17+ Great Things to Do in Nags Head NC
Looking for Things to Do in Nags Head NC?

We love visiting the Outer Banks, and you’ll find many things to do in Nags Head.
Planning a beach vacation for this summer? You may consider hopping down to the Outer Banks to give Nags Head a go! This beautiful beach town is one of the many on the Outer Banks and has risen in popularity over the years, making it one of the most visited towns in the Outer Banks area.
Nags Head became known in the 1830s as one of North Carolina’s first tourist destinations and quickly became a summer attraction for people worldwide. Nags Head is home to the largest sand dune system on the East Coast, bringing thousands of visitors annually.
Besides the lush beaches and the tall dunes, Nags Head has many other wonderful attributes that make it the perfect place for a getaway. From dolphin cruises to adventure parks, shopping malls, and divine seafood restaurants, Nags Head is truly remarkable. Now let’s dive into the things to do in Nags Head.
Things to do in Nags Head NC
We created this thorough Nags Head guide for you and all those curious about learning more about Nags Head and everything it offers. We hope this helps you plan your next trip to the Outer Banks (OBX)!
1. Jockey’s Ridge State Park
Address: 300 W Carolista Dr, Nags Head, NC 27959
Jockey’s Ridge State Park is the number one most visited state park in North Carolina and for a good reason! This 427-acre park contains the East Coast’s tallest active sand dune system and is the premier hang gliding spot in the Outer Banks.

Visitors can explore the mile of hiking trails, walk along the dunes, enjoy the kayak or boat launches, have a picnic, or try hang gliding, sandboarding, and kite surfing.

2. Bodie Island Lighthouse
Address: 8210 Bodie Island Lighthouse Rd, Nags Head, NC 27959
Bodie Lighthouse is a 156-foot-tall lighthouse built in 1872. The unique black and white lighthouse can be easily accessed by car during the summer months. Tours of the lighthouse run daily, and visitors can walk the 214 steps to the top. Guests can even participate in the full moon climbs to the top of the lighthouse in June, July, August, and September.
The Bodie Lighthouse is not only a fun experience but an interesting place to learn about as well. This historical lighthouse is one of the few brick tower lighthouses that remain in operation in the country. After your tour, there is a small gift shop with souvenirs.

3. Jennette’s Pier / Fishing
Address: 7223 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC 27959
Jennette’s Pier is notably the longest (and the oldest) pier in the Outer Banks, reaching 1,000 feet into the Atlantic Ocean.
Anyone is welcome to walk out onto the pier and enjoy sightseeing, panoramic ocean views, and excellent sunsets. Jennette’s Pier is arguably the best spot for fishing in the area and is open to the public (with a permit.)
After recent renovations, the pier has also opened a fully educational area with historical plaques, maps, fish ID signs, a weather station, and more.

4. Whalebone Park
Address: 7300 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC 27959
This nautical-themed park is the perfect place to bring the kids for the afternoon.

Whalebone Park is 16.5 acres and has a very exciting beachy-themed playground and shaded picnic area. The park also has bocce and volleyball courts and lots of areas to walk around.

5. First Flight Adventure Park
Address: 6716 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC 27959
First Flight Adventure Park is the Outer Banks’ ultimate adventure park and obstacle course. This thrilling park offers 14 zip-line courses, 50 obstacle courses, and night climbing! This will be a unique adventure that the whole family can enjoy.

6. Dowdy Park/Farmers Market
Address: 3005 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC 27959
Dowdy Park is a popular, family-friendly park in South Nags Head. The 5-acre park offers an exciting playground, exercise trail, sports courts, and fitness center. Popular summer events occur at Dowdy Park, such as the weekly farmers market every Thursday from 9 am to 1 pm, free yoga, and community movie nights.
7. Go Shopping at Nags Head Outlet
Address: 7100 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC 27959
Nags Head Outlet is a small outdoor mall featuring all your favorite brand names and designer stores at a lower price. If you forgot some important clothing for the trip, a quick stop at Nags Head Outlet will fix everything!

