Avon is a small town on Hatteras Island with the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Pamlico Sound on the other. In 2020, Avon had 832 permanent residents with the area of the town sitting at less than 3 square miles. The average annual high temperature for the year is around 70 degrees Fahrenheit with an average water temperature of 64 degrees, moving up to 80 degrees during the summer months. What was once an out-of-the-way town that people drove through on their way to Cape Hatteras is now a quiet but active waterside town that boasts wonderful waves, unbeatable ocean breezes, and temperate winter months, meaning that there's never a bad time of year to visit. And like the rest of Hatteras Island, if you're looking for somewhere to stay that gives you the chance to explore lots of watersport activities and events throughout the year, Avon is definitely the place to be.
History of Avon
Avon was originally known as "Kinnakeet," though it was later rennamed Avon in 1883 by the USPS. It was also once home to the Little Kinnakeet Life Saving Station, which closed in 1954. When driving through Avon, you'll see that there is a lot of flat sandy land with few trees. This is, in part, because, during the 1800s, the area was known for its lumber and many of the live oaks and cedars that called the area home were cut down for shipbuilding materials. Since then, the area has become a hotspot for its seafood export. Much of Avon is still referred to as Kinnakeet Banks and Avon is one of the more popular Outer Banks vacation spots on Hatteras Island, boasting many vacation rentals as well as exciting businesses such as resaurants, stores, and more.
Things to do in Avon
Avon is definitely the center of the hustle and bustle of Hatteras Island. Enjoy spectacular fishing, quiet and remote beaches on the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, and plenty of exciting watersports in the waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the Pamlico Sound. Check out some of the exciting things to do in Avon below!
Attractions
Avon Pier
41001 NC Hwy 12, Avon, NC 27915
Come make memories at the Avon Fishing Pier where you head out onto the water and get your own unforgettable catch in this world-famous fishing spot. If you're looking for Red Drum, this is definitely the place to be. And since the pier has a blanket license, all you need to do is grab your line and get the kiddos out onto the water for a day of making memories.
Koru Beach Klub
41001 NC Hwy 12, Avon, NC 27915
And while you're here, be sure to stop by the Koru Beach Klub for swimming, awesome summer events, and an annual concert series that is sure to knock your socks off. Grab a drink at the tiki bar, head out onto the dance floor, and just let loose and have some fun during your vacation!
Shopping
Avon Shopping Center
41934 NC Hwy 12, Avon, NC 27915
If you're looking for groceries, this is the only place you'll find a chain grocery store on this part of the island with the Food Lion! Additionally, explore all sorts of stores offering beach supplies, tackle, souvenirs, and more.
Fisherman's Daughter
39455 NC Hwy 12, Avon, NC 27915
A great selection of souvenirs, jewelry, and women's fashion.
Kinnakeet Clay Studio & Showroom
40463 N. End Road, Avon, NC 27915
Usually open during the summer months, come check out this fantastic showroom in Historic Kinnakeet Village. Pick up some gorgeous handmade poettry with a coastal flair. And the online store is open year-round, meaning that you can get gifts here for everyone in your life!
Studio 12
41008 NC Hwy 12, Avon, NC 27915
If you're looking for something fun to do with the whole family during your vacation, be sure to check out Studio 12. Throw or paint your own pottery, build mosaic boards, or enjoy some time making art. Either way, you'll have an unforgettable experience and be able to take back a handmade piece of your vacation with you back home.
Restaurants
Bros
41934-3 NC Hwy 12, Avon, NC
Classic American pub fare with burgers, hoagies, sammies, and salads.
Burger Burger
40618 NC Hwy 12, Avon, NC
Burgers, chicken, salads, wraps, seafood, and sandwiches.
Chinatown
41934 NC Hwy 12, Avon, NC
A variety of Chinese and Chinese-inspired meals.
Dairy Queen - Avon
39774 NC Hwy 12, Avon, NC
Stop by for ice cream and quick diner treats.
Dirty Dick's Crabhouse
41934 NC Hwy 12, Avon, NC
Seafood with a Lousiana flare! Enjoy a variety of seafood, steak, and other options.
The Froggy Dog Restaurant & Pub
40050 Hwy 12, Avon, NC
Serving lunch and dinner daily with local seafood and American pub fare.
Gidget's Pizza & Pasta
41934 NC Hwy 12, Avon, NC
Handcrafted pizza, specialty pasta, salad, sandwiches, and a wine bar.
Isla Coffee Shop
39774 NC Hwy 12, Avon, NC
Coffe shop, baked goods, and plant-based dining options.
Ketch 55 Seafood Grill
40396 NC Hwy 12, Avon, NC
Cocktails, seafood, and steak! Eat in or head out on the deck.
La Fogata - Avon
41934 NC Hwy 12, Avon, NC
Local staple for Mexican cuisine.
Mad Crabber
40606 NC Hwy 12, Avon, NC
Casual dining with fresh, local seafood, steaks, salads, sandwiches, and more!
Muffins & Scones
40126 NC Hwy 12, Avon, NC
Bakery offering coffee, bagels, and daily bakery favorites.
Nino's Pizza Italian Restaurant
41092 NC Hwy 12, Avon, NC
Fantastic pizza, salads, subs, and more.
Oceana's Bistro
40774 NC Hwy 12, Avon, NC
Casual dining offering American cuisine plus wine and beer.
Pangea Tavern
41001 NC Hwy 12, Avon, NC
Casual American/pub fare with local seafood and beers on tap.
Subway - Avon
40548 NC Hwy 12, Avon, NC
Sandwiches, salads, and wraps.
Sunrise Seafood Market
40658 NC Hwy 12, Avon, NC
Fresh seafood and house-made sides.
Uglie Mugs Coffe Shop
40534 NC Hwy 12, Avon, NC
Daily drink specials and bakery treats.
Watersports
Kitty Hawk Kites
39432 N.C. Highway 12, Island Shops, Avon 27915
Whether you're looking to go surfing, kiteboarding, or want to pick up an awesome souvenir for your loved ones back home, Kitty Hawk Kites is the place for everything you need. Check out their lessons, as well, and maybe pickup a new hobby while you're in town!
Frank and Fran's Fisherman's Friend
40210 NC Hwy 12, Avon, NC 27915
Stop by this amazing, friendly tackle shop that offers bait and tackle, fishing supplies, drinks, and a humidor.
Hatteras Island Boardsports
41056 NC Hwy 12, Avon, NC 27915
Come choose from a wide selection of swimwear, apparel, and accessories.
Avon Resources
Avon Beach Access: Beach Access Ramp 38 provides year-round off-road vehicle and pedestrian access to the beaches south of the village of Avon, North Carolina, as well as seasonal off-road vehicle access to beaches in front of the village of Avon.
*Please note that while we do our best to keep all information up to date, hours and availability are subject to change.
