5 Fast Facts About Nags Head

Nags Head is one of the most popular tourist destinations in North Carolina. Full of rich history and gorgeous beaches, this historic OBX town is undoubtedly appealing to visitors all over the U.S. and the world. Check out these 5 fast facts about Nags Head and learn more about this amazing Outer Banks town!

1. Nags Head Was The First NC Tourist Destination

In the 1830s, Nags Head was deemed North Carolina’s first tourist destination. Families from neighboring Bertie, Chowan, and Pasquotank counties would visit the Nags Head area and sell vegetables and fish to visiting families. Summer homes and hotels began to rise, and by 1885, 13 beach cottages were built on the Outer Banks oceanfront.

2. It’s Home To One Of The Oldest Restaurants

Sam & Omie’s opened its doors in 1937. Sambo Tillett (hence the name) opened the restaurant and was a local charter fisherman. Located across the street from Jennette’s Pier, Sam & Omie’s is one of the Outer Banks’ oldest restaurants. With good, old-fashioned southern breakfast, lunch, and dinner and the slew of local fishermen that frequent this little historic restaurant, it’s no surprise why it’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

3. Nags Head Is Home To Jockey’s Ridge…

If you’ve ever been to the Outer Banks, you’ve seen Jockey’s Ridge. It’s the tallest living dune in the United States. However, Jockey’s Ridge holds a secret. Did you know there’s a putt putt course located underneath the dunes? Earlier in the 1970s, an 18-hole mini golf course was opened near Jockey’s Ridge. Obstacles included a giant octopus, a pirate’s ship, and an oversized sand castle. Due to the ever-shifting OBX winds, the dunes began to shift. Eventually, it overtook the course. Consequently, the sandcastle you see today on the ridge’s horizon is the visible remains of the old putt-putt green.

4. Jennette’s Pier Was One Of The First Fishing Piers

Built in 1939, Jennette’s Pier became one of the first fishing piers along the Outer Banks. The pier cost $6,000 to build and was 754 feet long and 28 feet wide. Hurricane Isabel came through in 2003 and ultimately destroyed the pier. At last, in 2011, the new Jennette’s Pier was opened. The new pier currently sees millions of visitors every year.

5. Bodie Island Lighthouse Is In South Nags Head

The Bodie (pronounced as BODY) Island Lighthouse is located in South Nags Head. Built in 1939, the lighthouse stands at 156 feet tall. The lighthouse still stands today and is open for visitors to climb.

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