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!
The sign that you’ve finally arrived to the Outer Banks; landing in the town of Kitty Hawk! Known for it’s beautiful coastal reserve, pier, and local businesses, we’ve got the perfect guide
Eat + Drink
Breakfast
For Breakfast, check out Outer Bean Cafe! They have a lot of food options ranging from bagels, sandwiches, and even a wide array of juices! Even better, Outer Bean is vegetarian and vegan friendly.
Lunch
For some of the freshest North Carolina BBQ, you should definitely check out High Cotton. They offer some of the best BBQ, Fried Chicken, and Ribs, while also serving southern charm.
Art’s Place is another one of our favorites and is a must visit during your 24 hours in Kitty Hawk. Art’s serves up delicious burgers, fresh hand cut fries, wraps, and sandwiches.
Dinner
If you’re looking for a nice family meal, we suggest checking out Black Pelican or Steamers. Full of rich history, Black Pelican overlooks the ocean and offers lots of fresh seafood and delicious dinner options. Steamers is a full restaurant and bar, offering fresh Outer Banks Seafood.
Shop
Kitty Hawk is home to a lot of great shopping spots. Wave Riding Vehicles is the spot to check out if you’re looking for a new swim suit, surf board, or beach gear! Starr Boutique is the newest boutique in Kitty Hawk featuring the cutest women’s fashion and accessories! Plus, other great stops like Gray’s, Miss Lizzie’s, and many more are worth a visit!
Play
By chance you’re visiting on a beautiful day (but almost every day is beautiful on the OBX), Kitty Hawk pier is a must stop. Whether you’re trying to cast out a line or just stop, take in the sights, and snap a few pics, it’ll definitely be worth your while.
Another fun thing to do in Kitty Hawk would be to explore the canals and sound by kayaking or paddle boarding. Rental companies like Ocean Atlantic Rentals will be happy to rent you a kayak for the day!
Manteo, North Carolina is the prime example of a small, historical, charming town. Blending the beach vibes of the OBX along with a rich historical background is exactly what you’ll get in this charming town! Resort Realty is back for another 24 Hour guide, so read along and see how to spend a day in Manteo, North Carolina!
Eat + Drink
For Breakfast, if you’re looking for a quick bite in Manteo you should check out Island Perk! Island Perk is in Downtown Manteo. They feature a wide range of coffee drinks, delicious Smoothies, bagels, muffins, and more! Front Porch Cafe and Charis coffee are also great local coffee spots in Manteo. At Front Porch, you have to try their Iced West 3rds, and at Charis Coffee, their Cinnamon Rolls are to die for!
If you’re looking for a more of a traditional, sit down, and catch up breakfast, you should check out Darrell’s. Since 1960, Darrell’s is famous for their small town feel and good southern food. Try the pancake platter, it’s our favorite!
For Lunch, if you’re exploring Downtown Manteo, you should check out The Hungry Pelican or Poor Richard’s. Both are delicious sandwich shops that provide you with the best bang for your buck!
When dinner time rolls around, we recommend Ortega’z or Blue Water Grill. Both of these restaurants offer a happy medium between a family dinner while also offering a friendly dinner with drinks.
Play
While you’re in this quaint OBX town, you should definitely explore Downtown Manteo! Downtown, as the locals call it, has a lot to offer. Stroll along the scenic oceanfront, get an ice cream cone at Big Buck’s, or even immerse yourself in the history of the Outer Banks at Roanoke Island Festival Park!
The North Carolina Aquarium is also worth a trip. With brand new renovations, exhibits, and more, you may make a fishy friend during your day trip! Full of the history of the Lost Colony, Fort Raleigh National Historic Site is another great place in Manteo to check out!
Shop
If you’re exploring Downtown Manteo, you’ll run into a lot of local and unique boutiques to shop around at! Sisters in Manteo and Charolotte’s on Shallowbag Bay have the cutest clothes, accessories, and more that you won’t find anywhere else. There’s also Downtown Books, My Secret Garden, and more. Plus, the Christmas Shop is a must visit as soon as you get into the town of Manteo.
