Hatteras Island Inn Buxton

Hatteras Island Inn Buxton, formerly a Comfort Inn, was partially renovated in 2016. The building's exterior was given a fresh coat of paint, and the lobby's reception desk was stained to match new wood veneer floors. The sitting area looks like a Colonial home's family room, with a pair of traditional, high-backed chairs on an area rug facing a large hutch that holds a TV. But the space isn't as much of a draw as the property's three-story observation tower, which affords unobstructed ocean views. 

The hotel caters to travelers on a budget, and is especially popular with fishermen. The immediate area isn't that appealing, but light from the iconic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse can be seen at night. 

The Hatteras Island Inn Buxton is on the beach side of Highway 12, about a three-minute walk from the oceanfront. The location is generally convenient for tourists visiting the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. There's a seafood restaurant and a gas station nearby, along with an ice cream shop and a few other local restaurants within walking distance. A small grocery store and a bait and tackle shop are right across the road. The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is a three-minute drive. Hiking trails at Buxton Woods Coastal Reserve are 15 minutes away by car. 

Decor in Hatteras Island Inn Buxton's guest rooms is on the bland side, typical of other budget motels. There's blue carpet and simple wood furniture, but maritime artwork on the walls add a sense of place. In-room amenities include flat-screen TVs, coffeemakers, mini-fridges, microwaves, tables and chairs, and free Wi-Fi. Bathrooms are ultra-basic, with shower/tub combos. 

Some units have sofa beds, as does the one suite, which also features a full kitchen, a living room, and two bathrooms. Housekeeping could improve -- we found a sock that was left under the air conditioner -- and the phone didn't work.

All rooms overlook a parking lot, and about half are street-facing, and have views of the lighthouse. The other half look out to the pool -- and some second-floor units have partial ocean views. 

Amenities are sparse at Hatteras Island Inn Buxton, but the property has a few features that are standouts. LED lights brighten the inside of the seasonal outdoor pool, which is surrounded by a sundeck and a handful of loungers. There's also a covered section with a few white plastic tables and chairs. A three-story observation tower allows guests to take in panoramic views of the landscape and ocean, from inside or on its wrap-around platform. 

No breakfast is a drawback, but freebies include lobby refreshments (coffee, tea, and juice from automated machines) available 24/7, Wi-Fi throughout, and parking, with spaces for boats and RVs. There's also a coin-operated washing machine and dryer for guests to use, and a vending machine.