On the East Coast in the North Carolina’s Outer Banks, is the town of Nags Head. Nags Head is known for its beautiful beaches, outdoor adventures, great food and shopping. Whether you are going on vacation for relaxation, excitement or a mixture of both, this beautiful beach town has you covered.

There is a lot packed into this small beach town, with the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Albermarle Sound on the other. It has long been a go-to destination for family beach vacations. Below are some Nags Head spots and activities you don’t want to miss on your next visit.

Nags Head Map

Things to Do in Nags Head, NC

Outdoor Nags Head Attractions

Jockey’s Ridge State Park

Flying a plane in Jocky's Ridge in Nags Head, NC — Photo Credit: VisitNC.com

Jockey’s Ridge State Park is home to the tallest natural sand dune system in the Eastern half of the United States. Climb these beautiful dunes for breathtaking views of the ocean and sound. Also, there is a good chance you will see local wildlife like deer, foxes and rabbits. And don’t underestimate the thrill of running down the dunes as fast as you can!

Address: 300 W Carolista Dr, Nags Head
Hours: Monday -Sunday: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm

First Flight Adventure Park

Do you have a thrill seeker in your family? Then, don’t skip on visiting First Flight Adventure Park! This park features more than 40 obstacles and zip lines located 50 feet in the air. Each obstacle course varies in difficulty, so you’re sure to find a course that suits you.

Tickets are priced between $45 and $55, and the minimum age limit is 6 years old with a minimum height requirement of 3’9″.

Address: 6716 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head (GPS)
Hours: Wednesday: 11:00 am- 2:00 pm, Thursday: 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Friday & Saturday:9:30 am – 4:00 pm

Bodie Island Lighthouse

Just south of the main area of Nags Head, you will find the majestic Bodie Island Lighthouse. You can by tickets to climb the 200 steps to the top. The views are well worth the physical activity and the small ticket price. Ticket sales help maintain the lighthouse.

If you are not up for the climb, you can adventure around the grounds. There is a wonderful boardwalk that takes you through a marsh area. You are almost guaranteed to see wildlife in their natural habitat!

Address: 8210 Bodie Island Lighthouse Rd, Nags Head
Hours: 24 hours

Nags Head Dolphin Watch

Enjoy an unforgettable memory by taking your family on a dolphin tour! The biologist run Nags Head Dolphin Watch tours guarantee you will be shown the best places to see dolphins and wildlife. Along with learning about these beloved creatures.

Address: 7517 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head
Cost of Admission: $32.00 for adults, $18.00 for kids 12 and under, $1.00 for infants
Sunset tours: $37.00 for adults, $22.00 for 12 & under, $1.00 for infants

Dowdy Park

If you need of a free but fun spot for your kids, then head to Dowdy Park. This local favorite park spreads across five acres, with lots of amenities including basketball and pickleball courts, a playground, a bocce area, restrooms, and an amphitheater. The park also has free Wi-Fi!

Address: 3005 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head
Hours: Monday – Sunday: 6:00 am – 9:00 pm

Outer Banks Horseback

Would you like to tour the beach town in the most unique way? Horseback riding is the way to go! At Outer Banks Horseback Riding experienced guides will make this an memorable adventure for even the most inexperienced horseback rider.

Address: Bodie Island Lighthouse Rd. &, North Carolina Hwy 12, Nags Head
Hours: 24 hrs.

Jennette’s Pier

If fishing is on your to-do list, go to Nags Head Pier also known as Jennette’s Pier. This is the longest public pier in all of North Carolina. Thus, giving fisherman a great chance at catching red drum and other local water fish.

Even if you are not a fan of fishing the pier has much to offer. The fishing pier hosts aquariums where you can learn about the rich local marine life. The adjoining beaches are large and beautiful. Plus, there are multiple shops and food options in walking distance of the pier.

Address: 7223 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head
Hours: April and November 7:00 am – 9:00 pm, December – March 9: 00 am –
5:00 pm, May – October 6:00 am – 10 pm.

EnvirOBX Island Eco-Adventures

At EnvirOBX Island Eco-Adventures visitors take tours on boats or kayaks and visit hidden from most spots where they’ll learn about coastal wildlife and habitats.

Adventures include kayak fishing trips, boat and kayak tours, and surfing lessons. So, take some time on your vacation to learn about and appreciate the local ecology and wildlife.

Address: Various locations
Hours: Monday – Saturday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

Nags Head Beach, North Carolina

Nags Head Beach, NC — Photo Credit: VisitNC.com

The beaches in Nags Head are wide, clean, and perfect for everything from sunbathing to surfing. With plenty of public beach access points, you’ll find it easy to claim your spot in the sand. Lifeguard stations are open seasonally, and beach rules help keep the area safe and family-friendly. Whether you’re building sandcastles or simply listening to the waves, Nags Head Beach is a must-visit.

Nags Head Golf Links

Golfers will love Nags Head Golf Links, an 18-hole Scottish-style course with sweeping views of the Roanoke Sound. The course is known for its challenging holes, ocean breezes, and natural beauty. The on-site clubhouse offers a restaurant and bar where you can relax after your game.

Nags Head Woods Preserve

Escape into nature at the Nags Head Woods Preserve, a 1,400-acre nature preserve with maritime forests, wetlands, and sand dunes. Hiking trails range from easy to moderate, making them great for families. Birdwatchers will especially enjoy spotting local and migratory species.