If you have time…
You should definitely check out the outdoor drama, The Lost Colony! You’ve probably learned all about the Lost Colony in school but did you know all the drama took place right here on Roanoke Island? The Lost Colony play is a summer tradition for visitors and locals alike. This show has been going on every summer since 1937, and is the “grandfather” of all outdoor dramas.
When you come to visit the Outer Banks, we’re sure you have your favorite go to spots; but have you every thought about spots that are off the beaten path? If we were leprechauns, we’d definitely consider these spots our hidden pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. We’re sharing some of the best Outer Banks hidden gems with you so get ready to make a list and check all 7 off on your next OBX vacation.
1 // Seagreen Gallery
This local art shop is one of our favorite places! Not only does it feature gorgeous and unique local artwork, but it has a garden in the back, perfect for taking pictures! It’s also by Surfin Spoon, one of our favorite fro-yo places on the beach!
2 // Nags Head Woods
For a breath of fresh air, explore Nags Head Woods! This large Nature Preservation offers many things to do (explore, bike riding, hike/run, birdwatching, photography). These woods has multiple trails, perfect for exploring!
3 // Outer Banks Aboretum and Teaching Garden
This quiet and secluded garden offers visitors a place of relaxation and visual beauty! The Garden is located next to Baum Center in Kill Devil Hills.
4 // Roanoke Island Festival Park
Festival Park has something for everyone! If you are into history, they have an indoor museum and outdoor living history interpreters that offer you knowledge regarding the history of the Outer Banks. The Park is also waterfront with areas to have a picnic or a trail to walk beside the water on!
5 // Canadian Hole
Located in Buxton, this sound side access is a fun spot to beach! This is one of the best spots for windsurfing, so whether you like to windsurf or enjoy watching it, you’ll love a day at this great local spot. If you have a family with small children, Canadian Hole is a perfect swim spot. The sound is more shallow, isn’t as rough, and doesn’t produce strong waves like the ocean does. So if you’re wary about your little ones playing in the ocean, the sound is a great alternative! (The water is typically warmer too!)
6 // Downtown Manteo
Downtown Manteo has so many options for exploring, local shopping, plenty of restaurants with a wide range (if you’re looking for a fancy family meal or a quick coffee run) and small town charm.
7 // Orange Blossom Cafe
We go for the location and stay for the Apple Uglies. Y’all! Orange Blossom cafe is located in the heart of Buxton and we’re telling you, it’s a must visit. Full of baked goods and great coffee, there are dozens of options to choose from; however, you HAVE to get an Apple Ugly. Don’t let the name fool you, these sweet apple cinnomon filled treats are to die for. Definitely one of our favorite hidden gems.
If laid back living on the OBX was blended with tasty frozen yogurt; the product of this collaboration would be none other than Surfin’ Spoon in the heart of Nags Head.
Surfin’ Spoon isn’t like your typical chain FroYo spot. Locals and visitors alike love “The Spoon”. Here’s just a few reasons why
The Coolest Owners Ever
Whitney and Jesse Hines are the big boss duo that own and operate Surfin’ Spoon. Jesse Hines; a name that all locals know and love is a former professional surfer from right here on the Outer Banks and Whitney is a surfer and artist that creates pottery. The duo decided to open Surfin’ Spoon in 2012 when they realized the OBX didn’t have anything like a cool frozen yogurt spot the couple visited while on a vacation in Georgia.
Money in…the ceiling?
One thing you’ll notice as soon as you walk into Sufin’ Spoon is the dollar bills and coins stuck in the ceiling. Any money placed in the ceiling is donated to the local organization, Surfing For Autism. Since 2013, SS has been able to donate $26,000 for this organization. A fun way to support a great local charity and leave your mark on The Spoon.
