Avon and The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
I made the trip from Upstate South Carolina to the Outer Banks of North Carolina in 2 days. I could have driven it in a single day, but I have learned that driving Lucy takes a lot more concentration than driving a car. I try to limit my driving to 5 hours a day, and I try to break up the drive with a stop at Planet Fitness for a workout.
My first campground was in Avon, North Carolina. In order to get there, I had to make the drive on a two lane road through the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. This road is absolutely stunning with tall dunes on either side of road and beautiful bridges with breathtaking views of the water. I wasn’t confident enough in my driving skills on this road to get any pictures, but take my word for it, Wow!
I made a reservation at Avon By The Sea RV Park. This park was small but beautiful. See my full review here. The RV Park is located right next to the Avon Fishing Pier. This historic wooden fishing pier has survived numerous hurricanes and storms and has required so many repairs to keep it working. You can see the extra piers and supports added for strength which gives the pier it’s signature look. I loved walking down the pier enjoying the views of the water and waves. During the weekend of my visit, there was a kids surf competition next to the pier. I had so much fun watching them surf. They were amazing!
A few days into my visit I took the drive down to the Cape Hatteras Light Station in Buxton, North Carolina. Unfortunately the Lighthouse was under construction, so I was not able to go inside. In order to save the Lighthouse from the effects of erosion, it is being moved to a safer location in the park. It’s kind of mind blowing that moving this structure is even possible.
In addition to the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, there were several short hikes in the park. I took the Buxton Woods Trail Loop which was a short 3/4 mile loop through a tree covered area bordered by marsh. It was a beautiful little walk.
After a week it was time to move north to the beautiful town of Rodanthe. I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Avon. The drive through the Cape Hatteras National Seashore was hands down one of my favorite drives. I can’t wait to come back.
