Kinnakeet: Coast and Maritime History

For a trip to Kinnakeet, the coastal landscape and maritime history provide a clear framework. The town’s history connects the names Kinnakeet and Avon: Avon was formerly known as Kinnakeet; in 1883, the name was changed to Avon. When planning, different aspects come to the fore—the Atlantic coast, Pamlico Sound, the fishing pier, and the area’s former lifesaving service.

Coast Between the Atlantic and the Sound

Avon is located within Cape Hatteras National Seashore, a protected stretch of barrier islands. More than 70 miles of Atlantic coastline within the protected area can be accessed via access roads, boardwalks, and parking lots. Individual access points may be closed, so check the conditions at the relevant access point before your visit.

At Little Kinnakeet Sound Access, you’ll find a different waterscape: Pamlico Sound is shallow, relatively warm, calm, brackish, and rich in wildlife. Sound Access Ramp 52 in Avon provides access to the sound for kayaking, kiteboarding, stand-up paddling, and windsurfing. The range of activities spans everything from kayaking to wind-dependent water sports. As access ramps may be closed, check current access conditions in advance.

Pier and Fishing Tradition

Avon Fishing Pier opened in 1963 and was the first pier built on Hatteras Island. It attracts anglers hoping to catch, among other things, seasonally appearing red drum. Two distinct aspects come together here: the pier’s opening is a fixed point in the town’s history, while the red drum are seasonal visitors. Those interested in fishing will find a tangible connection to the coast and its wildlife here.

Lifesaving Service and Local History

Little Kinnakeet is located near Avon. Its Life-Saving Station was one of the first seven lifesaving stations built on the Outer Banks. Built in 1874, the station is one of only three surviving lifesaving stations in the United States. The year it was built and its documented significance offer two different points of reference: 1874 places the station in time, while the number of surviving stations describes its historical distinction.

Boatbuilding was also part of Avon’s maritime past: it was the town’s most important industry. Together with the pier and the lifesaving station, this tells the story of the importance of water to the town’s history, without conflating the individual places and their histories.

Summer Market and Local Cuisine

Local dining options include casual beach fare and seafood restaurants. The Avon Farmers Market is a weekly summer tradition held every Tuesday. As it is seasonal, check current dates and opening hours before your visit. This lets you include the seasonal market tradition and local cuisine as distinct aspects of your travel plans.

Discover more destinations: Nags Head, Hatteras, Duck, Manteo, Kitty Hawk, Rodanthe, Wanchese, Kill Devil Hills.

For the broader travel overview: Dare.