Outer Banks, North Carolina: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Are you ready to explore the Outer Banks of North Carolina? This 100-mile stretch of barrier islands is full of activities for everyone. Whether you love the beach, the outdoors, history, or just a great vacation, the Outer Banks has it all. From beautiful sandy shores to historic lighthouses, there's something for every traveler.

Get ready to find out the best things to do in this coastal gem. You'll make memories that will last forever.

Key Takeaways

• Explore the Outer Banks' 100 miles of wide-open shoreline and pristine beaches
• Discover the towering sand dunes at Jockey's Ridge State Park
• Take a thrilling hang gliding lesson with Kitty Hawk Kites
• Stroll along the iconic Outer Banks piers, including the famous Jennette's Pier
• Marvel at the historic Outer Banks lighthouses, including the tallest brick lighthouse in North America

Explore the Pristine Outer Banks Beaches

The Outer Banks of North Carolina are famous for their untouched beaches along the Atlantic Ocean. From Nags Head Beach to Ocracoke Island, there's a lot to do. Visitors can enjoy Obx beach activities and beach vacations in this beautiful coastal spot.

Nags Head Beach

Nags Head Beach stretches for 11 miles and has clean sand and gentle waves. It's great for family-friendly beaches. You can walk along Jennette's Pier or take a nature walk in Nags Head Woods Ecological Preserve.

Kill Devil Hills Beach

Kill Devil Hills Beach is known for its beautiful sunsets and fun vibe. Families can swim, sunbathe, and build sandcastles here. Or, they can go-karting at Full Throttle Speedway for some excitement.

Corolla Beach

Corolla Beach is where you can see the famous Corolla Wild Horses. You can take a 4x4 tour to see these amazing animals up close. Or, just enjoy the beautiful beach and its views.

Lifeguarded Beach on Ocracoke Island

The Lifeguarded Beach on Ocracoke Island was named America's Best Beach in 2022. It's known for its clean sand, clear water, and safety. Here, you can hike the Hammock Hill Nature Trail, visit the historic Ocracoke Lighthouse, and try the local seafood.

"The Outer Banks is a true coastal paradise, offering miles of pristine, family-friendly beaches that are perfect for relaxation, adventure, and making unforgettable memories."

Discover the Towering Sand Dunes at Jockey's Ridge State Park

Jockey's Ridge State Park in the Outer Banks of North Carolina is famous for its tallest natural sand dunes on the East Coast. These dunes can go up to 100 feet high. They are a natural wonder and a top spot for outdoor lovers and families.

Walk the 360-foot boardwalk through the dunes and see how the wind changes the sand. You can sandboard, fly a kite, or just enjoy the amazing views. Jockey's Ridge State Park has activities for everyone.

The park's visitor center and museum offer exhibits on the dunes' ecology and history. These dunes were once in danger of being destroyed in the 1970s. Thanks to local efforts, they became a state park in 1975. Now, they're a favorite spot for outdoor adventures and family activities.

At Jockey's Ridge State Park, you can hike, picnic, or just take in the beauty of the sand dunes. This unique place in North Carolina will leave a lasting impression. So, bring your sense of adventure and explore this natural wonder.

"Jockey's Ridge is a living, breathing, moving landscape that changes daily. It's a place of endless wonder and discovery."

Take a Thrilling Hang Gliding Lesson

Experience the thrill of hang gliding over the Outer Banks' breathtaking coastline. Jockey's Ridge State Park, with its tall natural sand dunes, is the ideal spot for this exciting activity. Since 1974, Kitty Hawk Kites has been teaching people how to fly free.

Learn with Kitty Hawk Kites

Kitty Hawk Kites offers hang gliding lessons for all levels, from beginners to those seeking high-altitude thrills. Expert instructors will teach you the basics, making sure you have a safe and exciting flight. With over 25 activities, Kitty Hawk Kites is a top choice for outdoor lovers in the Outer Banks.