8. More Shopping in Nags Head
Outlet stores aren’t the only good shopping in Nags Head. Let’s take a look at some of the best retail stores in the area.
🛍️ Outer Banks Mall
Address: 5000 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC 27959
The Outer Banks Mall has everything from retail stores to popular restaurants (including a Ducks Donuts shop), grocery stores, and more.

🛍️ TW’s Bait & Tackle
Address: 2230 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC 27959
TW’s Bait and Tackle is the number one outdoor gear and tackle shop in Nags Head. Visitors can purchase athletic, hunting, boating, hunting, and fishing gear along with accessories, tools, and knives. There are also a number of great gifts and souvenirs, and if you are in need of a fishing permit, TW’s is the place to go.
🛍️ Farmers Daughter Nags Head
Address: 6803 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC 27959
Many might know Farmers Daughter as Coastal Lifestyle Outfitters; this exciting retail store has been serving the Outer Banks since 1984. They have a wide selection of men’s, women’s, and children’s apparel, as well as accessories, gifts, and souvenirs.

🛍️ Cavalier Surf Shop
Address: 4324 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC 27959
Cavalier Surf Shop is a beloved shop and the best surfing resource around Nags Head. The little yellow shop has brand-name wet suits, bathing suits, clothing, and other beach accessories. They also offer wet suit and board rentals. Everyone who works at Cavalier Surf Shop is very knowledgeable and can give you all the info on surfing in the area.
🛍️ The Cotton Gin
Address: 5151 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC 27959
The Cotton Gin is a must-do on any trip to Nags Head. The store is a hip, coastal gift shop with home decor, accessories, gifts, jewelry, and more.

🛍️ Gulf Stream Gifts
Address: 2512 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC 27959
Recently remodeled and with tons of new items, Gulf Stream Gifts is one of the best places in Nags Head to grab beach knick-knacks, unique gifts, and souvenirs.
🛍️ The Salty Seahorse
Address: 7100 S Croatan Hwy Suite 155, Nags Head, NC 27959
The Salty Seahorse is a lovely beach-themed gift shop with two locations in Nags Head. They sell several artisan soaps, bath bombs, handcrafted seaside gifts, jewelry, and more.
9. Explore Nags Head Beaches
Of course, your summer vacation to Nags Head must consist of many relaxing days spent on the beach. Now is your time to pull up a comfortable beach chair, bring out the beach blankets, umbrellas, and bathing suits, and enjoy the sand and salty air. It’s a must for your things to do in Nags Head.
The beaches in Nags Head are dog-friendly all year long as long as the dogs remain on a leash. Alcohol is allowed as long as you are drinking from a can (glass is strictly prohibited,) and if you want to have a summer night beach bonfire, go right ahead!

42 Public Beach Access Points
⛱️ Albatross St. – Parking, lifeguard
⛱️ Gallery Row- No parking, walk-in only
⛱️ Abalone St. – Parking, lifeguard, bathrooms, showers
⛱️ Admiral St. – Parking only
⛱️ Baltic St. – Parking, lifeguard, handicap accessible, bathrooms, showers
⛱️ Barnes St. – Parking, showers, bathrooms
⛱️ Blackman St. – Parking, handicap accessible, bathrooms, showers
⛱️ Bonnett St. – Parking, lifeguard, handicap accessible, showers, bathhouse
⛱️ Bittern St. – Parking, showers
⛱️ Bladen St. – Parking, showers, bathrooms
⛱️ Bainbridge St. – Parking, walkway
⛱️ Curlew St. – Parking, handicap accessible, showers, bathrooms
⛱️ Hollowell St. – Parking, lifeguard, showers, walkway
⛱️ Conch St. – Parking, handicap accessible, walkway
⛱️ Enterprise St. – Parking, lifeguard, handicap accessible, walkway, showers, bathrooms
⛱️ Loggerhead St. – Parking, walkway, showers
⛱️ Town Hall- Parking, handicap accessible, walkway, bathrooms
⛱️ Epstein St. – Parking, lifeguard, walkways, showers, bathhouse
⛱️ Forrest St. – Parking, handicap accessible, lifeguard, walkway, showers, bathrooms
⛱️ Grouse St. – No parking, walk-in only
⛱️ Glidden St. – Parking, handicap accessible, walkway, showers
⛱️ Gull St. – Parking, handicap accessible
⛱️ Gray Eagle St. – Parking, lifeguard, walkway, showers
⛱️ Jennette’s Pier- Fishing pier, parking, and sand access, handicap accessible, showers, bathhouse
⛱️ Gulfstream St. – Parking, handicap accessible, walkway, showers
⛱️ Governor St. – Parking, bathrooms
⛱️ Huron St. – Parking, lifeguard, walkways, bathrooms
⛱️ Holden St. – Parking, handicap accessible, walkway
⛱️ Hargrove St. – Parking, lifeguard, handicap accessible, walkway, showers, bathhouse
⛱️ Ida St. – Parking, lifeguard
⛱️ Isabella St. – Parking only
⛱️ OB Pier. – Fishing pier, parking, and sand access, tackle shop, boat rentals, restaurants, handicap-accessible
⛱️ Islington St. – No parking, walk-in only
⛱️ Indigo St. – Parking, handicap accessible, lifeguard, walkway, showers, bathrooms
⛱️ Jay St. – No parking, walk-in only
⛱️ June St. – Parking, handicap accessible, walkway, showers, bathrooms
⛱️ James St. – No parking, walk-in only
⛱️ Jacobs St. – No parking, walk-in only
⛱️ Juncos St. – Parking, handicap accessible, lifeguard, walkway, showers, bathrooms
⛱️ Surfside St. – No parking, walk-in only
⛱️ Limulus Dr. – Parking, lifeguard
⛱️ Coquina St. – Parking, lifeguard, handicap accessible, walkway, showers, bathhouse