An All Inclusive Yogurt Bar
The one thing we love about Surfin’ Spoon is their inclusivity. Surfin’ Spoon offers ten flavors daily, that vary from season to season. From low-fat to vegan and non-dairy options, everyone in your crew can have their choice of something tasty! Plus, with dozens of different toppings from fresh fruit (to our personal favorite, cheesecake bites) the creative possibilities are endless. Side-note: you HAVE to try out one of their homemade ice cream sandwiches, they’re one of the best things we’ve ever had.
A Super Chill Atmosphere
When you go into Surfin’ Spoon, you’ll immediately notice the laid back, beach-y, atmosphere. Surf films are always playing on the flatscreen TV, and vintage photos, knick knacks, and more are displayed all around this cute little fro yo shop. You can even play a game of foosball, PacMan, or try your hand at the claw machine. We definitely come to The Spoon for the frozen yogurt and stay for the chilled out surfer-esque environment.
If you haven’t checked out Surfin’ Spoon, you definitley need to! They’re now open for the season. Surfin’ Spoon is one local spot you need to check off of your Outer Banks bucket list for sure.
The Outer Banks Taste of the Beach event is something that you don’t want to miss. You can take part in sampling dishes and drinks, and learn how to prepare delicious Outer Banks meals! With over 50 events at 20 different venues, there is plenty to see, do, and of course eat. See why you should visit the Outer Banks this Taste of the Beach weekend!
Events and Dishes for Everyone
The Outer Banks Taste of the Beach weekend isn’t just for adults; there are plenty of kid-friendly events, too. From the Shamrocks and Scallywags to the OBX Chowder Cookoff, everyone is bound to have a ton of food and even more fun at Taste of the Beach. For the adults, enjoy events that offer wine and liquor pairings with gourmet dishes.
Thematic and Crafty Culinary Experiences
Restaurants on the Outer Banks have some of the most talented chefs. You can find local seafood dishes you love, along with special events themed on global cuisine, unique to Taste of the Beach. If you’re looking for more hands-on participation, Taste of the Beach has that as well. The sip + snack + paint splashing experience includes canvas, charcuterie, and wine. There are themed meals throughout the weekend as well.
Enjoy Live Music
Live music and good food are an amazing pairing. With many of the Taste of the Beach events featuring live music, you’re bound to have a great time! From local artists to bands from different areas of the country, visit for your ears and taste buds to be satisfied.
Multi-Course Meals
Make an event of each dining experience over this weekend. Multi-course meals are available at each location, making it easy to enjoy everything the restaurant has to offer. Many locations offer multiple events over multiple days to make sure you won’t miss out. Some restaurants offer different types of dining experiences over the course of the Taste of the Beach weekend. Check the schedule and make sure to get the tickets for the events you don’t want to miss.
An Excuse for an OBX Vacation
The best reason for attending Taste of the Beach? A getaway to the Outer Banks! During the early spring months, most homes feature low off-season rates. Resort Realty also has properties that participate in the Hometown Hero and Customer Appreciation discount programs, allowing you to save. Now is the time to plan a getaway to the Outer Banks. Don’t have time to take a whole week off? Come just for the weekend with homes that offer partial stays! Enjoy tasty dishes and a beautiful vacation home during the Taste of the Beach weekend!
The best part of being on the Outer Banks is the amazing assortment of great, local restaurants. We decided to pop into Miller’s Waterfront Sunset Bar and Grill for drinks and a quick bite to eat. Let us tell you, we were not disappointed whatsoever! With great food, a friendly staff, and an amazing view, Miller’s is definitely an OBX go to.
With a vast drink menu and constant rotating beer taps, you’ll be sure to find something to suit your fancy. We ordered the agave margarita and the house mojito. Both were refreshing on a hot, August day! The Sunset Bar overlooks the Roanoke Sound and offers stunning sunset views and on a clear day, views of the surrounding shores of Manteo.