Experience the Birthplace of Aviation

The Outer Banks is famous for its role in aviation history, where the Wright brothers made their first powered flight in 1903. Flying a hang glider here adds a special touch to your adventure. You'll feel the spirit of the pioneers who changed aviation forever.

"Hang gliding over the Outer Banks was a truly exhilarating experience. I felt like I was soaring like a bird, with the wind in my face and the stunning landscape below me."

Stroll Along the Iconic Outer Banks Piers

The Outer Banks of North Carolina are famous for their beautiful coasts. The piers that stretch into the Atlantic Ocean are iconic. They are perfect for anglers, nature lovers, or anyone who loves the ocean.

Jennette's Pier

Jennette's Pier is in the lovely town of Nags Head. It stretches 1,000 feet into the ocean. It's a place where you can learn, relax, and enjoy the coast.

There are educational exhibits, a small aquarium, and many activities. Jennette's Pier is a key spot for exploring and relaxing by the coast.

Outer Banks Fishing Pier

The Outer Banks Fishing Pier is another famous spot in Nags Head. It's great for fishing, walking, and eating at Fish Heads Bar & Grille. The views and atmosphere are amazing.

These piers are where locals and visitors meet. They offer great views and activities by the coast. Whether you're fishing, walking, or just enjoying the view, these piers make your visit unforgettable.

Outer Banks, North Carolina: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

The Outer Banks of North Carolina is a top vacation spot with lots to do. It offers everything from beautiful beaches to exciting water sports. There's something fun for everyone.

History buffs will love the Obx historical sites, like the Wright Brothers National Memorial. This is where the first powered flight happened in 1903. For those who love the outdoors, there's hang gliding at Jockey's Ridge State Park and exploring the Cape Hatteras National Seashore.

Families will find many attractions, from famous piers to wild horses in Corolla. As night falls, the Outer Banks buzzes with life. You'll find great places to eat and shop.

Looking for a chill beach vacation or an exciting adventure? The Outer Banks of North Carolina has it all. It promises unforgettable memories.

The Outer Banks of North Carolina offers a wide range of activities. Whether you're into beach activities, water sports, history, outdoor adventures, family fun, or nightlife, you'll find it here. It's a place that promises great experiences and memories to last a lifetime.

Marvel at the Historic Outer Banks Lighthouses

The Outer Banks of North Carolina is known for its rich maritime history. Its iconic lighthouses are a key part of this history. These beacons have guided ships safely for over two centuries. They still amaze visitors with their unique looks and wide views.

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is a highlight of the Outer Banks. It stands 208 feet tall, the tallest brick lighthouse in North America. Its black and white spiral pattern is easily recognizable. Climbing the 248 steps to the top gives adventurers amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean and the coast.

Bodie Island Lighthouse

Close to the Wright Brothers National Memorial is the Bodie Island Lighthouse. Built in 1872, this 156-foot lighthouse has a unique design. Visitors must climb 214 steps to see stunning coastal views from the top.

"The Outer Banks lighthouses are not just functional structures, but living monuments to the region's rich maritime history and the resilience of the people who have called this coast home for generations."

These historic lighthouses still draw in visitors with their beauty and important role in the Outer Banks' history. Whether you climb to the top or just look at them, these structures are a must-see in this remarkable area.

Bask in the Beauty of Cape Hatteras National Seashore

The Cape Hatteras National Seashore is a hidden treasure along the Outer Banks of North Carolina. It's a 72-mile national park that lets visitors enjoy the beauty of beach vacations and outdoor activities. It's perfect for those who love the coast and the great outdoors.

The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is a famous spot here. It's the tallest lighthouse in the U.S. Built with over 1,250,000 bricks, it guides ships and wows visitors. Nearby, the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum tells stories of shipwrecks off Hatteras Island.

There's more to do than just see the lighthouse. You can kayak in the Pamlico Sound, fish on the beach, or surf and kiteboard in the waves. The Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge is great for birdwatching, with over 400 bird species.

Looking for a calm beach vacation or an exciting adventure? The Cape Hatteras National Seashore has it all. With great weather for 10 months a year, it's perfect for outdoor activities and beach vacations.

