Ramp 43 provides year-round off-road vehicle and pedestrian access to the beaches near Cape Hatteras and to the cape itself. It is one of the primary access points for the legendary Cape Point fishing area, and like its sister ramp 44, it is designated a Priority ORV Ramp by the National Park Service.
Priority ORV ramp — opens earlier in summer mornings during night-driving restrictions, providing extended morning access for surf anglers.
Quick Facts
| Island | Hatteras Island |
| Nearest Village | Buxton (north of Cape Point) |
| Access Type | ORV + pedestrian |
| Priority Ramp | Yes |
| Parking | Limited parking at the turnabout — typically just a handful of spaces |
| ORV Permit | Required — Cape Hatteras ORV Permit (annual $120, 10-day $50) |
| Open Year-Round | Yes |
Location & Aerial View
Get driving directions to Ramp 43 →
What to Expect at Ramp 43
Vehicles can drive a short distance north of Ramp 43 before the beach transitions to pedestrian-only zoning closer to the cape. The turnabout at the top of the ramp has only a handful of parking spaces, so plan to drive on rather than park. The Cape Point area is famous for its current line, drum runs, and shorebird nesting — expect significant seasonal resource closures from spring through summer.
Access Summary
Priority year-round ORV ramp. Subject to extensive seasonal closures around Cape Point for nesting piping plover, American oystercatcher, and sea turtles.
Hours of Operation
Cape Hatteras National Seashore ORV ramps follow a seasonal schedule. As a priority ramp, Ramp 43 opens earlier in summer mornings than non-priority ramps during the night-driving wildlife protection period.
| Season | Hours |
|---|---|
| May 1 – September 14 | 6:00 AM – midnight |
| September 15 – November 15 | 6:00 AM – midnight |
| November 16 – April 30 | Open 24 hours |
Hours can change — always confirm at go.nps.gov/beachaccess before driving.
Nearby Amenities
Village of Buxton just inland — full services, including the famous Cape Point Campground entrance road and the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse complex. Note: as of recent NPS updates, the beachfront from north Buxton to near Ramp 43 has been closed to public entry due to storm damage — verify current status before driving.
Beach Driving Tips for Ramp 43
Cape Point is the most heavily managed area of the seashore. Check the live ramp status at go.nps.gov/beachaccess before heading out — closures can shift the access pattern overnight. Air down to 18-20 psi for the soft sand around the cape.
Before you drive on: see our guides to airing down your tires, reading the tide chart, and packing the right recovery gear. New to ORV permits? Start with our Cape Hatteras ORV permit guide.
Surf Fishing at Ramp 43
Cape Point is among the most famous surf-fishing spots on the East Coast. The intersection of the Labrador and Gulf Stream currents creates a productive rip line just offshore. Drum, cobia, false albacore, king mackerel, Spanish mackerel — and during the spring and fall runs, almost anything else.
Seasonal Wildlife Closures
Cape Hatteras National Seashore protects nesting piping plover, American oystercatcher, least tern, colonial waterbirds, and sea turtles. Resource closures around active nests can shift overnight and may restrict or eliminate access through Ramp 43 from spring through late summer. Always check the live ramp status at go.nps.gov/beachaccess before driving out.
Adjacent Ramps
North: Ramp 38 | South: Ramp 44
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Ramp 43 located?
Ramp 43 is on Hatteras Island near Buxton (north of Cape Point), off NC-12 within Cape Hatteras National Seashore.
Do I need a permit to drive on the beach at Ramp 43?
Yes. You need a valid Cape Hatteras National Seashore ORV permit ($120 annual or $50 for 10 days). Permits are sold online at Recreation.gov and you must show your driver’s license and vehicle registration to pick one up.
Is Ramp 43 open year-round?
Yes, Ramp 43 is open to ORVs year-round, subject to weather closures and seasonal wildlife resource closures.
Can I drive on the beach with AWD instead of 4WD?
It depends on the vehicle. See our guide to AWD vs 4WD for OBX beach driving for details. Either way you must air down to 18-20 psi and carry recovery gear.
Source: National Park Service — Beach Access Ramp 43. Live ramp status: go.nps.gov/beachaccess.