Hatteras Island & Avon Hatteras Island, part of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, is a small barrier island between the Atlantic Ocean and Pamlico Sound, off the eastern coast of North Carolina, rich in wildlife, history, mild temperatures, and beautiful scenery. The approximately 70-mile strip of land is the closest point to the Gulf Stream north of Florida, and is accessible by bridge on the northern end and ferry to the south. There are seven villages on the island: (from north to south) Rodanthe, Waves, Salvo, Avon, Buxton, Frisco and Hatteras. Avon, located 12 miles south of Salvo, is perhaps best known as the mecca of east coast windsurfing. Every Spring and Fall as frontal systems push out into the Atlantic, Hatteras turns on and delivers strong winds and warm waters, perfect for the multitude of windsurfers who visit here annually. Avon is also noted for some of the nicest beaches and best fishing on the Island. Other attractions include para-sailing, windsurfing lessons and rentals, many restaurants (some with live music at night), a movie theater with four cinemas, shops with local arts and crafts, Avon fishing pier, a bike trail that runs south to Hatteras Village, and a live grass miniature golf course.