Nags Head is full of beauty, adventure, and history much like the other 15 towns that make up the Outer Banks. Check out these places to see and things to do in our list of Top 10 Things To Do in Nags Head!
1. First Flight Adventure Park
Bring out your inner adrenaline junkie and take on the First Flight Adventure Park. Challenge yourself at Nags Heads’ newest aerial adventure park! With platforms ranging from 12 feet to 50 feet high and 6 total courses, there’s something for everyone.
2. Jockey’s Ridge
Learn the history and ecology of that huge sand dune you’ve probably seen a time or two at Jockey’s Ridge State Park. Once you’ve learned some of Jockey’s Ridge’s history, make your way across the street to Kitty Hawk Kites and rent a kite to fly on the sand dunes or browse around Kitty Hawk Surf for a new outfit or outdoor gear.
3. Shopping
Nags Head is home to Tanger Outlets with shops like J.Crew, Polo, Coach, and more. Take time out and stroll through the mall or visit some of the other amazing local shops like Secret Spot Surf Shop or Foxy Flamingo in Nags Head as well.
4. Galaxy Golf
Directly across from Bonnet Street beach access, Galaxy Golf is a fun mini golf course that the whole family will love. This outer spaced themed mini golf course features 18 different holes. Once you’ve had a fun round of mini golf, head over to the Bonnet Street beach access and cool off in the ocean!
5. Jennette’s Pier
Jennette’s Pier, originally built in 1939 is one of the oldest fishing piers on the Outer Banks. The North Carolina Aquarium Society purchased Jennette’s Pier and rebuilt it in 2011. Once just a home to fishing, Jennette’s Pier offers a snack bar, tackle and gift shop, and an AMAZING view of the Atlantic Ocean.
6. Go Karts
How about a little friendly competition? Nags Head Raceway offers single and double go-karts so everyone can compete! The soundside track is sure to captivate you but don’t get too distracted; its Outer Banks tradition that the loser has to buy the winner ice cream!
7. Fish Heads
Enjoy great food with the very best view of the beach. Fish Heads Bar and Grill is located right on top of Outer Banks Fishing Pier. With over 30 different beers on tap food choices like fish tacos and crab cake sandwiches, Fish Heads is the place to go. Did we mention 15 cent shrimp every day from 4 PM to 6 PM?
8. Nags Head Woods
With over 7 different trails to discover and explore, Nags Head Woods will provide hours of active fun. One of the most popular trails is the Roanoke Trail located right off of Ocean Acres Drive. The Roanoke Trail has a direct path to the Roanoke Sound and back which equals out to be about 1.5 miles long.
9. Farmdog Surf School
Learn how to hang 10 or paddle out at Farmdog Surf School. Farmdog offers surfing and stand up paddleboarding lessons ranging from 1 student to over 15. Farmdog will provide you a surfboard, a wetsuit (weather providing), and a shady beach tent when it’s break time. Farmdog also offers beach yoga and a fitness studio!
10. Beach It!
With over 40 public beach accesses up and down the town of Nags Head and the beautiful Outer Banks weather, there’s no reason for you to not get out and soak up the sun! One of the biggest advantages of the Outer Banks is the simplicity of a quality beach day. All you need is a towel, some sunscreen, a bathing suit and a beachy state of mind to enjoy and truly Outer Banks beach day!
This top 10 list only just scratches the surface of what all the town of Nags Head has to offer you on your visit. Now that you’ve seen this list of a few new things to see and try in Nags Head, start planning your Outer Banks vacation! Check out Resort Realty’s stunning Nags Head vacation homes and make us a part of your Nags Head summer vacation!
First Flight Adventure Park – Courtesy of First Flight Adventure Park
Farmdogs Surf School – Courtesy of Farmdogs
Fish Heads Bar and Grill – Courtesy of Fish Heads
Galaxy Golf – Courtesy of Galaxy Golf
The chilly weather that’s been impacting everyone has got minds wandering towards June 21st, the first day of summer. Sunscreen, sunglasses, bathing suits, and beaches are the only things that are on the brain so when the time comes, why not book an Outer Banks vacation?!
If you’re thinking a vacation to the Outer Banks is financially unrealistic, take a look at some of our affordable, but amazing vacation homes! Resort Realty offers vacation homes with Saturday check-in and check-out for as low as $27 per night per person! Take a look at some of our affordable vacation homes and start planning your summer getaway.
Saltaire (2600) – Duck
This soundside home is perfect for enjoying the first days of summer. Saltaire is only about 500 yards away from the beach access conveniently located across the street. The sound is literally your backyard so enjoy it and go on a kayaking adventure with the kayak provided for you in the house, just make sure to bring your own life preservers! At only $36 a night per person*, grab 6 of your closest friends or family and spend a week in Duck!
