Buxton is home to some of the most famous landmarks associated with Hatteras Island. Here you'll find the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, Shelly Island, and those incomparable "apple uglies" from Orange Blossom Bakery. As of 2020, 1,181 people lived in Buxton year-round, making this one of the "larger" towns on Hatteras Island. Buxton is the highest point on the island and when you're done exploring the area surrounding the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse and taking plenty of Instagram-worthy pictures, Buxton is truly known as a surfer's paradise. Home of the Eastern Surfing Association's annual championships, Buxton's geography may be a nightmare for ships, but it's heaven for those looking for catch the perfect Outer Banks wave. And when you're not catching a wave, there's plenty of other fun and exciting things to do in Buxton like hiking, riding a horse on the beach, or even taking a guided tour of the island! Buxton is truly a treasure, situated far enough away from the northern Outer Banks to ensure privacy and quiet, but developed just enough so that you'll never feel isolated. Average annual temperatures and water temperatures in and around Buxton sit close to 70 degrees Fahrenheit, meaning that there really is no bad time of the year to make your way to Buxton!
History of Buxton, NC
Buxton was formally "created" in 1873 with the opening of the post office named "The Cape," though by 1882, the area had been renamed Buxton. For much of its existence, Buxton was a combination of wooded areas and sandy roads, before slowly becoming slightly more developed as the decades went on. Known as "The Graveyard of the Atlantic," Buxton was also a hotbed of ship activity and shipwrecks well into WWII, earning the coastline its deadly moniker. In 1942, the SS Lancing was sunk off the coast of Cape Hatteras by a German submarine. The wreckage was recently listed on the National Register of Historic Places, though you won't really be able to see it unless you're a trained diver with permissions. Still, it's exciting to be so close to such a fascinating bit of history while relaxing on the warm, sandy shores of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore with a book and a cool drink! In 1999, Buxton captured the national stage as the lighthouse was moved 2,900 feet in 23 days in hopes of protecting the lighthouse from the dangers of coastal erosion.
Things to Do in Buxton, NC
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
46379 Lighthouse Rd., Buxton, NC 27920
One of the most recognizable landmarks on the Outer Banks, the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse sits 210' above sea level and boasts 257 climbable steps throughout the year (closed in 2023 for repairs). But whether you get the chance to climb the lighthouse, or simply spend your time exploring the grounds surrounding it, there's no doubt that your visit to the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is the trip of a lifetime.
Buxton Woods Reserve
46375 Lighthouse Rd., Buxton, NC 27920
This area is a NC Dedicated Nature Preserve and is one of the largest remaining Maritime Evergreen Forests on the east coast. Visit the area for the chance to see lots of migratory wildlife and plantlife. Please note, there are no facilities or restrooms at Buxton Woods Reserve, but the Cape Hatteras National Seashore Visitors Center with these amenities is just a short drive away.
Cape Point
Buxton, NC 27920
Cape Point is not only a beautiful beach, undeveloped and open like the rest of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, but the mixing of currents off the shore makes this one of the best places for offshore fishing.
Shopping in Buxton, NC
Buxton Village Books
47918 NC Hwy 12, Buxton, NC 27920
Full-service bookstore located in a historic cottage with a beautiful location and amazing people. They've been selling books in this spot since 1984 and show no plans of slowing down.
Fox Watersports
47108 NC Hwy 12, Buxton, NC 27920
Locally-founded watersports company offering a wide selection of surfing, windsurfing, kite surfing, and paddleboard gear.
Restaurants in Buxton, NC
Orange Blossom Bakery
47206 NC Hwy 12, Buxton, NC 27920
*LOCAL RECOMMENDATION: You have not lived until you've had an "apple ugly" from Orange Blossom Bakery. Every other version you've tried is a copy of this original, Hatteras Island staple. Open from 6:30AM - 11:00AM daily, you need to get there EARLY to get this delicious breakfast treat because they sell out quick. But trust me: that early morning sunrise over the ocean with an apple ugly and a cup of warm coffee is more than worth it.
Sandbar & Grille
49252 NC Hwy 12, Buxton, NC 27920
Relaxed, inviting restaurant with classic seafood & American cuisine and arcade games to keep the whole family entertained during dinner!
Buxton Munch Company
47359 NC Hwy 12, Buxton, NC 27920
Eclectic eatery with burgers, sandwiches, and tacos for a fun, casual dining experience.
Cafe Pamlico
49684 NC Hwy 12, Buxton, NC 27920
Sophisticated high-end bar and restaurant with local seafood and outdoor dining.
Uncle Eddy's Frozen Custard
46878 NC Hwy 12, Buxton, NC 27920
Frozen treats, ice cream, and fun shop that also offers souviners and mini-golf!
Rusty's Surf and Turf
47355 NC Hwy 12, Buxton, NC 27920
Fun steakhouse and seafood restaurant.
Diamond Shoals Resaurant
46843 NC Hwy 12, Buxton, NC 27920
Casual seafood dining with salad bar and access to seafood market next door.
Pop's Raw Bar
48967 NC Hwy 12, Buxton, NC 27920
Roadside seafood shack offering delicious seafood eats and a full bar.
Angelo's Pizza
46903 NC Hwy 12, Buxton, NC 27920
Pizzeria and American pub food as well as pool tables and arcade games for the whole family.
Fattys Eatery
46618 NC Hwy 12, Buxton, NC 27920
Cozy, local breakfast and lunch diner-style fare.
Cockeyed Clam
47048 NC Hwy 12, Buxton, NC 27920
Casual island dining with indoor and outdoor dining to enjoy some delicious seafood.
Lighthouse Sports Bar
47170 NC Hwy 12, Buxton, NC 27920
Awesome local sports bar offering lunch specials, dinner, and late night dining and events.
Cool Wave
47095 Buxton Back Rd., Buxton, NC 27920
Ice cream, frozen yogurt, and milkshakes!
Giovanni's Pizza
47365 NC Hwy 12, Buxton, NC 27920
Delicious pizza, Italian fare, and burritos!
Crazy Johny's Bar-B-Que
47437 NC Hwy 12, Buxton, NC 27920
Great spot for BBQ, ice cream, and a good time! Check out their catering items, as well.
Buxton Resources
Old Lighthouse Beach Access: Located at the end of Old Lighthouse Road; Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Original Location
Beach Access Ramp 43: Located at the end of Lighthouse Road.
*Please note that while we do our best to keep all information up to date, hours and availability are subject to change.
