Why Choose Nags Head as your Vacation Destination?

Your one-stop-shop of the Outer Banks

By Tori Eger

Nags Head, one of the largest towns of the Outer Banks, has much to offer visitors and residents alike. It is the first resort area on the Outer Banks, with its original oceanfront homes, the Unpainted Aristocracy, still standing 150 years later. Its rich history combined with today's modern businesses offers a little something for everyone to enjoy.

What is there to do?

If you love the outdoors, you've chosen the right town. It's most well known attraction, Jockey's Ridge State Park offers impeccable 360 views of the Albemarle Sound and the Atlantic Ocean. Catch the sunset from the top of the dune's ridges for a sight you'll never forget. Leading off the State Park is the Nags Head Woods Preserve, which protects the largest maritime forests remaining on the East Coast. Oaks, Hickories, and Beech trees, some dating over 100 years old, rising high from the ridges create a canopy that will leave you in awe as you explore the several miles of hiking trails throughout. But if that doesn't strike your fancy, the town is also home to the largest concentration of miniature golf courses, putt-putt, and watersport outfitters on the northern Outer Banks. Need a beach access? Nags Head has the greatest number of accesses. Grab a fishing pole and head to one of the three traditional piers located in the town.

Shop Until You Drop

We can't forget the shopping options! Head over to the Outlets Nags Head for a large selection of brand-name and designer stores. If you're looking to support local, browse the Gallery Row Arts District that boasts a eccentric community of fine art galleries, chic boutiques, whimsical gift shops, original design jewelry shops, coffee houses, and more.

Foodies Vacation Here

After you've explored, you're bound to be hungry. The best part is, you won't need to leave town to find fresh seafood, amazing dinner views, and local joints that offer adventurous takes on all of your favorites. Choose from several sound-front restaurants with breathtaking views, beach road digs with laid back feels, and even some familiar chains. You can get anything from a walk-up burger with ice cream to a farm-to-table menu with water views. Just remember during the Summer Season waits can be long and most places do not take reservations. If you have a large crowd, you'll want to consider arriving as early as possible for the best experience. Either way, you definitely won't be leaving hungry.

Wedding Bells

Did your amazing dinner with a waterfront view end in a proposal? Congratulations! It only makes sense that you'd choose Nags Head as your wedding destination as well. Coastal Carolina Vacations can help you find the perfect rentals to house your party and guests. Pro tip: start planning early. Nags Head is one of the most popular wedding destinations on the East Coast.

We weren't joking when we said Nags Head can be your one-stop-shop to enjoy a lot of what the Outer Banks has to offer. If you're looking to explore more towns, you're within an hour drive of almost all the major towns. We look forward to hosting you while you're here.