Avon (originally Kinnakeet) is the largest commercial center on Hatteras Island and a popular base for family beach trips. Beyond the Avon Pier, the town offers excellent kiteboarding, beachfront rentals, several restaurants, and convenient access to both Cape Point (south) and the Tri-Villages (north).
Fish or Walk the Avon Pier
A historic Atlantic Ocean pier in the heart of town. Pier fishing year-round (small fee). Excellent for cobia (early summer), king mackerel (late summer/fall), Spanish mackerel, bluefish, and red drum. Even non-anglers enjoy walking the pier for views.
Beach Driving via Ramp 38
Ramp 38 is the main Avon ORV access, near the pier. Wider, easier ramp than Buxton’s ramps and generally less crowded. NPS ORV permit required. Good ramp for first-time beach drivers.
Kiteboarding & Windsurfing
Avon’s soundside is a major kiteboarding destination. Real Watersports (one of the most famous kiteboarding schools in the world) is based here. Steady winds 200+ days per year. Both lessons and rentals available.
Shop & Dine
- Real Kiteboarding shop / cafe
- Mad Crabber — Seafood and family dining
- Café Pamlico — Coffee and breakfast
- Food Lion — Main grocery for the central Hatteras area
- Outer Banks Boil Company — Local seafood boils delivered
Family Activities
- Wide, gentle beaches good for younger kids
- Sound-side wade fishing and crabbing
- Avon’s mini-golf course
- Bike paths along NC-12 (mostly flat)
- Sunset beach walks (Avon faces east — sunrise is the showstopper)
Day Trips From Avon
- Cape Point (Buxton) — 20 minutes south for fishing and photography
- Canadian Hole — 10 minutes south for premier kiteboarding
- Rodanthe Pier — 25 minutes north
- Hatteras Lighthouse — 25 minutes south
- Hatteras-Ocracoke Ferry — 45 minutes south for a day trip to Ocracoke
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is Avon Pier fishing?
Avon Pier charges daily, weekly, and seasonal fishing rates that change yearly. Sightseeing on the pier (no fishing) is typically free or a nominal fee. Check the pier’s official site for current rates before your trip.
Is Avon a good base for a family beach trip?
Yes — arguably the best Hatteras Island town for families. More restaurants and grocery options than Buxton, easier ramp access for beach driving, and central location for day trips both north and south.
What is “Canadian Hole” and is it in Avon?
Canadian Hole (officially Haulover Day Use Area) is a NPS site between Avon and Buxton, roughly 5 minutes south of Avon. It is world-famous for kiteboarding and windsurfing due to consistent winds and shallow sound water.
Are there bike rentals in Avon?
Yes — several local shops rent bikes and beach gear. Many vacation rentals also include bikes. NC-12 has paved shoulders and dedicated bike paths through Avon, making it bike-friendly.
How crowded does Avon get in summer?
Busy but rarely overwhelmingly so. The town has more rental capacity than Buxton, which spreads visitors out. The beaches feel less crowded than Cape Point or Rodanthe Pier. Restaurants need reservations on summer weekends.