Gliding across the Pamlico Sound in a kayak is an experience that perfectly captures what’s so special about Hatteras Island and a vacation on the Outer Banks – it’s a mix of relaxation, fun and adventure through stunning natural scenery and abundant wildlife, a day that’s guaranteed to crystallize into a standout summer memory. No matter where you’re staying on the Outer Banks, from the northern beaches to farther south on Hatteras or Ocracoke, exploring Hatteras by kayak is a memory maker.
At OceanAir Sports in Avon, there’s no need to transport equipment. Just bring your sunscreen and water bottle, walk down to the Pamlico Sound and hop in the kayak that’s ready to go. They have sit-on-top models with single and double seats that are family-friendly and very easy to use. The calm, shallow waters of the Pamlico Sound make the trip safe and fun.
You’ll start your self-guided Hatteras kayak adventure in Avon at the OceanAir Sports complex. The staff there will train you how to paddle and give you the lowdown on places to explore. They’ll even give you a map of the Pamlico showing canals, islands and other points of interest. Then you and your friends and family will embark on a self-guided tour through the saltwater marsh habitat of the Pamlico Sound.
From the sheltered soundfront location at OceanAir Sports, you’re off on a choose-your-own adventure. The Pamlico Sound is the largest lagoon on the East Coast, so there’s a lot to explore. Wildlife and waterfowl are abundant; depending on the season, you can see ducks, egrets, herons, loons, gulls and ospreys, to name but a few, as well as plentiful fish, dolphins and sea turtles.
If you’re looking for solitude and relaxation, head north out of OceanAir Sports and explore miles of secluded Pamlico coastline. There are numerous soundfront beaches, and you can discover an old-growth oak tree forest and a historic graveyard. Or, heading south, you can weave in and out of the creeks and canals that wind through the village of Avon, historically known as Kinnakeet. There are beaches along this route, too. You can also choose to kayak out to Big Island, a good landmark to circumnavigate.
When you’re finished kayaking, more adventure on Hatteras awaits. Ocean access is right across the street from OceanAir Sports. There’s free parking, and you can discover the magic of a Hatteras Island ocean beach. Swimming, surfing, shelling and sunbathing make for a fun day.
From OceanAir Sports you can also choose your own adventure to explore the rest of Hatteras Island, each village with its own unique restaurants, shops and art galleries. Heading north to Rodanthe you’ll find the historic Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station Historic Site. Going south from Avon you’ll find Buxton, where you won’t want to miss the towering Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. If you want to give your legs a workout to match that of your arms after kayaking, try a lighthouse climb. The views from the top don’t disappoint. Then drive south through the residential village of Frisco and into the village of Hatteras for a look at a working fishing community and the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum. If you time your arrival for late afternoon, you can walk the docks and see the fresh catch come in from the ocean.
Save a seat for your Hatteras Island adventure with OceanAir Sports by calling or submitting an online registration. They also offer kayaks and lots of other water equipment for daily, overnight, two-day, three-day or weekly rentals. Kayaks are available for delivery at soundside homes or along canals in the village of Avon. No deposits or reservations are required for the two-hour kayak tour, but give OceanAir Sports a call if you have any questions or to let them know that you’d like a kayak so they can have everything loaded up and ready for to go.
If you’re looking for a more thrilling Hatteras Island adventure, OceanAir Sports is also a top destination for windsurfing, kiteboarding and wind and wave foiling on Pamlico Sound. They offer lessons and rentals and sell the gear you need to get set up.
A day of fun, relaxation and adventure exploring Hatteras Island on the water is sure to be one of your favorite summer memories to look back on for years to come.
Reserve Your Adventure Now!
No Deposit or Credit Card Required
Call (252) 995-5000 or visit oceanairsports.com
About the Author Heather Frese
Heather Frese fell in love with the Outer Banks when she was three years old. She grew up camping every summer on Hatteras Island, and her writing is deeply influenced by the history and wild beauty of the area. Her debut novel, The Baddest Girl on the Planet, won the Lee Smith Novel Prize and is set on Hatteras Island. 