The Sunset Bar and the main restaurant downstairs have two different menus. Don’t worry though, you can still get some of the same dishes in both areas. For an appetizer, we chowed down on the Tuna Nachos made with locally caught tuna (trust us, if you don’t get anything else; get these bad boys).
The upstairs bar offers items like snow crab steamer pots, lobster rolls, crab cake sandwiches, burgers, and more. We ordered shrimp tacos and a power bowl salad with mini crab cakes. I didn’t know how it was possible, but the main course was even more delicious than the appetizer.
Miller’s Waterfront Bar + Grill also offers live music and outdoor dining right on the sound. Whether you’re a local or a visitor on the Outer Banks, you need to make a stop at Miller’s and enjoy some of the best food on the beach!
Rain. Wind. Red flags. Sunburn. When these unfortunate events strike on your Outer Banks vacation, we have the perfect prescription. Head to Manteo, North Carolina for some indoor fun at Jumpmasters Trampoline Park! We decided to do just that this past week — when the Outer Banks was inundated with rain for what seemed like FOREVER. No fear! We simply jumped in the car and took a quick trip over the Washington Baum Bridge to Roanoke Island to the charming waterfront town of Manteo to check out Jumpmasters. And we have to say, WE. HAD. A. BLAST.
Jumpmasters Trampoline Park features fun for the ENTIRE family! From the obstacle course and foam pit with foam jousting sticks, to the climbing wall, dodgeball area, and multiple trampolines for “open jump,” we forgot all about the rain!
ROCK WALL
Build muscle and hone your skills as you defy gravity and master your ascent while enjoying some rock wall fun.
NINJA WARRIOR COURSE
https://youtu.be/4NdJl3eQVO8
I don’t know about your kids, but mine live for the TV show “American Ninja Warrior” in the summer. So when they discovered that Jumpmasters had their own smaller-scale version of a ninja warrior course that they could try for themselves, they were pumped!
BATTLE BEAM
https://youtu.be/niolm61bfe8
The balance beam meets jousting. Only the lances are soft (and a bit more awkward we might add) and the pit below is full of cushy blocks of foam. So instead of perishing, you’ll just fall off the balance beam and giggle as you try to make your way out of the foamy pit.
AIR BAG
https://youtu.be/K6a4raFdwcw
Feeling brave but want the assurance an extra soft landing? Try out the air bag! This unique airbag landing area is just that…a HUGE BAG OF AIR. Practice your flips, spins or other amazing acrobatics, all with the confidence that you’ll land safely on a giant, inflatable airbag.
DODGEBALL
Just when you thought the long lost days of PE were done! The funnest sport from your childhood re-emerges…but this time on trampolines! Jumpmasters has a dedicated area to play this classic game with friends. The only downside is that once you’ve experienced trampoline dodgeball, you’ll never want to play normal dodgeball again.
TRAMPOLINES (OPEN JUMP)
Jumpmasters has trampolines on the floor and trampolines on the walls. The only place they don’t have trampolines is on the ceiling. Easily the most well known attraction of indoor trampoline parks, the open jump trampoline area is home to the best acrobats, stuntmen, and daredevils…even the smallest of jumpers can get airborne during Toddler Time, safe and supervised jump time each morning from 9 to 11AM.
Planning on checking out this super fun indoor trampoline park on the Outer Banks? Check out a couple of helpful tips before you go…
- Call ahead to check wait times.
- Buy your tickets and sign your waivers online.
- Arrive 15-20 minutes early to check-in, buy jump socks and watch the safety video.
- Live on the OBX? Take advantage of the locals discount!
In addition to Jumpmasters Trampoline Park, Manteo, North Carolina offers a full day of fun excursions for the entire family to enjoy on your Outer Banks vacation. Be sure to check out Roanoke Island Festival Park, The Elizabethan Gardens, Fort Raleigh Historical Site, and the NC Aquarium…plus several local boutiques and a variety of dining options (for the epicurean and the casual diner alike!) — located downtown along the beautiful Manteo waterfront.