Dolphin’s Den (1878) – Corolla
Spend your first week of summer at Dolphin’s Den in Corolla! This oceanside home provides you with a little over 500 yard walk to the beach so you can spend all day in the surf and sand. With access to tennis courts you can stay active and still have fun in the sun. With a Saturday arrival and 8 people in your group, this vacation home is only $27 per night per person!
Nepenthe (7850) – Frisco
Discover Frisco and make memories that’ll last you a lifetime. Nepenthe is a 3 bedroom 2 bathroom home that boasts ocean and soundside views. With only about a 200 yard walk to the beach, there’s no reason you shouldn’t kick off your summer in thee sand. Nepenthe is also conveniently located within walking distance to dining and shopping. This home is a perfect price. With 6 people in your party, you’ll only be spending $30 a day!
The Sea Ranch (5476) – Nags Head
The Sea Ranch is the place to be to start your summer off right. This 4 bedroom 2 bathroom home has recently been updated with a brand new kitchen and floors to make your Outer Banks vacation that much sweeter. Situated between highways, The Sea Ranch is almost 400 yards to the beach, a short walk for a long, salty day. With 8 people in your group, you’ll only be spending $24 a day during you week-long visit. With all that extra cash saved, you can take advantage of the go-karts and mini golfing that are right down the street!
Margaret’s Sunrise (2962) – Duck
Perfect for a small group of 4, Margaret’s Sunrise has the perfect view of the ocean. Wake up early and witness the beauty of and Outer Banks summer sunrise over the sea. This oceanfront condo offers access to a community pool, basketball court, volleyball court, tennis court and more. There’s also a walkway connecting the condo to the beach so not hot sand to burn up those feet. Margaret’s Sunrise is conveniently located near shops and restaurants, and with only spending $50 a night per person, you’ll be able to take full advantage of that luxury.
In addition to these affordable vacation homes, Resort Realty also offers an EZ Pay Plan. With EZ Pay, you can break up the cost of your vacation into three easy installments! To show our appreciation to our veterans and active duty, we also offer a Hometown Heroes and Military Discount on a number of different homes for additional savings. Turn that vacation dream into a reality, pack your bathing suit, and celebrate the first day of summer on the Outer Banks with Resort Realty.
*Pricing per person is based on max occupancy of the home, which is noted in the description. Pricing includes rent, tax, and administrative fees. Additional linen services and travel insurance not included. Total pricing is quoted for the week of June 17th – 21st
Winter on the Outer Banks is something magical. Time seems to slow down but there’s beauty in the stillness. Most local restaurants shut down in the colder months so employees and owners alike can get some much needed rest and relaxation until the warmer, busier season kicks up again. However, when holidays like Valentine’s Day rolls around, it makes it hard to find a restaurant that’s actually open. Luckily, a few Outer Banks eateries do stay open all year-round and some even open back up for you to spend Valentine’s Day with your loved one. Check out some of our favorite spots for your Outer Banks Valentine’s Day dinner.
Nags Head
Enjoy fresh, local seafood at Basnight’s Lone Cedar Cafe. Lone Cedar takes pride in serving some of the freshest seafood and home grown herbs and greens right here on the Outer Banks. They even give you the option to bring in your own, cleaned catch of the day and they’ll prepare it for you however you like! Lone Cedar does not accept reservations so make sure you arrive at 4:30 when dinner starts to get a table and enjoy an out of this world meal with your significant other. Visit Lone Cedars’ website for more information and menu options.
Nags Head
Small, cozy, and quirky, Blue Moon Beach Grill is a local restaurant you don’t want to miss out on this Valentine’s Day. With their specialty being in Southern comfort food (like their famous shrimp and grits) expect nothing less than being treated like family. Blue Moon offers an exceptional dining experience at an affordable price. Blue Moon is open all year-round from 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM. Make sure you get there early to beat the dinner rush; Blue Moon does not accept reservations. Check out Blue Moon’s website for more information and take a peek at their menu.
Kitty Hawk
For a lighter fare and live entertainment, visit TRiO Bar and Bistro. TRiO hosts an immense selection of wine, beer, and cheese for you and your love to sample and a bistro menu of gourmet sandwiches, salads, desserts, and more. Visit TRiO’s website for more information on the eatery and to plan the perfect night out with your love.
