Outer Banks oceanfront view of Duck, North Carolina.

7 Prettiest Towns In the Outer Banks

A series of marvelous towns line the shores of the Outer Banks, each with its own distinctive appeal. From the pristine shores of Duck Beach to the maritime tales interlaced into the Keeper's House in Corolla, each of these seven towns stands as an exceptional destination. Dive into the aviation history as you explore the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kitty Hawk or marvel at the outdoor beauty and the Eastern United States' tallest sand dune at Jockey's Ridge State Park in Nag's Head. The Outer Banks, with their dynamic history and distinct landscapes, serve as proof of the spirit of coastal life in the United States.

Towns In The Outer Banks That Were Ranked US FavoritesAside from the breezes and the waves, the Outer Banks hosts a cornucopia of beautiful small towns often ranked among U.S. favorites.

Kitty Hawk

The Wright brothers' monumental achievements in aviation have made Kitty Hawk renowned. The Wright Brothers National Memorial marks the site where Orville and Wilbur Wright accomplished the first successful powered flight in 1903. Taking a stroll on the Kitty Hawk Pier, which extends into the Atlantic Ocean and allows visitors to enjoy all-encompassing views of the coastline, is a great way to spend an afternoon. Another beautiful outdoor activity is at Jockey's Ridge State Park, where visitors can marvel at the tallest natural sand dune system in the Eastern United States. Alternatively, visitors can experience the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean from the Avalon Fishing Pier, where they can enjoy fishing, taking in the views, and appreciating the magic of the ocean.

Duck

Incorporated in 2002, Duck earned its name as the northernmost town on the Outer Banks, which is attributed to the popularity of duck hunting in the nearby Currituck and Albemarle Sounds. The Duck Town Park Boardwalk, stretching alongside the Currituck Sound, offers an opportunity for visitors to appreciate beautiful waterfront views and, perhaps, catch sight of local wildlife. Alternatively, visitors have the option to relax and have a picnic in the Duck town park. Duck is also great for a day at the beach and has been has been nationally recognized as one of the "Top 15 Family-Friendly Beaches in America."

Nags Head

Found in Dare County, Nags Head Woods Preserve invites visitors to engage in hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography, providing opportunities to appreciate the many ecosystems. There are a number of great places to grab a bite to eat, such as Basnight's Lone Cedar Cafe or Almost Heaven Bakery. For a historical and all-encompassing perspective, climb to the top of the Bodie Island Lighthouse. A beautiful experience with views of the Atlantic Ocean can be enjoyed by casting a line or taking a leisurely stroll along the iconic Nags Head fishing pier. Sports enthusiasts also have the option to indulge in a round of golf with ocean views at the Nags Head Golf Links.

Ocracoke

Found in Hyde County on Ocracoke Island, the historic Ocracoke Island Lighthouse, constructed in 1823, provides a bird’s-eye view of the island when visitors climb to the top. Ocracoke does a wonderful job preserving and celebrating the cultural heritage of the island, particularly thanks to the Ocracoke Preservation Society. Another outdoor sight that is worth visiting is Springers Point Preserve, which is great for bird watching or an afternoon hike. Alternatively, individuals can head to the Ocracoke Island Pony Pens to learn about the wild ponies that freely roam the island. Exploring the streets offers an opportunity to admire historic homes, including the David Williams House Museum, which was constructed around 1900, making it one of the oldest homes on the island.

Corolla

Found in Currituck County, visitors can unwind and partake in sunbathing and swimming on the pristine Corolla Beach, known for its wide sandy shores. Corolla is home to an abundance of other outdoor activities that are truly unforgettable. Visitors can go for a Corolla Wild Horse tour that provides the potential to witness the famous Corolla wild horses and explore the unique natural habitats of these wild Spanish mustangs on the northern beaches. When ascending to the top of the historic Currituck Beach Lighthouse, visitors will be able to experience incredible views and learn about maritime history at the Keeper's House. Birdwatching, hiking, and nature photography are recommended activities while navigating the Currituck National Wildlife Refuge. Lastly, the Whalehead Club historic mansion is a beautifully restored home that was first opened in 1925 and set along the Currituck Sound.

Manteo

Manteo, found on Roanoke Island, offers the opportunity to explore Roanoke Island Festival Park, an interactive historic site that depicts the history of the Roanoke Island colony and features a reconstructed 16th-century sailing ship, Elizabeth II. Visitors can also attend a performance of "The Lost Colony," a long-running outdoor drama that narrates the mysterious disappearance of the Roanoke colonists. Experience a stroll through the beautifully landscaped Elizabethan Gardens, which showcase Elizabethan-style architecture, statues, and themed gardens. Another beautiful place for a stroll is the Manteo Waterfront, known for its shops, restaurants, and stunning views of Shallowbag Bay. Additionally, one can experience the beauty of the Outer Banks from the water with sailing excursions departing from Shallowbag Bay.

Hatteras Village

Hatteras Village, found on the southern tip of Hatteras Island, has earned a well-known reputation as a fishing epicenter. Those who are looking to get outside will love casting a line in and spending the day fishing or exploring the unique coastal ecosystems by taking a ride on the Hatteras-Ocracoke Ferry. There are also guided tours ranging from canoe tours to bird tours. Hiking or relaxing at Hatteras Village Park will give you the opportunity to explore a maritime forest and salt marsh, where you can observe various birds in the marsh along the boardwalk. As you stroll along Hatteras Village Harbor, you can watch fishing boats come in with their catches and enjoy waterfront views.

Scenic Towns In The Outer BanksFrom famous Kitty Hawk to the wonderfully named Kill Devil Hills, take a look at the nine most scenic Outer Banks towns to visit.

These seven prettiest towns in the Outer Banks leave a lasting impression from the coastal attraction in Corolla Beach and the natural green space in Roanoke Island Festival Park in Manteo. Dive into the history of the Roanoke Island colony or take a sailing excursion in Shallowbag Bay in Manteo before casting a line in Hatteras Village Harbour. Whatever you choose to do, the Outer Banks is a place where history, nature, and community converge in a pleasant combination of charm and simplicity.

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