The History of Avon, NC

Located on the beautiful Outer Banks of North Carolina, Avon illustrates better than any other place the lure of living between water and woods. It is often called the hub of Hatteras Island, but this charming little town gives its guests an ideal blend of modern comforts and old-world charm. So read on and find out about Avon’s history and all it has to offer for your next Outer Banks excursion.

A Look at the Fascinating History of Avon

The original name of Avon was Kinnakeet, and even though this day it is still heard to mean the old part of the town. The first recorded post office was in 1873 under that name. Some ten years later in 1883, the postal service officially named it Avon.

In the middle of the 19th century, Kinnakeet had over 300 inhabitants in total, all living on its western side. By the end of the century, this number was about 500. Big Kinnakeet Station in the south and Little Kinnakeet Station to the north were two life-saving stations on its outer edge, Kinnakeet Banks.

The early Kinnakeeters were self-reliant. From the early 1800's, they cut large numbers of live oak and cedar trees, either to build boats themselves or to export as wood to build boats or houses elsewhere in America. Eventually this denuded much of the island. After the Civil War, Kinnakeet became famous for locally-built oystering fleet and boats up to small schooners.

Avon Today - The Busiest Heart of Hatteras Island

Avon is the bustling commercial center of Hatteras Island today. Though it's the busiest town on the island, when you read about it like this you can see for yourself that it still has a quiet and small-town character which most visitors find beautiful.

Shopping in Avon

It is indeed a paradise for those who like to shop. This town has the only chain grocery store on the island called ‘Food Lion’, while other popular local grocery stores carrying gourmet offerings are also nearby. You wouldn't seem to be short of anything here at Avon if you are continuing to buy in and around the village.

Things to Do in Avon

  • Surfing and Water Sports

    In Avon, people's lives seem to revolve around surfing. Whether it's for regular surfboarding, kitesurfing, windsurfing, or body surfing, even when surfing is taken out of the equation, there are many different forms of water sports. At the Haulover or Canadian Hole, south of town, where the sound runs, there is a magnificent little spot frequented by kite boarders and windsurfers alike

  • Fishing

    There are so many things for a fisherman to enjoy in Avon. Nearly all forms of deep sea sport fishing are available. If you enjoy any of pier fishing at Avon pier, bottom fishing on the off-shore banks or in the sound itself or casting from the beach to sea, this is the place to be

  • Biking

    Biking is enjoyable In Avon with a local bicycle outfit here to rent or repair, and a fine path through town to ride. And it is a delightful way to take in the coastal views at a leisurely pace

  • Art Classes and Workshops

    Many galleries offer classes and workshops, making them great places for people to learn new skills or cultivate their artistic inclinations further

Culinary Delights

Avon's culinary scene is as diverse as the area's recreational opportunities. From casual waterfront eateries to fine dining establishments, there’s something for every palate. As is to be expected in a coastal town, seafood is a major part of dining in Avon. Houses that specialize in crabs offer tantalizingly crab dishes while other eateries serve fresh catch of the day in myriad ways.

For those who want to eat something different, you'll find Mexican, Italian, and Chinese restaurants sprinkled around town. You can also find Pizza Parlors, Burger Joints, Delis and Coffee Houses for those times when you might just want a quick stop. There are restaurants with soundside seating for a truly unforgettable dining experience. You can savor your dinner while enjoying the intense colors of sunset.

Accommodation Alternatives

The major type of lodging in Avon is vacation rentals, but there are also other choices. You can choose from cozy oceanfront cottages near the beach to luxurious oceanfront mansions. There are a few hotel setups in addition as well, for people who want that kind of thing when they vacation. It is highly recommended that you make advance reservations for Avon, which is a popular place and especially so throughout the peak season.

Drive from Avon to Other Places

  • Hatteras Village, 30 mins

  • Rodanthe, 25 mins

  • Oregon Inlet, 40 mins

  • Nags Head, 55 mins

  • Duck, 1hr 25 mins

  • Corolla, 1hr 45 mins

Conclusion

Whether you're interested in history or outdoor shopping, dining and nightlife, Avon has something to offer everyone. An excellent hub for family outings, honey moon trips, backpackers or traveling singles - its strategic location means there are activities aplenty here. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Avon right away, and learn from the inside out why it's called the heart of Hatteras Island.