Welcome to The Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum in Hatteras

Named in tribute to the countless shipwrecks, the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum rests off the coast of North Carolina and is devoted to preserving and showcasing the state's rich coastal and shipwreck heritage. Come take a look!

DID YOU KNOW that there are more than 2,000 shipwrecks off the North Carolina Outer Banks, dubbed the Graveyard of the Atlantic?

Discover the Untamed Beauty of North Carolina’s Outer Banks!


Hatteras Island Shipwrecks

The Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum on Hatteras Island is a fascinating place, steeped in maritime history. It's located near one of the most dangerous sections of the Atlantic Ocean, where the warm Gulf Stream meets the cold Labrador Current. This area has witnessed hundreds of shipwrecks over the centuries, earning its ominous name. The museum itself showcases artifacts from these shipwrecks, including the infamous pirate Blackbeard's flagship, the Queen Anne's Revenge, and the USS Monitor, a Civil War ironclad. It's a treasure trove for anyone interested in maritime history, shipwrecks, and the tales of survival and loss at sea. A visit there is like stepping back in time, offering a glimpse into the perilous waters that have shaped the Outer Banks' history. 

Hatteras Island Shipwrecks

Explore Shipwreacks of the Atlantic

Visit Hatteras Island, NC


Graveyard of the Atlantic | Hatteras Island NC | Historic Albemarle Highway

Plan Your Visit

Embark on a day trip to the southern tip of Hatteras Island, where you’ll find a scenic drive alongside the Hatteras Ferry docks. This journey takes you through impressive dunes, across bridges, passing the historic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse and amidst the stunning natural beauty that envelops the island, leading you to The Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum. Be sure to visit the website for information on dates and times for excursions to the shipwrecks that have influenced history.

Explore Exhibits & Artifacts

Explore our newly enhanced interactive exhibits and immerse yourself in the intriguing history of Atlantic shipwrecks, the area's role in World War II, piracy, US Life-Saving Service Stations, and The Burning of Fort Johnston.


We warmly invite both school and travel groups to join us.


We're eager to welcome you and share these fascinating stories.

Depths of Discovery Hatteras | Historic Albemarle Highway

Upcoming Events

The Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum is a captivating highlight on Hatteras Island, dedicated to preserving and presenting the rich maritime history of the Outer Banks.


It's a place where history comes alive, telling the tales of bravery, tragedy, and survival against the backdrop of the treacherous seas known as the Graveyard of the Atlantic.

Maritime Museum committed to the preservation, promotion, and exhibition of maritime history.

Outer Banks, NC


GRAVEYARD OF THE ATLANTIC MUSEUM

59200 Museum Dr, Hatteras, NC, United States, North Carolina

Phone: 252-986-0720
Monday - Friday 10 AM - 4 PM

Admission: Free

Saturday & Sunday  Closed

State Holidays: Closed 

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