"The Cape Hatteras National Seashore is a true gem of the Outer Banks, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure." - John Doe, Avid Outdoor Enthusiast

Embark on Watersports Adventures

The Outer Banks (OBX) is a top spot for water sports lovers. It offers exciting activities to enjoy the clear coastal waters. Whether you're experienced or new to water sports, the OBX has something fun for you.

Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Experience the calm beauty of the Outer Banks on a stand-up paddleboard. Glide on the Pamlico and Currituck Sounds. This Obx water sports lets you see the area's beauty and work out at the same time.

Surfing

The OBX is famous for its top-notch surfing. Nags Head and Kitty Hawk have some of the best surf spots on the East Coast. Whether you're an expert or just starting, you'll find great waves to ride.

Kayaking

See the Outer Banks' peaceful kayaking spots and wildlife up close. Paddle through quiet sounds, inlets, and estuaries. Enjoy the stunning nature around you.

There are rental shops and tour guides all over the OBX for all skill levels. They provide the gear and advice for a safe and fun outdoor activities time. Start your Outer Banks stand-up paddleboarding, surfing, or kayaking adventure and make memories that last.

Witness the Majestic Wild Horses of Corolla

The Outer Banks are home to a stunning herd of wild Spanish mustangs. These horses have lived in the area for centuries. They are a key part of the local culture.

The Corolla Wild Horse Fund was set up in 1989 to protect these horses. Today, there are about 100 horses in Corolla and another 100 on Shackleford Banks. These numbers are closely watched to keep the horses safe for the future.

Visitors can join guided tours to see the wild horses up close. These tours teach about their history and how we're working to save them. It's a special chance to see these beautiful animals in their natural setting.

By supporting responsible tourism and conservation, we help protect the wild horses. Places like the Corolla Wild Horse Fund and the Foundation for Shackleford Horses work hard to keep these horses safe. Your visit can help make a difference, letting you see the Corolla wild horses in their beautiful home.

"The Bankers, wild horses in and around the Outer Banks of Virginia and North Carolina, have been present for half a millennium, and at their peak, they numbered in the thousands well beyond the mid-20th century. Today, their populations have dwindled, but with the dedicated efforts of conservation groups, their legacy lives on."

Immerse Yourself in Outer Banks History and Culture

The Outer Banks of North Carolina is full of history and cultural spots. It lets visitors see the past in a unique way. From the famous Wright Brothers National Memorial to the interesting Roanoke Island Festival Park and the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum, there's much to explore.

Wright Brothers National Memorial

In Kill Devil Hills, the Wright Brothers National Memorial honors the first powered flight on December 17, 1903. You can see the Wright Brothers Monument, climb the 60-foot hill where they tested their planes, and learn about their big achievement. This changed aviation forever.

Roanoke Island Festival Park

At Roanoke Island, the Roanoke Island Festival Park tells the story of the first English colony in the New World. You can check out interactive exhibits, see live reenactments, and visit the Elizabeth II. This is a replica of a 16th-century sailing ship.

Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum

The Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum in Hatteras focuses on the region's maritime history. It shows the many shipwrecks off the Outer Banks' coast. You can see exhibits on the seafaring past and learn about those who rescued people at sea.

These places give visitors a deep look at the Outer Banks' important role in American history. From aviation to the early exploration of the New World. By experiencing these attractions, travelers connect with the region's past and respect its lasting legacy.

Conclusion

The Outer Banks of North Carolina is a top vacation spot with lots to do and see. You'll find beautiful beaches, tall sand dunes, historic lighthouses, and exciting water sports. There's an activity for everyone.

History and culture lovers can check out the Wright Brothers National Memorial, Roanoke Island Festival Park, and the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum. These places let you dive into the area's deep past.

If you want a chill beach vacation or an action-packed adventure, the Outer Banks has it all. You can try hang gliding or drive on the beach in a 4x4. There are also many events and festivals to enjoy.

So, get your bags ready and start exploring the Outer Banks. Its stunning nature, rich history, and friendly people will touch your heart and mind deeply.