds and waterfowl abound, and seashell hunters will find a good variety. The sand is soft and deep at times. Motorists should park in designated areas and only leave the road where off-road vehicle travel is permitted.
The national seashore is public property; residents and visitors have free access to the ocean and soundside. State fishing regulations apply to waters inside and outside the boundaries of the park. Regulated waterfowl hunting is permitted within sections of the seashore, excluding Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge. Day-use facilities are at Coquina Beach, Buxton Beach near the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse and on Ocracoke Island. For more information phone (252) 473-2111 or (252) 475-9000.