Inspired by owner and operator Brent Johnson, a retired Major in the U.S. Army and certified Army jumpmaster, Jumpmasters is located on Highway 64 in the old Griggs Lumber site in Manteo. For more information about Jumpmasters, including operating hours and ticket prices, visit www.jumpmastersobx.com.
The Outer Banks of North Carolina is gorgeous. The beaches are stunning, the locals are friendly, and the food is out of this world. The one thing no one tells you? You’ll become addicted to this little chain of islands and you’ll always want to come back. If you can say “yeah, I do that” to these 10 signs, you might just be an OBX addict.
1 // You countdown the days until The Next Outer Banks Getaway
You and your family can’t wait to get to the beach, is it ever really too early to start your countdown?
2 // You’ve Reserved the perfect OBX Vacation Home
Which is a super smart move on your part because Outer Banks vacation homes book fast! (Plus, you can take advantage of deals and specials Resort Realty has in advance!)
3 // Your phone Camera roll looks a lot like this…
Because let’s be real, can you actually take too many pictures of all the awesome spots on the Outer Banks?
4 // And Your Instagram Feed Looks Like This…
Since you took so many photos on your phone, naturally you have to post them to Instagram to make all your friends jealous!
5 // You Can’t Wait To Eat Fresh, Local OBX Seafood
OBX Food Guide on Instagram features some of the best, local spots on the beach. Another reason to visit the Outer Banks and eat your way around town (and add to your Outer Banks obsession).
6 // You Spend Most Of Your Time Day Dreaming About OBX Beaches
And honestly, we don’t blame you. We have some of the most gorgeous beaches in the country, but we might be a little biased.
7 // You Have An OBX Landmark as Your Desktop or Phone Wallpaper
Seeing an image of the Bodie Island lighthouse or a picture of an Outer Banks beach can make your day that much better.
8 // Your Wardrobe Is OBX Ready 99% of the time
Repeat after us: if you dress like summer, summer will last forever…
9 // This is your mood when you realize it’s time to leave the OBX…
Because seeing the “Now Leaving Dare County” sign is super depressing and we know you want to turn around and come back.
10 // But then you realize you’ll be back to the OBX soon enough
And that’s enough to keep you going until the next time. Let’s be real, you’ve already started a new countdown for next summer, haven’t you?
Known to be the OBX town that has it all, Kill Devil Hills is full of rich history and local folklore that not many people know about. From where KDH got its’ name to being the home of the first successful flight, learn 5 fast facts about the town you know and love; Kill Devil Hills
1 // Kill Devil Hills is the highest populated OBX town
According to the U.S. Census, the year round population of Kill Devil Hills is around 7,000 making it the most populated OBX town. This number can jump to over 40,000 each week during the summer.
2 // No One Really Knows How KDH Got Its Name
Local legend and folklore have varying stories on how Kill Devil Hills got it’s unique name. The most popular story? It has to deal with shipwrecked pirates that came ashore and had barrels of rum that were strong enough to “Kill A Devil”.
3 // The Wright Brothers Had Their First Successful Flight Here
On December 17th, 1903, the Wright Brothers, Orville and Wilbur had their first successful flight in Kill Devil Hills. The brothers returned in 1911 and set a new record of a successful 9 minute flight.
4 // It’s Home To The Little Red Mailbox
Created by Eddie and Sue Goodrich, the Little Red Mailbox can be found at Glenmere public beach access. In the mailbox, you’ll find a notebook with letters and notes of hope from people all across the OBX, and across the country.
5 // Avalon Pier is the “Newest” Pier
With other Outer Banks piers being built as early as 1939, Avalon Pier is one of the “newest” piers on the Outer Banks. Many of the original piers on the OBX are long gone and newly renovated and reconstructed piers have taken place. Avalon Pier was originally built in 1958. Though it has suffered damage from past hurricanes, tropical, and winter storms, it’s original frame still stands and dozens of locals and visitors alike cast out lines daily.
