This beachy chain of islands is known for its historic firsts.
The picturesque Outer Banks, in North Carolina, are steeped in history, dating all the way back to the first Colonial settlement at Roanoke, through the heyday of pirating in the region (Blackbeard’s treasure is rumored to be buried on Ocracoke) to the start of aviation. Each island and small town offers its own unique attractions — the wild horses of Corolla, the massive sand dunes of Nags Head, the site of the Wright Brothers' first flight in Kill Devil Hills — but they all have wide beaches and jaw-dropping ocean views.
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Explore Outer Banks

  • Kill Devil Hills
  • Manteo
  • Corolla
  • Nags Head

Kill Devil Hills

Overview

This small town is the heart of the Outer Banks, brimming with scenic beaches, quirky art and souvenir shops, historic attractions and plenty of bars and restaurants serving the catch of the day.

Known For

Beaches, Historic Landmarks, Dining, Shopping

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Manteo

Overview

This town on Roanoke Island is buzzing with activity. With plenty of historical landmarks and museums as well as a wow-worthy waterfront and marina, Manteo is anything but sleepy. With many restaurants, a brewery and a rum distillery, foodies will have a blast here.

Known For

Museums, Attractions, Dining

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Corolla

Overview

Located in the northernmost part of the Outer Banks, this neighborhood boasts a plethora of natural wonders, from wild horses to miles of white-sand beaches. Explore the nautical history of the area with a tour of Currituck Beach Lighthouse, which was built in 1873 and added to the National Register of Historic Places in the 1970s.

Known For

Beaches, Nature

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Nags Head

Overview

Nags Head is heaven for outdoor enthusiasts and water sports fans. With three piers, the fishing tradition runs deep. This area is also home to the tallest dune on the East Coast — a spectacular spot for taking in the sunset.

Known For

Nightlife, Beaches, Attractions, Shopping, Dining

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Nearby Hotels and Resorts

Stay in the Center of it All

Immerse yourself in your destination at these centrally located hotels.

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Unwind With Three Days in the Outer Banks, North Carolina

A bowl of seafood on a table

Make a Splash

With more than 100 miles of shoreline, there’s a beach to satisfy your every mood and need on the Outer Banks. From lively stretches of sand full of beachgoers and water sports rental shops to remote national seashores, experience OBX from the sand on your first day.

a straight-on view of the Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse

Take a Trip Back in History

Old lighthouses, museums and historical sights are in abundance here, so spend the day exploring this scenic region's history, lore and culture, both on land and in the air.

The sun set over a sand dune

Explore the OBX's Natural Beauty

The Outer Banks have no shortage of nature trails, wildlife refuges and state parks home to diverse flora and fauna — which is what you’ll explore. You can be taking snaps of the wild horses on a beach one minute and bird-watching in a lush maritime forest the next.

Experience More, Spend Less