Kill Devil Hills, Colington Harbor
This cottage style restaurant serves the perfect intimate background for you and your sweetheart. The Salt Box Cafe focuses on locally farmed ingredients, seafood, meat, and vegetables to give you the dining experience you’ve only dreamed of. With options available like maple glazed duck breast and grilled local cobia, you and your love will have the best Valentine’s Day yet. Dinner is 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Salt Box Cafe does recommend making a reservation. Call 252-255-5594 to make your reservation. In the meantime, visit the Salt Box Cafe website to see everything they have to offer.
Duck
This Valentine’s Day, take a trip to Aqua and enjoy waterfront dining that’s sure to make sparks fly with your honey. Aqua offers locally farmed ingredients, fish, and meat to ensure a truly local dining experience. Different selections of beer and wine are available to pair with your meal and live music is played while you dine. You’ll find options like Cornish game hen, seafood pasta, and much more on their menu. After dinner, treat your sweetheart to something sweet off of Aqua’s extensive dessert menu. Reservations can be made over the phone by calling 252-261-9700 or online reservations are available on Aqua’s website.
Buxton
If casual fine dining is what you and your beloved are looking for this Valentine’s Day, look no further than Cafe Pamlico. With fresh local seafood coming from Buxton’s waters, the restaurant garden, Hatteras island or the Tidewater Region, you’ll be no less than impressed with whatever you order. Cafe Pamlico also offers a variety of vegan, vegetarian, and dietary needs options as well. Cafe Pamlico recommends making a reservation. You can call 252-995-4500 or the front desk at 866-PAMLICO (726-5426) for questions and reservations as well. Check out Cafe Pamlico’s website in the meantime to see all they have to offer.
Manteo
This 3 floor restaurant will offer couples breathtaking views over the Albemarle Sound and appetizing dinner options that will make your Valentine’s Day sizzle. Striper’s Bar and Grille serves local seafood along with freshly made in house sides and dressings to complete your meal. Enjoy a romantic sunset over the sound as you dine with your loved one. Striper’s also offers catch and cook. You can bring in your own fresh caught and cleaned fish and Striper’s chefs will prepare it to your liking! Striper’s does accept reservations at 252-475-1021 or at 252-475-1022. Visit their website to view even more of their menu
Make your Outer Banks Valentine’s Day dinner special this year with one of these great, local restaurants. Whether you’re visiting or you live here all year-round, plan an Outer Banks get away with you and your valentine in one of our cozier vacation homes!
Spending quality time with your favorite four legged friend is a great way to spend any day. So why not go out and adventure around the Outer Banks with them too? Check out these spots you and your pup will enjoy in our Top 10 Places to Take Your Dog On The Outer Banks.
1. Jockey’s Ridge
Take a hike with your dog up to Jockey’s Ridge! Enjoy a nice sandy walk on the dunes. Just make sure you’re up to date on Jockey’s Ridges’ pet safety rules.
2. Snowbird Ice Cream
Treat your pooch (and yourself) to a sweet treat at Snowbird Ice Cream in Nags Head. You can get a milkshake, ice cream cone, or even a burger and fries while your dog can lap up a pup cup. Pup cups are vanilla ice cream in a cup that’s $2. With every pup cup purchase, Snowbird donates $1 to the Dare County SPCA, the sweetest treat of all.
3. Nags Head Woods
Keep puppy active by going for a stroll in Nags Head woods. With 7 different trails to discover, the possibilities are endless. Just make sure you bring plenty of water for you and your dog and take a break and enjoy the beauty of the woods.
4. Downtown Manteo
Historic downtown Manteo is the perfect place to explore with your dog. Filled with plenty of shops and a few pet friendly restaurants with outdoor seating, there’s plenty to enjoy and do. Take a stroll dockside and check out all the boats or walk the sidewalks and admire the architecture of some of the historical buildings.
5. Roanoke Island Festival Park
While you’re in downtown Manteo, make your way over the bridge to Roanoke Island Festival Park. Festival Park is a historical representation site of Roanoke Island in 1585. Although your furry friend isn’t allowed in the representational part of the park, there is a beautiful grassy area near the pavilion perfect for playing a game of fetch and a sound side boardwalk that borders the majority of the park.
6. The Beach
The beach is one of the best places to spend time with your dog. Wake up early in the morning to enjoy a beautiful beachside sunrise stroll or wait a little later and frolic in the waves with your pooch. Just make sure you know of the water conditions and stay informed on rip currents.
7. Wright Brothers National Memorial
Learn more about the first flight that took place right here on the Outer Banks and visit the Wright Brothers Memorial in Kill Devil Hills. Visit the monument and even see a real size version of the Wright Flyer. While you’re learning, your dog is enjoying a nice walk around the park. It’s a win-win for you and your dog.
