Cape Hatteras alerts

Sections of beachfront in front of Buxton Village are temporarily closed.

• The closure is due to threatened oceanfront structures and Dare County’s beach nourishment project.
• Renourished sections reopen immediately after construction activities conclude in each area, generally within 24 hours.

Check current park conditions before visiting.

Billy Mitchell Airport (HSE) is closed for a runway pavement rehabilitation project.

• The project includes full resurfacing of paved areas, new reflective paint, and new tie-downs and anchors to improve visitor safety and enhance the overall visitor experience.

Check current park conditions before traveling.

Public access is closed within 300 feet north and south of the southernmost groin repair project in Buxton, including the adjacent ocean area to the east.

• The closure is in place during Dare County’s groin repair project for safety.
• Surfers, swimmers, and all other recreationists should stay at least 300 feet from the southernmost groin area.

Check current park conditions before visiting.

The Buxton Beach Access parking lot and beach walkover remain closed.

• The closure is due to storm damage and supports efforts by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to comprehensively sample the area and potentially conduct additional remediation.
• The adjacent beach is open, but visitors cannot use this parking lot or walkover to reach it.

Check current Buxton Beach Access information before visiting.

The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is closed for climbing and will not open for climbs in 2026 because of restoration efforts.

• Outdoor areas near the lighthouse are open 24/7.
• Visitors can use the park’s virtual lighthouse experiences instead.

Check current lighthouse climb information before planning a visit.