The Outer Banks is full of natural beauty, historic attractions, and limitless opportunities for recreation.
With wildlife refuges like Kitty Hawk Woods, maritime forests, and the largest living sand dunes on the East Coast, the Northern Beaches area is particularly magical. Keep reading for the best things to do to maximize your time in this amazing part of the world!
Wright Brothers National Memorial
One of the OBX’s three National Parks, this spot is part historical monument, part museum, and part park. Dedicated to the country’s first successful flight, it boasts an incredible 60-foot granite monument and a small number of museums and exhibits dedicated to flight and the area’s history. It also offers several areas and paths to explore, like the 2500-foot Wright Brothers Multi-Use Path, ideal for walking, jogging, and biking.
Jockey’s Ridge State Park
As the home to the tallest living sand dune system on the Atlantic coast, this 426-acre park is a wondrous sight. It also offers a slew of ways to experience the Great Outdoors, like hang gliding, hiking, kiteboarding, windsurfing, and swimming. And because of its elevation and clean air, it’s one of the best spots on the Outer Banks for sunset — so great, there’s even a Sunset Festival. Another unforgettable way to see the day end? Charter an Outer Banks sunset cruise.
Kitty Hawk Woods Coastal Reserve
One of the area’s largest remaining maritime forests, this 1,824-acre nature preserve offers a glimpse into a striking ecosystem rich in plant and animal life, including several globally rare plant communities. There are also rich opportunities for birding here. Its network of hiking trails is ideal for cycling and hiking, while the sound’s calm waters welcome boating and paddleboarding.
Fishing
Cast a line from any of the scenic fishing piers including Kitty Hawk, Avalon, Nags Head, and Jennette’s or from the shore throughout the Northern Beaches.
Dolphin Tours
For a truly magical experience, book a dolphin tour to see these swimming mammals frolicking and living their best lives. In addition to watching these beautiful creatures, you’ll learn about their lives and habitat.
Watersports
The Northern Beaches of the Outer Banks offer a pristine sanctuary for water sports enthusiasts, where the connection to nature is immediate and profound. With miles of golden coastline and the Atlantic Ocean as your playground, you can enjoy this unspoiled natural beauty by kayak, kiteboard, surf, or paddleboard!
