Unique Things to Do in Avon, NC, and Hatteras Island This Winter
Winter on Hatteras Island offers visitors a glimpse into the quiet simplicity of life on the OBX. From the empty beaches to uncrowded streets, it’s a time when the raw, natural beauty of the area is on full display.
It’s also a time when holiday fun and exciting winter wonders are happening! If you’re planning a visit to the Outer Banks this winter, be sure to check out these unique things to do in Avon, NC, and Hatteras Island. Whether you’re embarking on a wildlife tour or enjoying a Christmas event, you’re guaranteed to fall in love with the magic of the off-season.
Is Avon a Good Vacation Spot?
If what you want from your vacation is a spot with unlimited entertainment options, then Avon, NC, may not be the best for your winter getaway. However, if you’re looking for a chance to reconnect with nature, enjoy quality family time, and return to a slower pace of life, then Avon and the rest of Hatteras Island have all the makings of a perfect winter escape.
Unique Things to Do in Avon, NC, This Winter
Winter Wildlife Encounters
Some of the most fun things to do in Avon, NC, in the winter involve getting outside and experiencing the unique wildlife of the OBX. One of the best ways to do this is by heading out on a guided kayak tour like the ones offered by Outer Banks Kayak Adventures. Their Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge tour offers a 1.5-hour excursion through the Pamlico Sound salt marshes. During the tour, you’ll learn all about the unique ecosystems of the OBX and what differentiates this area from the rest of the eastern shoreline.
Birding is another popular winter activity in Avon, NC. With more than 40 different species of migratory birds making their way to the Outer Banks each year, plus the hundreds of species that live here year-round, your chance of seeing incredible winged creatures is at an all-time high. Head out on a free Pea Island Bird Walk and see how many unique varieties you can spot. From the majestic heron to the stunning Harlequin duck, there are some truly magnificent birds to see.
Another ever-popular thing to do in Avon, NC, and all along the shores of the OBX is shell hunting. With so many varieties and a mostly vacant beach, you’ll have your pick of sea! Comb the beach for shark teeth, sand dollars, conch shells, and more. But remember, it’s important to only collect empty shells or species that are no longer living. If you’re unsure, it’s best to leave it in the ocean.
After a full day of exploring, relax at your Brindley Beach vacation rental and gaze up at the night sky. With less light pollution, Avon has some of the darkest skies on the East Coast, making it easy to spot planets and even the Milky Way!
Holiday Events and Unique Festivals on Hatteras Island
Hatteras Village Christmas Parade
December 14 | 2 – 5 PM
One of the most beloved Christmas traditions on Hatteras Island, the annual Christmas Parade brings together locals, visitors, and businesses to ring in the season. Enjoy coastal-themed floats and a celebration with cocoa and cookies at the end of the route. Candy, toys, and prizes will be tossed into the crowd, and Santa himself will round out the festivities, so be sure to get there early for the best spot. The route runs for a mile along Hwy 12.
Christmas Light Festival
December 1 – 15 | 5 – 8 PM
Just 20 minutes from Avon, the Frisco Woods Campground will be illuminated with thousands of twinkling lights for its annual light festival. Catch a glimpse of island-themed holiday pirates, as well as Christmas favorites from Charlie Brown, A Christmas Story, the nativity scene, and more. Visitors can drive or walk through the displays for $5 per group, with proceeds benefitting the construction of a new Frisco-Buxton Pathway. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy simple family fun on your winter vacation.
Shucks Hatteras Oyster Festival
December 20 – 21
From shucking contests to all-you-can-eat oyster roasts, the Shucks Hatteras Oyster Festival is back and better than ever. Enjoy a weekend of live music, art vendors, cooking competitions, and delicious Kinnakeet Oyster Co. oysters when you visit. All proceeds from the festival go to benefit the Life-Saving station.
Perks of a Winter Vacation to Avon, NC
One of the most popular reasons families visit Avon, NC, and Hatteras Island in the winter is because of the convenience and affordability compared to spring and summer. Fewer crowds mean less demand, leading to lower rates on vacation rentals, which keeps money in your pocket for things like fishing trips, boat charters, museums, and other activities.
Fewer people also mean you can dine at local restaurants without dealing with long wait times. The largely empty beaches make it feel like you have the entire shore to yourself, and the quiet nights create a peaceful atmosphere that lets you fully sink into relaxation.
Beyond Avon, NC, and Hatteras Island
While there are plenty of things to do in Avon, NC, and on Hatteras Island as a whole, if you have the time for a short road trip and are looking to explore the larger Outer Banks area during your vacation, there are some excellent activities you won’t want to miss.
Top attractions include the Corolla Christmas Village, happening through December 28th, Winter Lights at the Elizabethan Gardens, self-guided walking tours of Ocracoke or Roanoke with OuterLore, and catching a glimpse of the wild horses in Corolla.
With less traffic on the roads, taking the time to explore beyond the southern shores lets you see a side of the Outer Banks you may miss if you’re just visiting for an annual beach vacation.
Come Home to a Brindley Beach Vacation Rental
Featured Property: HIW205: End of the Rainbow
Winter in the Outer Banks means vacationers have their pick of the largest inventory at the best prices. From Avon, NC, and Hatteras Island to the Northern OBX areas, Brindley Beach offers one of the largest selections of Outer Banks homes, making it easy to find a place perfect for your family.
Choose a home with a fireplace, hot tub, or heated pool for the ultimate cozy winter getaway, or browse our entire inventory of Hatteras Island vacation rentals.
When you find your ideal spot, be sure to book it directly with Brindley Beach Vacations and Sales for the best rate on your stay. Our local staff is ready and excited to assist you with everything from booking to check-out. We can even help you find great things to do in Avon, NC, Hatteras, and beyond!
Browse our available Avon, NC vacation rentals, Hatteras homes, or our northern properties, and start planning your winter vacation today!
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