BeachMapCape Hatteras
Wild, undeveloped barrier-island sand under the iconic lighthouse — National Seashore access is free, but you’ll need an ORV permit to drive onto the beach itself.
Buxton, North Carolina · live parking & conditions · updated June 14, 2026
- WhereBuxton, North Carolina
- CostFree
- ParkingFree National Seashore access; ORV permit to drive on
- AmenitiesRestrooms · Showers · Lifeguard
Parking at Cape Hatteras
Free National Seashore access; ORV permit to drive on. Parking here swings hour to hour in summer. BeachMap shows Cape Hatteras's real-time parking status — open, filling, or full — reported by other beachgoers, so you can pick a beach that still has space before you drive over.
Check Cape Hatteras parking on the live map →Conditions & tides
Tap Cape Hatteras on the map for live surf, wind, water temperature, UV and tide times, plus recent photos and ratings from other visitors.
Open Cape Hatteras on the map →Cape Hatteras — FAQ
- Is there parking at Cape Hatteras?
- Free National Seashore access; ORV permit to drive on. BeachMap shows Cape Hatteras's real-time parking status — open, filling, or full — reported by other beachgoers, so you can check before you drive over.
- Is Cape Hatteras free?
- Yes — Cape Hatteras is free to access.
- What's at Cape Hatteras?
- Cape Hatteras has restrooms, showers, lifeguard. Tap it on the live map for current conditions and recent photos.