24 Hours in Nags Head

The epicenter of the Outer Banks, Nags Head is full of charm, history, yummy food, and plenty to do! Check out our 24 Hours in Nags Head guide and see how to make the most of your time in this OBX beach town.

EAT + DRINK

Nags Head Breakfast…

If you are looking for a quick and easy on the go breakfast, you should go to Waveriders! Waveriders is a local coffee, deli, and pub. With unique decor and a overall calming and relaxing vibe, Waveriders is one of our favorite spots. Their breakfast menu includes delicious smoothies, different types of coffee, and breakfast sandwiches (vegan options too)!

For a more sit down, relax, and hang out breakfast spot, we recommend checking out Grits Grill or The Dunes! Grits Grill has the vibe of an old diner, offering delicious breakfast food such as southern grits, homemade biscuits, speciality omelettes, and pancakes. The Dunes has been family owned and serving breakfast for the past 35 years. They offer a fruit bar, pastries, homemade biscuits, eggs, grits, bacon and pancakes.

Nags Head Lunch…

Blue Moon Beach Grill is definitely on our must check out list. This sit-down, hang out, eatery features many menu options that are sure to please. They offer delicious dishes such as Fish Tacos, Shrimp & Grits, Salads, and Burgers.

If you’re looking for a more on- the- go lunch, we recommend picking up a pizza from Nags Head Pizza Company. They offer salads and endless toppings for your pizza. They are also known for having pizza box quotes, which are inspirational quotes found on their pizza boxes.

Nags Head Dinner

If you’re looking for a higher class dining experience, we recommend Owens‘. Owens’ is a family owned restaurant that has been in business since 1946, serving the finest seafood, steaks and pastas in a relaxed but sophisticated atmosphere

We also love Pamlico Jack’s! They offer delicious food such as fresh seafood, salads, sandwiches, cocktails, diverse wines and a kid’s menu. Another reason why we love this restaurant is because they have outside seating, and also a dock that you are able to go on and witness one of Outer Banks’ gorgeous sunsets!

Nags Head Night Life

For an oceanfront nightlife experience, look no further than Fish Heads Bar and Grille! Located on Outer Banks Fishing Pier, you can drink and dine while overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Fish Heads has over 33 craft draft brews with Wine and Sake Cocktails available, plus, great happy hour specials like 15¢ shrimp, great fish tacos, and more!

PLAY

If the weather is nice out, there are a lot of fun outdoor places to explore in Nags Head! You should explore Jockey’s Ridge (also one of our favorite places to watch the sunset!). If you’re into fishing, you should go to Jennette’s Pier for a good fishing spot. Another fun place to explore would be Nags Head Woods, as you can go for runs or bike or just walk around and take in the nature. Also, if you have younger kids you should go to Dowdy’s Park, a large playground with lots of space to run around.

SHOP

When you’re in Nags Head, it’s a MUST to shop local. Home to many local surf shops like Outer Banks Boarding Company, Secret Spot Surf Shop, and Whalebone Surf Shop; you’ll be sure to find something you love! If you’re looking for a good surf inspired outfit, quality bathing suit, or even just a cool t-shirt to take home with you, definitely check out these local shops!

IF YOU HAVE TIME

We mentioned exploring Jockey’s Ridge before, but a fun activity you can do there is Hang Gliding! Kitty Hawk Kites is the largest hang gliding school, teaching students from age 4-92, and the only requirement is that you have the desire to fly. For more information and their pricing, check out their website.

If you want to learn how to Surf, you should check out Farmdogs Surf School to either rent a board or take Lessons! They offer Group Surf Lessons, Private Surf Lessons, Group SUP (Stand up Paddle Board) Lessons, and SUP Eco-Tours. To book a lesson, check out their website!