What is Nags Head, NC known for?

If you’ve looked into the Outer Banks, it’s almost certain you’ve come across Nags Head, NC. With quaint beach cottages, relaxing beaches, and the tallest natural dune system in the eastern United States, this small town encompasses all that the Outer Banks region is known for. If you’re headed to town, check out our tips below on how to make the most of your trip!

What is Nags Head, NC known for?

So, what is Nags Head, NC known for? Nags Head, NC is known for its small town charm and relaxed pace of life. As one of the biggest tourist attractions in the Outer Banks, Nags Head offers something for everyone, from beautiful stretches of well-kept beaches, to popular restaurants and art galleries.

Is the beach in Nags Head, NC nice?

Nags Head’s beaches are the town’s top attraction, partially due to how well kept they are! All beaches in Nags Head are pet friendly so a day at the beach is truly an event for the entire family. Surf fishing is also allowed with a license. Headed to Nags Head in the off-season? Beach driving is allowed from October to April and provides a unique experience for visitors.

What is there to do in Nags Head, NC?

Aside from spending a day (or several!) at the beach, Nags Head, NC offers a variety of attractions to spice up your trip. A visit to Jockey’s Ridge State Park is a must to see the largest natural dune system on the East Coast. The park also allows hang gliding and kite flying which is hard to pass up with such a beautiful backdrop.

Nags Head’s two fishing piers, the Nags Head Fishing Pier and the Outer Banks Fishing Pier, attract anglers looking to cast a line during their stay. End the day with a stroll along Gallery Row to see some local art and dinner at the Blue Moon Beach Grill or the Kill Devil Grill for some fresh seafood.

Nags Head NC

Does Nags Head, NC get busy with tourists?

Nags Head, NC does attract quite a few tourists during Summer months, but most will agree it does not feel overcrowded. With so much room to spread out, and most visitors in vacation rentals, it’s still easy to feel like you’re getting away from it all.

What is the history of Nags Head, NC?

Nags Head, NC is known as the area’s first “”tourist” colony. The town first attracted visitors in the early 1830’s due to its beauty, remoteness, and close proximity to neighboring towns. From that time on tourism became the main industry in Nags Head, with vacation cottages, shops, a bowling alley, and even a church for visitors popping up by the mid-19th century. Nags Head, NC retains much of the charm the area was originally known for to this day.

What airports are close to Nags Head, NC?

Norfolk International Airport is the closest airport to Nags Head, NC with the most non-stop options to major US cities.

  • Norfolk International Airport ORF (1.75 hours)
  • Raleigh-Durham International Airport RDU (3.15 hours)

Driving Directions to Nags Head, NC:

  • From Norfolk, VA (1.5 hours)
    • Take VA-168 S for 16 miles then continue onto NC-168 S for 18 miles
    • Continue onto US-158 E for 40 miles
  • From Raleigh, NC (3 hours)
    • Take I-87 for 10 miles
    • Continue onto US-64 E for 166 miles
    • Continue straight onto US-64 BYP E for 6 miles
    • Continue onto US-64 E for 3.5 miles
    • Continue onto US-158 W for 4 miles

Where to Stay in Nags Head, NC?

There is no shortage of vacation rentals in Nags Head, NC. Check out our top picks below!

  • Beach Cottage
    • Two bedroom, one bath houseboat that sleeps 4
    • Newly renovated
    • Steps from the beach
  • Waterfront w/ Dock
    • Three bedroom, two bath home that sleeps 6
    • Several large decks
    • Beach, fishing, and picnic supplies
Where to stay in Nags Head NC

Pristine beaches, rolling sand dunes and delicious seafood don’t even begin to cover all there is to do in Nags Head, NC! Perfect for a first-time visitor to the Outer Banks, this town has something for everyone in the family. If you enjoyed this article, be sure to share with friends and family looking for an escape of their own!

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