Cape Hatteras (NC) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Cape Hatteras.
Climate overview of Cape Hatteras
Temperatures in Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, United States of America, vary greatly throughout the year. August is the hottest month at 30°C (86°F), while February is the coldest at 12°C (54°F).
The city has a wet climate, receiving around 1542 mm (61 in) of rainfall per year. Despite the high annual total, it has warm summers and cold winters. September is the wettest month. July is the sunniest month, averaging 9.5 hours of sunshine per day.
Cape Hatteras Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Cape Hatteras - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Cape Hatteras
The climate in Cape Hatteras is known for significant temperature differences throughout the year, making the weather dynamic. On average, daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 30°C (86°F) in August to a chilly 12°C (54°F) in February.
Nighttime temperatures range from 24°C (75°F) in August to 4°C (39°F) in February.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Cape Hatteras
Cape Hatteras has a notably wet climate with abundant precipitation, recording 1542 mm (61 in) of rainfall per year. The seasons in Cape Hatteras bring significant changes in precipitation. The wettest month, September, receives heavy rainfall, with an average of 224 mm (8.8 in) of precipitation. This rainfall is distributed across 12 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month, May, experiences much less rainfall, totaling 87 mm (3.4 in) over 10 rainy days. These distinct seasonal differences provide diverse experiences throughout the year. For more details, please visit our Cape Hatteras Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in Cape Hatteras
In Cape Hatteras, summer days are longer and more sunny, with daily sunshine hours peaking at 9.5 hours in July. As the darker season arrives, the brightness of the sun becomes less. December sees a soft sun for only 4.7 hours per average day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Water Temperature in Cape Hatteras
The mean water temperature over the year ranges from 16°C (61°F) in January to 28°C (82°F) in August.
Water temperature over the year
Humidity in Cape Hatteras by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Cape Hatteras.
The city experiences its highest humidity in January, reaching 75%. In March, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 70%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Wind Speed in Cape Hatteras
The mean wind speed over the year ranges from 4 m/s (8 knots) in August to 6 m/s (12 knots) in January, February, March and April. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Best Time to Visit Cape Hatteras
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: May and June
- Warmest weather: July and August
- Most sunshine: May, June and July
- Best for swimming: May, June, July, August, September, October and November.
- Seasonal pattern: Warm summers and cold winters
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Cape Hatteras
What is the best time to visit Cape Hatteras?
May and June typically offer the most optimal weather in Cape Hatteras. In contrast, January and February tend to have less optimal conditions. Cape Hatteras has warm summers and cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Cape Hatteras?
Daytime highs range from 12°C (54°F) in February to 30°C (86°F) in August. Nighttime lows range from 4°C (39°F) to 24°C (75°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Cape Hatteras get?
Annual rainfall is around 1542 mm (61 in). September is the wettest month with 224 mm (8.8 in), while May is the driest with 87 mm (3.4 in).
How sunny is Cape Hatteras?
Cape Hatteras receives around 2,659 hours of sunshine per year. July is the sunniest month with 285 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 141 hours. Overall, Cape Hatteras enjoys abundant sunshine.
Cape Hatteras 3-Day Forecast
Cape Hatteras on the map
Cape Hatteras is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
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