10. Outer Banks Fishing Pier
Address: 8901 S Old Oregon Inlet Rd, Nags Head, NC 27959
The Outer Banks Fishing Pier spans 600 feet into the ocean and has been serving as a premier fishing spot for over 50 years. It is a great location for sightseeing, and the popular restaurant Fish Heads Bar and Grill is located on the pier.
11. Harvey Soundside Park
Address: 6912 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC 27959
Harvey Soundside Park is located near Jennette’s Pier and is a great place for an afternoon stroll or picnic. This area is usually quiet and a nice place to sit and enjoy looking at the water.
12. Full Throttle Speedway
Address: 6504 Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC 27959
Full Throttle Speedway is the ultimate go-kart racing track in the Outer Banks. At Full Throttle, they have two tracks, so up to 20 gas-powered Indy-style go-karts can race at the same time!
There is even a Super Sea Track for junior racers to have their turn. The whole family will have a blast and, afterward, can stop by the concession stand for ice cream, cotton candy, and more.

13. Nags Head Golf Links
Address: 5615 S Seachase Dr, Nags Head, NC 27959
Nags Head Golf Links is a beautiful 18-hole golf course by the sea. Visitors are welcome to enjoy a true Scottish links-style championship course amongst the dunes.
14. Nags Head Dolphin Watch
Address: 7517 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC 27959
What’s a beach trip without an exciting dolphin watch? Nags Head Dolphin Watch is the premier dolphin boat tour and a great way to get out on the water.
The tours take place on a 40-foot pontoon boat that goes out on the Roanoke Sound to see the beautiful local dolphins. The tours usually take about two hours, and along the way, researchers talk about the area, give small history lessons, and teach guests more about the dolphins.
15. Seaside Art Gallery
Address: 2716 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC 27959
The Seaside Art Gallery opened in 1961, the same year that Nags Head was officially incorporated as a town. The gallery has works representing the finest North Carolina artists, including painters, sculptors, potters, and more.

16. Play Volleyball at Tortugas Lie
Address: 3016 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC 27959
Tortugas Lie is a fun restaurant in Nags Head (more information in the Drink and Restaurants section below.) Besides being an amazing restaurant, Tortugas Lie has been the spot for beach volleyball in the Outer Banks.
They have professional nets and a turfed area for guests, and on most nights in the summer, visitors can find (and join) a competitive-level game of volleyball.

17. Booty Treats Ice Cream & Shave Ice
Address: 2600 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC 27959
Booty Treats is something you don’t want to miss out on. They offer authentic Hawaiian-shaved ice, a unique blend of shaved ice and ice cream (something you won’t find anywhere else,) mouthwatering ice cream bars, homemade cookie sandwiches, sundaes, and so many more tasty summer treats.