Kitty Hawk Kites Nags Head

Located right across from Jockey’s Ridge State Park, Kitty Hawk Kites is the go-to spot for kite flying, parasailing, hang gliding lessons, and water sports rentals. The shop also sells Outer Banks souvenirs, apparel, and beach toys.

Nags Head Shopping

Seagreen Gallery

If you are looking for unique gifts or décor, Seagreen Gallery will not disappoint! This shop sales objects repurposed from antiques, driftwood art and so much more. Don’t skip the hidden gems you will find in the creative garden area outback.

Address: 2404 South Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head
Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 am -5: 00 pm

Seaside Art Gallery

With more than 2,000 works of art by international, national, and local artists, art enthusiasts will love the Seaside Art Gallery. This family-run gallery opened in 1961, and one of the largest private galleries in the Southeast. Visitors can take a self-guided tour and learn about the artwork on display. Moreover, most of the art on display is for sale.

Address: 2716 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head
Hours: Monday – Saturday: 10:00 am -5:00 pm

Whalebone Surf Shop

If you need quality and cool beachwear, gear and beach essentials, then head to Whalebone Surf Shop. You will find well-known surf brands like Rusty, Volcom, Roxy, O’Neill, and Quiksilver. This shop is celebrating 50 years of serving the Outer Banks!

Address: 2214 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head
Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 am -7:00 pm

The French Door OBX Boutique

The French Door has a unique and unusual collection of clothing, handbags, accessories, home decor, jewelry, beauty items, and gifts. This shop is perfect for finding the perfect gifts that is from high-quality brands and local artisans.

Address: 2921 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head
Hours: Monday – Friday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm, Saturday: 10: 00 am -5: 00 pm

Nags Head Restaurants

Sam & Omie’s

Sam & Omie’s originally opened on the Outer Banks by a couple of fishermen as a pre-fishing breakfast stop. 85 years later, the restaurant still maintains its seaside flavor. This breakfast, lunch and dinner restaurant has great food and gives a barefoot and “beachy” vibe.

Address: 7228 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head
Hours: Monday – Saturday: 7:00 am – 9:00 pm, Sunday 7:00 am – 2:30 pm, CLOSED Wednesday

Tortugas Lie

Tortugas Lie has a delicious Caribbean-themed menu. They are so well known that landed a spot on the popular TV show Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, hosted by Guy Fieri. Along with great food, they have a “backyard” with volleyball courts, and a store selling Tortugas Lie merchandise, seasonings, and sauces.

Address: 3016 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head
Hours: Monday – Saturday: 11:30 am –9:30 pm

Blue Moon Beach Grill

The saying at Blue Moon Beach Grill is “Once in a blue moon, you get to taste life on a sandbar”. They serve outstanding seafood, with quality dining and southern hospitality. In the summertime you can enjoy nightly music on the back lawn.

Address: 102 East Dove St., Nags Head
Hours: Wednesday – Monday: 11:30 am –9:00 pm

Nags Head Pizza Company

Considered the “freshest slice on the OBX”, the pizza at Nags Head Pizza Company is like no other! Not only is their pizza fresh but they also make fresh homemade dressings, daily baked mushrooms, homemade meatballs, and freshly cut bruschetta.

Address: 4036 South Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head
Hours: OPEN DAILY at 4PM

Miller’s Waterfront Restaurant

At Miller’s Waterfront Restaurant you not only get fresh catch on their extensive seafood menu, but also a beautiful view of the Roanoke Sound. The two-story Waterfront Sunset Bar & Grill offers steamers and delicious snacks, tacos, and sandwiches. This second-floor addition has large windows offering a new twist on open air dining.

Address: 6916 South Croatan Hwy., Nags Head
Hours: Monday – Sunday: 11:00 am –9:30 pm

A few more restaurants you don’t want to miss:

Duck Donuts
Village Pizza
Fish Heads Bar & Grill

Places to Stay in Nags Head

Nags Head Hotels

Surf Side Hotel Nags Head

If you’re looking for a Nags Head beach hotel with oceanfront views, Surf Side Hotel in Nags Head is a favorite among visitors. Guests enjoy direct beach access, complimentary breakfast, an indoor and outdoor pool, and spacious rooms with balconies perfect for watching the sunrise. It’s also close to many attractions, so you can explore the town without much driving.

Nags Head Rentals

Vacation rentals in Nags Head range from cozy beach cottages to luxury oceanfront homes. Many rentals include full kitchens, outdoor showers, hot tubs, and decks for soaking in the coastal scenery. This is a great option if you’re visiting with a large group or want the privacy and convenience of your own space. Popular rental areas include South Nags Head for a quieter vibe and central Nags Head for proximity to restaurants and shops.

No matter where you end up for food, shopping or adventure in Nags Head, you are sure to be pleased. Plus, you will be already planning your next trip to visit all the spots you didn’t get to on this vacation!

By: Sandy Harper

FAQ About Nags Head, NC

What is the weather like in Nags Head, NC?

Nags Head enjoys mild winters and warm, sunny summers. Spring and fall bring pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Summer highs average in the mid-80s°F, while winter temperatures often stay in the 50s°F. Hurricane season runs from June through November, so check forecasts before your trip.

Where is Nags Head, NC located?

Nags Head is situated at one of the widest points of North Carolina’s Outer Banks. To the south, it’s bordered by Oregon Inlet and the Cape Hatteras National Seashore; to the west, it meets the calm waters of Roanoke Sound; and to the north, it neighbors the town of Kill Devil Hills. To the east is Manteo. This prime location offers easy access to both ocean and sound activities, making it a perfect base for exploring the Outer Banks.