8 Reasons Why We Love Nags Head

So Much to Do and See in One of the Nation’s Best Beach Towns!

Blog / OBX Guides
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Featuring wide beaches and a fun beach town atmosphere, it is no surprise that Nags Head is a popular place for a summer vacation. From its beautiful beaches to its rich history, Nags Head embodies the essence of the Outer Banks. We cannot recommend this extraordinary town enough for anyone looking to experience a quintessential OBX vacation. Check out what makes Nags Head an amazing place to visit.

Beach Bonfires Great Grub Historic Cottage Row Day Trips to Paradise Nags Head Woods Ecological Preserve Watersports Jennette's Pier Jockey’s Ridge State Park Book a Nags Head Home
beach bonfire

1. Beach Bonfires

Nags Head is one of the few places on the Outer Banks that allows beach pit fires (with a permit) all year long. For those who want to soak up as much of the beach as possible, a bonfire is a perfect way to keep the family fun going even after the sun sets. But before you build your fire, make sure to obtain the proper permit. Permits are issued between 5:30 pm and midnight daily based on current wind speed and fire danger conditions. Head to the Town of Nags Head’s website for more information on beach pit fires.

2. Great Grub

The northern end of Nags Head from Milepost 10 to 16 is also where many of our favorite restaurants on the Outer Banks can be found. Enjoy a romantic dinner on the sound or grab some freshly caught seafood to cook in your own kitchen! Check out our picks for Nags Head’s best eats:

fish heads nags head
Fish Heads Bar & Grill
nh3937-deck-9

3. Historic Cottage Row

Established in the 1830s, the town of Nags Head is understandably rich with history. It is even apparent as you drive down the beach road. This stretch, known as “Old Cottage Row,” has been on the National Register of Historic Places for over 40 years. The historic district is known for its cottages, built from shipwreck-salvaged wood, that began dotting the Outer Banks coastline in the mid-1800s, many before the Civil War!

While only a few of these original structures still exist, as most have undergone major renovations, their architectural influence still stands. Propped shutters, cedar shingles, and beautiful wraparound porches line the streets of the Outer Banks. Many of these homes are even available for a unique historical getaway. Check out our Top 10 OBX Beach Cottages to see some of our favorites!

cape hatteras

4. Day Trips to Paradise

The northernmost tip of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore is located in South Nags Head and provides the perfect backdrop for an awesome day trip. At the beginning of this 70-mile stretch of beach is the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge, which remains untouched and protected from commercial and/or residential development. Beach days down here are unique in how quiet it is year-round. Even in peak season, there is a chance you could be the only one for miles! 

ocracoke island ferry

But the beach is not the only draw of Cape Hatteras. World-renowned birding and fishing are popular pastimes for those that visit. While there, check off a couple of lighthouses on your list by visiting Bodie Island Lighthouse and Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. Included in the Cape Hatteras National Seashore is Ocracoke Island. Located two hours south of Nags Head, take a free ferry ride (pro tip: go at sunset for incredible views) and spend some time exploring this remote island. Make sure to check out our guide to Planning Your Day Trip To Ocracoke Island.

5. Nags Head Woods Ecological Preserve

Hike through one of the largest maritime forests on the East Coast. With many miles of trails with all levels of intensity (and even some pet-friendly routes), Nags Head Woods is a great place to stretch your legs on the OBX. Not to mention, it is a great educational field trip! The park service has installed informational signs throughout the preserve about the history, vegetation, and wildlife. But don’t forget to pack some bug spray just in case.

kayaking the sound

6. Watersports

Surfers, fisherfolk, and kayakers rejoice! Nags Head offers up top tier waters for these hobbyists and more. Its 12 miles of oceanfront coastline and more than 40 public beach accesses to the ocean, and six to the sound make this town a one-stop-shop. Whether you are looking to catch a wave, deep sea fish, or kayak off into the sunset, check out Kitty Hawk Kites water adventures to satisfy every person in your group.

jennette's pier

7. Jennette’s Pier

Jennette’s Pier has been a staple of the Outer Banks coastline since 1939. It was transformed from its original form in 2009 and successfully tested in 2011 when Hurricane Irene swept through the area. Today, this 1,000-foot-long concrete ocean pier offers world-class fishing and sightseeing and an aquarium and event space inside. Jennette’s Pier is open year-round and offers family fun on sunny and dreary days.

8. Jockey’s Ridge State Park

Perhaps Nags Head’s most famous feature is Jockey’s Ridge State Park, the largest natural sand dunes on the east coast of the United States. The park was declared a National Natural Landmark in 1973 after Carolista Baum heroically placed herself in the path of a bulldozer that was prepared to turn the area into residential housing. She helped form what is now known as the Friends of Jockey’s Ridge, a foundation Twiddy & Company is proud to support. Today, millions of people enjoy the panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Albemarle Sound offered by Jockey’s Ridge. With over 400 pristine acres, the park plays host to hang gliding lessons, kite flyers, hikers, dune sledders, and more!

kites on jockey's ridge

Ready to book your Nags Head getaway? Take a look at these awesome vacation rentals!

Laurel Burgam

Laurel Burgam

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