8. The Sound
In the evening, take a sound side stroll at the sound access behind Jockey’s Ridge and watch one of the famous Outer Banks sunsets. In the summer, even when the sun starts to go down it’s still pretty warm and since the sound is brackish water, it usually stays pretty flat (meaning, no waves). That creates the perfect opportunity for your dog to go for a fun swim.
9. Island Pet Gallery
Stop in with your furry friend to Island Pet Gallery! Let them pick out a new toy to take home or maybe a new collar or leash so they can make a new fashion statement. Treat them for being a good dog and a good friend.
10. Kitty Hawk Dog Park
Enjoy the dog park in Kitty Hawk and let your dog play and even maybe meet a few new dog friends. A registration form does need to be filled out and you must present a current vaccination record.
Make your visit even more enjoyable with your dog and book one of our pet friendly vacation homes today!
The 2016 WRV OBX Pro started Wednesday Aug 31 and continues into the labor day weekend with the final day of competition Sunday September 4th. Our Resort Realty photographer snapped a few shots of opening day yesterday so we could share the fun and excitement with our Outer Banks lovers. The tropical depression that threatened us with bad weather earlier this week (but thankfully never touched down on the Outer Banks), brought a nice east swell for the competition. Today they are reporting nice waist high swell, which may increase throughout the weekend adding to good surf conditions. Temperatures are mid 80s this weekend so make sure to head to Jennette’s Pier in Nags Head to check out the pros in our blue Outer Banks surf!
You can catch all the action and watch a live stream of the surf competition here and you can also view the entire schedule and find out when you can “Meet the Pros” here.
No early morning alarms, lots of ice cream and plenty of fun in the sun are the highlights of summer break. While enjoying all the spoils of summer, remember to keep the kiddos safe while visiting the Outer Banks. Make sure they continue to have a fun and safe vacation with these helpful summer safety tips. Happy, healthy kids mean parents can finally settle down and relax too.
Getting caught in a rip current or rough seas can quickly turn a good time swimming into a scary situation. Make sure to check the weather report online or read the current conditions on the nearest lifeguard stand.
Also, make sure your kids know about rip currents, how to spot them and how to get out of them. Rip currents are strong, narrow flowing currents that move away from the beach, pushing swimmers further out to sea. The currents are so strong that swimmers begin to panic and become exhausted when they cannot swim pass the current to make it back to shore. Teach your kids to swim parallel to shore until they are out of the current and can swim back to beach safely.
When playing and sweating in the summer sun, our bodies need extra water to remain healthy. Make sure the kids are drinking water continuously throughout the day, especially when they are active in the summer heat. If your kids struggle to drink water, add fruit or fruit juice to their bottle for a better taste.
Make sure your young ones keep their baby smooth skin by applying and reapplying sunscreen while out in the sun. Use sunscreen that is SPF 30 or higher, water resistant and broad spectrum to protect against ultra-violet rays. Check the bottle to see when to reapply. It takes 30 minutes for sunscreen to really soak into the skin, so applying before you and your crew hit the beach is the best option.
Cool down by finding a shady spot to sit or rest while traveling around the Outer Banks or hanging out on the beach. 10 am – 4 pm is when the sun is the strongest, so bring an umbrella or find a shaded area like underneath a fishing pier to regulate your body temperature. Shade eyes with sunglasses and wide brim hats to protect those sweet faces.
Whether they are swimming, biking or exploring, use the buddy system. There is safety in numbers and a playmate is an added bonus
With lots of families on the OBX this summer, keep your family and others safe by using the crosswalks while on foot. Make your intention clear to drivers and ask young kids to hold hands with older family members for added safety. Move across quickly as a group so no child is left behind
Avoid tears and whining by protecting your little ones feet. The pavement and sand can heat up to boiling temperatures in the summer. Water shoes are a good way to avoid burns from the sand and cuts from shells or sharp objects in the ocean or sound.
If your child doesn’t already know your phone number, take some time to practice memorizing it with them before your OBX getaway. If older kids are out exploring on their own, add your vacation home’s address and directions to their cell phone or write it down on a piece of paper for them in case they get lost.
Even with a cooler, yogurts and other dairy products are more likely to spoil in the sun. Pack snacks that can take the heat.
Avoid itchy skin and insect related diseases by spraying the kids down with bug spray that contains DEET or picaridin. Citronella, lavender and eucalyptus essential oil sprays are a more natural option to help repel insects. Bugs are attracted to scented soaps, perfumes, hair sprays and bright clothing, so avoid wearing these items when visiting marshes or wooded areas.
Enjoy summer to the fullest by passing on and practicing these summer safety tips with your kids. Wishing you all a safe a happy OBX summer vacation!
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