Guide to Celebrating the 4th of July on Hatteras Island

Ice down the cooler, light up the grill, and get ready for an incredible 4th of July weekend along the North Carolina coast! From endless beach days and decorative golf cart parades to epic firework shows and tons of quality family time, the Outer Banks is the best place to celebrate Independence Day. As you plan your holiday travel, we’ve created a list of tips and top things to do so you can enjoy everything the area has to offer. Whether you’re looking for casual fun or festive events, this guide to celebrating the 4th of July on Hatteras Island has it all. Check out our suggestions below and start preparing for a fantastic getaway today.

Spend Time on the Water

Known for its unspoiled beaches and gorgeous natural areas, Hatteras Island is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. When you visit for the 4th of July, take some time to indulge in the area's laid-back lifestyle by spending days on the water and relaxing in the sun. Whether you’re kayaking, paddleboarding, surfing, or just floating on the waves, beach days are a must during your OBX vacation.

Beyond the shore, the waters around Hatteras Island are some of the most fertile on the East Coast. So, if fishing is on your agenda, you won’t be disappointed. Whether you’re a total novice or an avid angler, you can catch more than a wave during your 4th of July visit. Cast a line from a local pier or book a charter and head out beyond the surf as you try your luck at catching Yellowfin, King Mackerel, Marlin, Giant Red Drum, and more. After a full day of adventure, head back to your Hatteras Island vacation rental and cook up a fresh feast.

From sandcastle days to ghost crab hunting nights, spending time at the beach is one of the most popular things to do on Hatteras Island, especially over the 4th of July.

Enjoy Community Events

Hatteras Island and the rest of the Outer Banks communities host a variety of events to celebrate the 4th of July, so when you’re ready to step away from the beach, be sure to add a few of these to your itinerary. 

• Hatteras Village Golf Cart Parade—Celebrating its 11th year, the golf cart parade is a beloved 4th of July tradition that invites locals and visitors to go all out with their patriotic cart decorations. Free to enter and watch, the parade will pass along N.C. Highway 12 between Teach’s Lair Marina and Eagle Pass Road. After the parade, keep the fun going at the community cookout, where you can enjoy delicious burgers and hotdogs.
• Ocracoke’s Weekend of Festivities—About an hour from Hatteras Island, the community of Ocracoke hosts a weekend of 4th of July events that range from pre-holiday fireworks shows and an old-fashioned square dance to a sand sculpture contest and Independence Day Parade. It’s the perfect day trip from your Hatteras Island vacation rental, especially if you take the free ferry boat.
• Town of Duck’s Award-Winning Fun—Named one of the Top 10 Best Small-Town Independence Day Celebrations by ABC News, the Town of Duck will host its annual 4th of July Parade at 9AM on the 4th. Featuring live music, an awards ceremony, and a cookout at the end of the route, you can mingle with the locals and enjoy great family-friendly fun. Plus, since it’s just a short drive from Hatteras Island, you can easily make the trip and be back in time for the evening Hatteras fireworks.

Whether you stick around your vacation rental or venture out into surrounding OBX areas, your 4th of July is sure to be full of community celebration when you take advantage of these popular events.  

Watch 4th of July Fireworks on Hatteras Island

Avon Pier is the most popular spot for 4th of July fireworks on Hatteras Island. Established in 1963, it’s one of the area's most famous landmarks and makes for a spectacular viewing spot. While 2024 details have not officially been announced at the time of writing, the fireworks typically happen at 9PM over the Cape Hatteras National Seashore Beach. Grab your blankets and chairs and arrive early so you can set up for the evening.

Other 4th of July Celebrations and Fireworks Displays in the Outer Banks

• Corolla Independence Day Celebration at Historic Corolla Park
• Manteo’s 4th of July Street Fair
• Kill Devil Hills Fireworks at Avalon Pier
• Nags Head Fishing Pier Fireworks Spectacular

Regardless of how you spend your day, when night falls on Hatteras Island and the OBX, no matter where you are, you’ll be treated to phenomenal displays that will light up the skies in patriotic wonder.

Beat the Crowds – Book Your Vacation Rental Early

The 4th of July is arguably the most popular holiday in the Outer Banks, and as such, vacation rentals book quickly. If you’re planning on visiting this year, make sure you beat the crowds and reserve your home before they’re all gone! Brindley Beach has several beautiful Hatteras Island properties that are still available for the 4th of July. So, whether you’re looking for a single or multi-family home, you can browse our selection and find a vacation rental that’s perfect for you. When you're ready, remember to book directly with Brindley Beach for the best rates in the Outer Banks!