Drinks and Restaurants in Nags Head NC
We certainly can’t fit all of the amazing restaurants in Nags Head into one article, but here are just some of our favorites. Here are some great options after exploring all the things to do in Nags Head.
✅ Owen’s Restaurant
Address: 7114 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC 27959
Owen’s Restaurant is a seafood culinary delight with fresh, locally caught seafood served each night. The eatery, dating back to 1946, is a local favorite to enjoy a very nice meal. Owen’s Restaurant also features the Station Keepers Lounge, a classy, low-key, full-service bar with handcrafted cocktails and live music.
✅ Tale of the Whale
Address: 7575 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC 27959
Tale of the Whale is an upscale eatery that has been family-owned and operated for over 44 years. They serve a variety of fresh, locally caught seafood plates, along with choice steaks, salads, pastas, and more. Guests can dine on their delicious meals while overlooking Roanoke Sound. Tale of the Whale Lounge also has live music all year long.
✅ Miller’s Waterfront Restaurant
Address: 6916 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC 27959
Miller’s Waterfront Restaurant is a classic seafood grill and bar with a nice variety of quality food and a beautiful view of the sound. The location is unbeatable, and the menu is simply perfect. Stop in and try their surf and turf or one-of-a-kind tuna nachos.

✅ The Dunes Restaurant
Address: 7013 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC 27959
For over 40 seasons, The Dunes has been serving the Outer Banks’ specialty Southern classics, breakfast spectaculars, seafood dishes, and more. This family-friendly restaurant is the perfect casual dining option and another fantastic breakfast option in Nags Head.

✅ Fish Heads Bar & Grill
Address: 8901 S Old Oregon Inlet Rd, Nags Head, NC 27959
Fish Heads is one of the most popular bars & restaurants in all of the Outer Banks, let alone Nags Head! They are the self-proclaimed best tiki bar in the Outer Banks and the best place for late-night community and music in Nags Head. Fish Heads can be found on the Outer Banks Fishing Pier, giving it a prime location, and has everything you might need for a casual lunch or delicious dinner.

✅ Waveriders Coffee & Deli
Address: 3022 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC 27959
Waveriders Coffee and & Deli is a fun, nautical-themed cafe right across the street from Dowdy Park. They have a large selection of all your favorite coffee drinks, smoothies, breakfast foods, and wine, beer, and lunch options.

✅ Blue Moon Beach Grill
Address: 102 E Dove St, Nags Head, NC 27959
This beachy-themed grill and restaurant is the perfect place to bring the family and get in the beach vacation mood! The spacious restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating serves the best Southern comfort food with its own flare at an affordable price. They have lots of options, a great kids’ menu, and a full bar.

✅ Sam & Omie’s
Address: 7228 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC 27959
Sam & Omie’s has an Outer Banks history that dates back to the 1930s and is a MUST do while you are in the area. This early morning breakfast spot is the perfect little local fisherman hideaway serving the most classic Southern breakfast and great lunch and dinner meals.

✅ Tortugas Lie
Address: 3016 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC 27959
Tortugas Lie is a humble little beachy restaurant with meals that will not only surprise you but keep you coming back. The laid-back, family-style restaurant serves great home-cooked seafood dishes, handcrafted margaritas, burgers, burritos, apps, and much more.
✅ Basnight’s Lone Cedar Cafe
Address: 7623 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC 27959
Basnights is a large, comfortable restaurant that specializes in fresh, locally caught seafood. This family-friendly establishment serves all farm-to-table dishes in an upscale, affordable way. If you are craving some delicious Outer Banks seafood, you can’t go wrong at Basnight’s Lone Cedar Cafe.

✅ Morning View Coffee House
Address: 2707 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC 27959
Morning View Coffee House is an upbeat, colorful coffee house owned and operated by a team of all-women. They are constantly roasting their own fresh coffee throughout the day, and they serve delicious breakfast items, pastries, bagels, and more. Make sure to grab a bag of locally roasted beans on your way out!

