What to do in Nags Head, NC

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Nags Head

Types of activities

Where to stay

Nags Head travel guide

Bodie Island Lighthouse showing a lighthouse

Oregon Inlet Fishing Center showing fishing, boating and a lake or waterhole

Oregon Inlet Fishing Center featuring a sunset and a bay or harbour

Jockey\'s Ridge State Park showing tranquil scenes and desert views

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What to do in Nags Head

Popular places to visit

Jennette's Pier

Fish for striped bass, flounder and bluefish or simply admire the oceanfront surroundings from this eco-friendly pier in North Carolina’s beautiful Nags Head.

Bodie Island Lighthouse

Climb the iconic lighthouse just south of Nags Head and experience spectacular natural views of Bodie Island, the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding areas.

Oregon Inlet Fishing Center

With a large range of boat choices, one of the eastern seaboard’s largest charter boat fishing fleets has options for all fishing enthusiasts, and non-fishermen too.

Nags Head Fishing Pier

After visiting Nags Head Fishing Pier, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Nags Head. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or seek out the fishing spots.

Jockey's Ridge State Park

Admire the tallest sand dunes on the Atlantic coast, explore the maritime forest and see the shallow Roanoke Sound body of water in this unique state park.

beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at beach during your trip to South Nags Head?

Outlets Nags Head

You can do some window-shopping at Outlets Nags Head during your stay in Nags Head. Wander through the beautiful beaches and seaside in this family-friendly area.

Full Throttle Speedway

You can take time to visit Full Throttle Speedway during your travels to Nags Head. Wander through the beautiful beaches and seaside in this family-friendly area.

Outer Banks Hospital

If Outer Banks Hospital is what brings you to town, hopefully you'll have a chance to explore more of Nags Head.

Explore areas of Nags Head

South Nags Head

While visiting South Nags Head, you might make a stop by sights like Bodie Island Lighthouse and Oregon Inlet Fishing Center.

Ocean Side Court

If you're spending some time in Ocean Side Court, Full Throttle Speedway and Mutiny Bay Adventure Golf are top sights worth seeing.

Whalebone

If you're spending some time in Whalebone, Whalebone Junction and Outlets Nags Head are top sights worth seeing.

Frequently asked questions

Is Nags Head worth visiting?

Known for its fishing and walking trails, finding awesome things to do in Nags Head is a cinch. Make sure to add Jockey's Ridge State Park to your itinerary while here.

How do I spend a day in Nags Head?

Start your adventures with a visit to Jennette's Pier and Nags Head Fishing Pier. Then, check out different parts of Nags Head for a quick bite and a little retail therapy.

What is the top tourist attraction in Nags Head?

Jockey's Ridge State Park is one of the top tourist attractions in Nags Head and deserves a place on every sightseeing itinerary of the area.

Is three days enough to stay in Nags Head?

You can easily tick off leading sights like Jockey's Ridge State Park, The Lost Colony and Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge with a three-day stay in Nags Head. On average, most travellers plan three days here. There's plenty to see and do nearby too, so stick around longer and head to Kill Devil Hills.

What are some activities to do in Nags Head with kids?

If you're looking for sights and tours for all of your group, take a look at these great ideas for what to do in Nags Head with kids.

What to do in Nags Head for adults?

There are plenty of things to do in Nags Head, with entertainment for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to Stop-N-Shop Beach Shop.

Are there free things to do in Nags Head?

In Nags Head, Jockey's Ridge State Park is a popular spot for anyone wanting to enjoy the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, check out the other neighbourhoods and green spaces, and ask for ideas from a local tour guide. It's a top way to explore the best free things to do in Nags Head.