Home to the tallest living sand dune on the Atlantic coast. You can reach the top two ways: either a mile-long sand-covered trail (do this in shoes as the sand can be as much as 30 degrees hotter than the air temperature) or use the 360-foot boardwalk to walk to the top. Once at the peak, you can tap into your adventurous side by sandboarding (which requires a free permit from the park office), take hang gliding lessons or pilot a Wright Brothers 1902 glider replica with Kitty Hawk Kites, or relive your childhood and simply fly a kite. Just remember to bring your own kite or sandboard along with you. For nature enthusiasts, the park also has several other trails you can wander and spot fulgurites (glass tubes formed when lightning hits the sand) – but removal of them is not allowed. Recent travelers said a visit to the park is a great experience for the whole family, and report that the top of the dunes provide stunning panoramic views of the coast
The gardens are open from March from January (closed February) with hours that vary by season. Admission costs $9 for adults and $6 for ages 6 to 17. Tickets for children 5 and younger cost $2. Visit the garden's website for more details This 10.5-acre public garden, located less than 3 miles north of the North Carolina Aquarium, offers a peaceful sanctuary with more than 500 different species of plants, including collections of hydrangeas, camellias, historic herbs and native coastal species. The camellia collection is a highlight, boasting more than 85 varieties. Another treasure of the gardens is a particular rose, found in the rose garden, which was sent by Queen Elizabeth II from the royal rose garden at Windsor Castle in 1976. Don't miss the ancient live oak on the property, estimated to have been living in 1585 when the first colonists landed in the area.
April 27 – June 7(first price 18 holes, second 9 holes). Includes cart, green fee, taxes: Regular: $91 | $50 Mid-Day:11:30 a.m. - $72 | $40 Twilight: 2:00 p.m. - $62 | $35 Junior: $51 | $30
the tallest in the United States, has long protected passing ships from the fierce currents and hidden sand bars that earned the area the nickname "the graveyard of the Atlantic." You should also keep an eye out for Cape Hatteras' wildlife: A wide array of birds (more than 360 species) can be found here, mingling with sea turtles along the golden shores.
The aquarium is open daily (except Thanksgiving and Christmas) from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets cost $12.95 for adults, while seniors, military personnel and children between 3 and 12 receive reduced rates.