Things to do near Nags Head, NC
Looking to get out of Nags Head for the day to explore someplace new? Here are some exciting places to visit nearby!
✅ North Carolina Aquarium
Address: 374 Airport Rd, Manteo, NC 27954
The North Carolina Aquarium is a beautiful 16-acre facility overlooking the Croatan Sound. Inside the aquarium are over 2,200 animals, including sharks, sea turtles, jellyfish, stingrays, otters, alligators, and lots more. Visitors are welcome to explore the aquarium at their own pace or join in a special indoor/outdoor program for special behind-the-scenes action!
✅ Roanoke Island
Roanoke Island is a famous island and town with lots of fascinating history and other interesting attractions. You may have heard of the “Lost Colony,” the first English Colony that vanished without a trace on Roanoke Island.
Visitors can go to the spot where the colony was never found again, learn about the history, see artifacts, and more. Roanoke Island also has lots of lovely hiking, parks, maritime forests, lighthouses, and more. A trip to Roanoke Island from Nags Head is the perfect day trip.

Where To Stay in Nags Head NC
📍Nags Head Beach Inn– Nags Head Beach Inn is an inexpensive, hassle-free way to spend your vacation. The fully decorated and comfortable rooms will be the perfect fit for your vacation needs, and the hotel is just minutes from things like Nags Head Town Park, Dowdy Park, beach access, and more.
📍Comfort Inn South Oceanfront – This Comfort Inn is a great option if you want beachfront access, so guests can simply grab their continental hot breakfast and stroll right onto the beach. The rooms are clean and spacious, and other amenities include an outdoor pool, fitness center, and pet-friendly rooms.
📍First Colony Inn– The First Colony Inn is a popular and delightful hotel with private beach access, a full bar, breakfast, and complimentary wine, cheese, and desserts. The rustic-style rooms are perfect for a couples’ beach getaway or a family trip to Nags Head. Guests will also enjoy the outdoor swimming pool, extraordinary room service, and overall location.
📍Beach Vacation Home– This charming beach vacation house will have you feeling right at home in Nags Head. The house has three bedrooms, sleeps up to eight, has four bathrooms, and is fully equipped with a full kitchen, full house decor, and comfortable rooms. The home is just minutes away from the beach, Jockey’s Ridge State Park, has a hot tub, and is pet-friendly.
Nags Head NC: FAQs
📌 What is Nags Head, NC, known for?
Nags Head is known for having the largest sand dunes at Jockey’s Ridge State Park and for being one of the leading vacation towns in the Outer Banks.
📌 Does Nags Head have good beaches?
Nags Head has some of the best and most popular beaches in the Outer Banks. This is due to the beautiful sand dunes and immaculate shoreline.
📌 Is the Outer Banks and Nags Head the same place?
Nags Head is a town located within the Outer Banks, a string of barrier islands and peninsulas separating the ocean from the mainland of North Carolina.
📌 Does Nags Head have a boardwalk?
Nags Head does not have a boardwalk, but it does have the longest pier (Jennette’s Pier) in the Outer Banks. Popular boardwalks in the Outer Banks are in Duck and Manteo.
📌 Does Nags Head have nightlife?
Nags Head isn’t particularly known for having a nightlife scene. Fish Heads Bar and Grill is about the only place in town that is open late at night with live music.
📌 Does Nags Head get crowded?
Compared to other areas in the Outer Banks, Nags Head does see a lot of traffic along with Kitty Hawk and Duck. However, this doesn’t mean that Nags Head isn’t still a relaxing place to enjoy with family. If you want a quieter location, head to Corolla or Hatteras area.
📌 Can you drink beer on the beaches of Nags Head?
As long as you are drinking beer from a can, it is allowed on the beaches of Nags Head. Glass containers are strictly prohibited.
📌 What months are hurricane season in the Outer Banks?
Hurricane season is from June 1st through November.
Final Thoughts
We hope after reading this article, you’ve definitely made up your mind about a trip to Nags Head! Whether you are looking for a family vacation, a romantic weekend getaway, or even just a solo beach trip, Nags Head will not disappoint. Be sure to break out your favorite swimwear, grab that book you’ve been putting off, a waterproof camera, and just enjoy that much-needed trip to the coast.