Metal Detecting at Cape Hatteras National Seashore
Dare / Hyde County · Outer Banks · National seashore
Last verified:
The rules
Metal detectors are prohibited on all NPS-administered lands and waters within the seashore, including magnet fishing. Fill in any holes dug before leaving the beach. Covers beaches on Bodie, Hatteras, and Ocracoke islands; does NOT cover town beaches in Nags Head, Kill Devil Hills, Kitty Hawk, Duck, or Southern Shores.
Permit: N/A
📞 Call ahead: 252-473-2111 (confirm the current rule before you go)
This spot is off-limits — try one of the allowed North Carolina spots instead, then gear up below.
More spots nearby: Outer Banks (Corolla to Ocracoke) · See the full North Carolina metal detecting laws · federal rules · which detector to buy
Source: NPS 2026 Superintendent's Compendium (signed, revised 6/4/2026) and CAHA FAQ. Verify against the managing authority before detecting.