Guide to Outer Banks Piers -

The Outer Banks is a paradise for beach lovers, anglers, and adventurers. One of the most iconic OBX experiences is visiting the many piers that line our coast. Offering everything from world-class fishing to oceanfront dining and live music, fishing piers among the Outer Banks are among some of the best hangout spots. Whether you’re planning your first visit or you’re a local looking for new favorites, here’s your complete guide to all the Outer Banks piers.

Avalon Fishing Pier – Kill Devil Hills

Fishing: One of the oldest and most popular OBX piers, Avalon Pier is a hotspot for catching Spanish mackerel, bluefish, croaker, and even the occasional king mackerel.
Food & Drink: The pier features a bar and grill with casual eats, cold beer, and a great view. Live music often adds to the vibe during summer evenings.
Vibe: Family-friendly with a laid-back OBX charm.

Nags Head Fishing Pier – Nags Head

Fishing: Known for great catches year-round, this Outer Banks pier includes catches of flounder, cobia, and drum.
Food & Drink: The Nags Head Pier Restaurant is a local favorite, serving hearty breakfasts and fresh seafood lunches with oceanfront views.
Vibe: Classic OBX experience with a welcoming, old-school fishing vibe.

Jennette’s Pier – Nags Head

Fishing: Operated by the North Carolina Aquarium Society, Jennette’s Pier is the newest pier on the Outer Banks. Rebuilt in 2011 after Hurricane Isabel, it’s ideal for serious anglers and beginners alike. Jennette’s Pier offers educational programs and tackle rentals.
Food & Drink: Jenentte’s Pier offers small snacks inside the gift shop, but the focus at this Outer Banks pier is on the fishing and family-friendly exhibits.
Vibe: Educational, sustainable, and very kid-friendly.

Outer Banks Fishing Pier – South Nags Head

Fishing: This OBX pier offers excellent fishing, especially for spot, mullet, and puppy drum.
Food & Drink: Fish Heads Bar & Grill is the main event of Outer Banks Fishing Pier. Famous for its 50-cent shrimp happy hour, live music, and ice-cold brews with oceanfront seating, it’s the ultimate hangout spot for locals and visitors alike.
Vibe: Lively and fun, with a great local crowd and relaxed energy.

Rodanthe Pier – Rodanthe

Fishing: A peaceful spot with a loyal following. Expect to catch bluefish, pompano, and sea mullet at Rodanthe Pier.
Food & Drink: A small snack bar is available with cold drinks and snacks.
Vibe: Quiet and scenic; perfect for a relaxed fishing day or sunset stroll.

Avon Pier – Avon

Fishing: A popular pier for catching citation-sized red drum and cobia.
Food & Drink: Snacks and drinks are available at the pier house.
Vibe: Family-oriented and popular among seasoned OBX anglers.

Tips for Visiting Outer Banks Piers

Most piers charge a small fee for walking and a separate fee for fishing. Head to each individual pier’s website for more info.
Bring sunscreen, a camera, and get ready to make some memories.
Fishing licenses are usually not needed when fishing from a pier—most are covered under a blanket license, but again, head to each pier’s website for more information.

Plan Your Outer Banks Pier Tour

With each pier offering a different vibe, you can decide which pier best suits your needs. Some piers are solely centered on fishing, others on socializing with great food, drinks, and music. Whether you’re reeling in a trophy fish, grabbing shrimp at happy hour, or simply soaking in the salty breeze, the Outer Banks piers offer something for everyone.

Pro Tip: Planning to spend the whole day at the beach? Check out Avalon, Nags Head, and Outer Banks Piers. Each has a restaurant right on the pier, so you can take a break from the sun and enjoy a meal or a cold drink without leaving the beach.