Where Is Nags Head NC?

Once named one of the top places in the United States for a family beach vacation by TripAdvisor! Nags Head, North Carolina, was chosen primarily because of the town’s highly-regarded and pristine beaches.

Nags Head's located on a barrier island known as the Outer Banks off the coast of North Carolina.

The collection of islands is commonly referred to as OBX by area natives and vacationers.

There is much to explore and do in Nags Head, from hang gliding and surfing to fishing and kayaking. Located at Jockey’s Ridge State Park is the largest hang-gliding school in the world! Jockey’s Ridge consists of a group of enormous rolling dunes on the sound side of the town.

Anglers planning a trip to Nags Head will be pleased to learn that there are not one but three piers in this coastal haven, including Nags Head Fishing Pier, Jennette’s Pier, and the Outer Banks Fishing Pier.

Unlike tossing a line in the Atlantic from the shore, you won’t need a North Carolina Fishing License when searching for flounder and trout off the docks of one of the area piers.

Some of the very best restaurants on the coast of North Carolina are in the town, including Basnight’s Lone Cedar Cafe, Tale of the Whale, and Blue Moon Beach Grill, to name a few.

There are more than a few annual events in Nags Head you may be interested in attending. The OBX Brewtag, Outer Banks Seafood Festival, and Outer Banks Pirate Festival take place in this popular coastal territory.

Up for sightseeing during your stay?

Don’t miss your opportunity to take a photo of Bodie Island Lighthouse in South Nags Head! Take a ride down NC 12, and you won’t miss the structure's black and white stripes. Self-guided tours are available most of the year, and the grounds are open for 12 months.

Most people who vacation in Nags Head stay in a rental home available from the sound side to the oceanfront and everywhere in-between!

There are also a few very well-kept condominiums that rent out units primarily during the busy summer months of June, July, and August.

Nags Head is peaceful and quiet for nine months out of the year and, in my opinion, is best visited during September and October. But, of course, this is difficult to achieve if you have young children in school.