5 Fast Facts About Nags Head

Nags Head is one of the most popular tourist destinations in North Carolina (and arguably the United States). Full of rich history and gorgeous beaches, this historic OBX town is 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 Tourist Destination

image via OBX Vintage Scrapbook Facebook Page

In the 1830’s, 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 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 by Sambo Tillett, 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, there’s no surprise why it’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

3 // Home To Jockey’s Ridge…and A 70’s Putt Putt Course

Old images via OBX Vintage Scrapbook Facebook page

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. Did you know there’s a putt putt course located underneath of the dunes? In the 1970’s, 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 winds that occur on the OBX, Jockey’s Ridge began to shift and eventually overtook the course. The sandcastle you see today is the remains of the old putt putt green.

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

Old image via OBX Vintage Scrapbook Facebook Page // updated image via outerbanks.org

Jennette’s Pier was built in 1939 and was one of the first fishing piers along the Outer Banks. The pier was built for $6,000 and was 754 feet long and 28 feet wide. It stood until 2003 when Hurricane Isabel destroyed it. In 2011, the new Jennette’s Pier was opened and is the pier that currently sees millions of visitors every year.

5 // Bodie Island Lighthouse Is In South Nags Head

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