Top Ten Stunning Spots Found in the Outer Banks Region
Tired of hearing the Outer Banks referred to like a single entity? Well, this strip of barrier islands along North Carolina's coast, encompassing 4 counties and over a dozen charming towns, is much more diverse than you might imagine. From Duck to Currituck, Kitty Hawk to Nags Head, there's an endless array of picturesque spots that are worth exploring. Here's a rundown of the most scenic, enchanting, and all-around stunning places you need to see.
1. Duck Boardwalk, Duck
Duck itself may be as quaint as can be, but its waterfront boardwalk is the cream of the crop when it comes to vacation postcards. Sandwiched between an assortment of inviting restaurants and boutiques on one side and peaceful boat docks on the other, this time-worn wooden boardwalk offers an idyllic view of the deep blue Currituck Sound. With nautical-themed shops sporting cedar-shake siding, it's hard to believe this dreamy scene isn't a fantasy.
2. Jockey's Ridge State Park, Nags Head
You may expect sand dunes at the beach, but the ones you'll find at Jockey's Ridge State Park in Nags Head are a whole different ballgame. Imagine this natural wonder as being more like the towering sand dunes of New Mexico's White Sands National Park, compared to the gently rolling hills of other east coast beaches. As the tallest living sand dune system on the Atlantic Coast, the state park serves as a hotspot for hang gliding, kite flying, and sunset watching.
3. Cottage Row Historic District, Nags Head
There's something incredibly romantic about an oceanfront shack that's weathered the test of time. In Nags Head, you can find just that in the Cottage Row Historic District. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, these late 19th and early 20th-century cottages were mostly passed down through the generations and are still owned by their original families.
4. Sanderling Resort, Duck
Although the Outer Banks tends to lean towards "salt of the earth" rather than "glitz and glam," there's a taste of the high life to be found at Sanderling Resort in Duck. Located between the Atlantic Ocean and Currituck Sound, this long-adored beachfront stay boasts elegantly appointed rooms and lovely grounds with umbrella-lined pools, vegetation-covered dunes, and stretches of sandy beach.
5. Pine Island Audubon & Sanctuary Center, Corolla
The Outer Banks is synonymous with wild, natural beauty, and nowhere embodies that quality better than the Pine Island Audubon & Sanctuary Center in Corolla. The preserve encompasses 2,600 acres of marsh, upland maritime forest, and sandy beaches on the northeastern portion of the barrier islands. It's an excellent spot for birdwatching and wildlife spotting, including kayak tours through the intricate marsh maze connecting numerous tiny islands.
6. Currituck Beach Lighthouse, Corolla
Steeped in history, this Currituck Beach Lighthouse dates back to 1875 and played a crucial role in keeping mariners safe in the treacherous seas. Today, this red-brick tower presides over Historic Corolla Village as the last brick-and-mortar lighthouse in North Carolina. Climb its spiral staircase for a breathtaking view of the Currituck Sound and Atlantic Ocean, or enjoy the view from below as you marvel at the wonder of this imposing structure.
7. Wild Corolla Horses, Corolla
One of the most iconic images associated with the Outer Banks, the famous wild horses of Corolla have garnered a global following. If you're eager to catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures galloping through the salty spray, head to Corolla and embark on a sandy safari with tour companies like Wild Horse Adventure Tours or Bob's Wild Horse Tours.
8. Edgecamp Pamlico Station, Salvo
A runaway success since its opening in 2024, this luxury property in Hatteras Island features 14 suites designed by Jonathan Adler and a dedicated concierge service offering everything from massages to a private chef and boat and jet-ski rentals. With classically cool design and southern charm, Edgecamp caters to groups, boasting waterfront villas.
9. Bodie Island Lighthouse, Cape Hatteras Island
Discover the striking Bodie Island Light Station in the remote and unspoiled Cape Hatteras National Seashore. As you approach this classic black-and-white striped beacon, take in the breathtaking surroundings of the marshy grasses, winding boardwalks, and rippling water. If you visit during the summertime, you can ascend the lighthouse for a stunning perspective of the endless sea of blue thanks to the Currituck Sound and Atlantic Ocean.
10. Jennette's Pier, Nags Head
This 1,000-foot long pier extending into the Atlantic Ocean has been a landmark for generations of Outer Banks vacationers since its construction in 1939. Despite enduring many iterations that succumbed to storms, wind, and waves, its current iteration stands tall and proud. Cast a line from the guardrail, or take a sunset stroll to witness the sun dipping below the horizon. It doesn't get more picturesque than this.
From the charming boardwalks and picturesque waterside towns to the breathtaking lighthouses and storied wild horses, the Outer Banks is a feast for the eyes. Whether you're looking for a sleepy beach town or a vibrant, bustling hub, the Outer Banks has it all. So pack your bags, and get ready to roll down the shore and experience these stunning gems for yourself.
- By planning a trip to the Outer Banks, located in North Carolina, you'll have the opportunity to travel to a diverse region that encompasses more than just the popular Outer Banks known to many.
- Southern Living magazine recommends a visit to Duck Boardwalk in Duck for a quaint and picturesque waterfront experience, complete with nautical-themed shops and charming restaurants.
- If you're looking for a unique travel experience, consider exploring Jockey's Ridge State Park in Nags Head, where you can witness the tallest living sand dune system on the Atlantic Coast and participate in thrilling activities like hang gliding and kite flying.
