The Outer Banks are famous for their magnificent golden sand beaches and historical significance. These nine great activities combine the best of outdoor beauty with historical richness in the Kill Devil Hills area of the Outer Banks. Don’t miss your chance to experience them firsthand!
1. Experience the art of flight at the Wright Brothers National Memorial
The Wright Brothers National Memorial is the perfect place for history buffs and airplane enthusiasts alike. Founded to commemorate the Wright Brothers’ first successful flight, the memorial features models and actual tools and materials used during the historic flights. Additionally, the Memorial contains a number of monuments and replica airplane hangars to honor the Wright Brothers’ achievements. The memorial is a great place for a day-long outing for the entire family!
Wright Brothers National Memorial
Address: 1000 N Croatan Hwy, 27948 Kill Devil Hills, NC
Website: Wright Brothers National Memorial
2. Stroll through the Nags Head Woods Ecological Preserve
The Outer Banks is home to some of the eastern United States’ best scenery and Nags Head Woods is no exception. In the preserve, massive hundred-year-old oaks and hickories tower high above the forest floor and wildlife is ever present. The preserve is a fantastic spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty and ecological diversity away from the crowded beaches and bustling towns on the Outer Banks. Don’t miss your chance to venture to the Nags Head Woods Ecological Preserve and experience the unique forests and marshlands of the Outer Banks.
Nags Head Woods Ecological Preserve
Address: 701 Ocean Acres Dr, 27948 Kill Devil Hills, NC
Website: Nags Head Woods Ecological Preserve
3. Learn how to surf in the Outer Banks
The Outer Banks is the international surfing community’s best-kept secret. When most people think of surfing, they imagine big waves in Hawaii and California; however, some of the best surfing in the country is found on the eastern seaboard. The Outer Banks boasts a large number of great surf beaches, many of which are beginner-friendly. Rent a board from a local shop or take lessons from a pro, but whatever you do, don’t miss out on some great surfing.
Surf the Outer Banks
Website: Surf the Outer Banks
Small group surf lesson
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Outer Banks surf board rental
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4. Enjoy some laughs at the Comedy Club of the Outer Banks
If you’re looking for a place where you can sit back, relax, and enjoy some laughs while on your vacation, then the Comedy Club of the Outer Banks is the place for you! Almost every night, the Club hosts an hour and a half long show that is sure to brighten your day. Head to the show early to dine at the club’s great restaurant and then enjoy live entertainment provided by internationally recognized comedians. A night at the Comedy Club is the perfect activity for your next Outer Banks vacation.
Comedy Club of the Outer Banks
Address: 1701 S Virginia Dare Trail, 27948 Kill Devil Hills, NC
Website: Comedy Club of the Outer Banks
5. Climb sand dunes at Jockey’s Ridge State Park
The Jockey’s Ridge State Park sand dune system is the tallest in the eastern United States. The sand dunes are part of a unique and constantly changing landscape. A must-see sight in the Outer Banks, the park has three self-guided hiking trails, including a lovely boardwalk stroll. The park also caters to those looking for a bit more adventure and is a great spot for hang-gliding, kite-flying, and sand boarding, in addition to the plethora of opportunities for watersports in the Roanoke Sound.
Jockey's Ridge State Park
Address: 300 W Carolista, 27959 Nags Head, NC
Website: Jockey’s Ridge State Park
6. Dive into the history of the Bodie Island Lighthouse
The Bodie Island Lighthouse is a perfect half-day outing for the entire family. First constructed in the mid-1800s to guide southbound ships around the dangerous Cape Hatteras, the lighthouse itself was built and destroyed three times before the present rendition came to be. Today, the lighthouse is open seasonally for self-guided tours and climbs which give you the opportunity to experience the lighthouse’s unique history and beautiful scenery.
Bodie Island Lighthouse
Address: 8210 Bodie Island Lighthouse, 27959 Nags Head, NC
Website: Bodie Island Lighthouse
7. Camp and enjoy the ocean at Cape Hatteras National Seashore
Cape Hatteras National Seashore encompasses Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands and preserves the beautiful, fragile, and unique ecosystems of the Outer Banks. The seashore is open for hiking, fishing, surfing, and birding and is a can’t miss destination on your Outer Banks vacation. Hikers can stroll down the Buxton Woods, Open Ponds, and Hammock Hills Trails or climb the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse while those looking for some fun in the sun can enjoy the seashore’s sandy beaches with some kite-flying, kayaking, and surfing. There is something for everyone at Cape Hatteras!
Cape Hatteras National Seashore
Address: Cape Hatteras National Park Rd, 27959 Nags Head, NC
Website: Cape Hatteras National Seashore
8. Travel through a unique wetland ecosystem in Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge
Outdoor and wildlife enthusiasts can rejoice at the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge was established to protect the river’s beautiful wetland ecosystem which is home to red wolves, woodpeckers, American alligators, black bears, and a wide variety of waterfowl and migratory birds. The refuge boasts some amazing kayaking, a wildlife drive, and two scenic trails in addition to a number of interactive guided tours and nature talks, making it a great day trip for the whole family.
Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge
Address: 27953 Manns Harbor, NC
9. Step back in time at the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site
The Fort Raleigh National Historic Site was created to preserve and protect the remnants of England’s earliest settlements in North America, from 1584 to 1590, in addition to the cultures of the Native American, European American, and African American people who lived on Roanoke Island. This quaint park integrates historical, archeological, and cultural artifacts and exhibits with a beautiful landscape. The Fort Raleigh National Historic Site is a great way to learn more about the United States’ earliest immigrants and to engage with the cultures and histories of the Native Americans who previously inhabited the famous Roanoke Island.
Fort Raleigh National Historic Site
Address: 1401 National Park Dr, 27954 Manteo, NC
Website: For Raleigh National Historic Site
10. Play mini-golf at Professor Hacker's Lost Treasure Golf
Every beach resort town has its mini-golf. The one in Kill Devil Hills is well maintained and offers two 18-hole courses. The course offers waterfalls, caves, and greenery. A train takes you up to the top and then you play your way down. As there are two courses, it helps to ease overcrowding on vacation days. Young and old, the course is great for some entertaining hours. There are snacks and drinks available, as well as clean ablutions. It’s a challenging course, but even newcomers to the game will enjoy themselves.
Professor Hacker's Lost Treasure Golf
Address: 1600 N Croatan Hwy Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina
Website: Attraction Name
11. Fish, relax and enjoy the views at Avalon Fishing Pier
Avalon Fishing Pier is popular with locals. Get away from usual touristy attractions for a spot of fishing. The catches are variable, but you’ll certainly have fun trying. For the kids there’s a place where they can play video games, plus, of course, the beach is always fun. The pier offers some lovely views of the ocean and the Kill Devil Hills area. Fishing in the early evening brings coolness and some rewarding catches. Even if you don’t fish it’s interesting to see the catches. Take a picnic, relax and enjoy the seas breezes.
Avalon Fishing Pier
Address: 2111 N Virginia Dare Trl, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948-7947
Website: Avalon Fishing Pier
Kill Devil Hills: A land of history and beauty waiting to be explored
The Outer Banks is full of rich historical and natural beauty. Within just a short drive from Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina, the intrepid visitor can find enough activities to last a lifetime. Don’t miss these nine great places and activities on your next trip to Kill Devil Hills!
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