The Outer Banks of North Carolina is a string of barrier islands that stretches on for 200 miles.
Its beautiful open shoreline is decorated with a variety of beaches, historical landmarks, charming villages scattered throughout the area and phenomenal surf spots that have created some of the best waves on the East Coast.
You must experience all that the Outer Banks has to offer at some point in your life so let’s start planning.
The Best Time to Do an Outer Banks Road Trip
In general, the best time for a surf trip to the Outer Banks would be the fall. This is the perfect time because the water is still warm, the crowds have thinned and the waves are growing.
Winter months are also a great time to head to the area but this is recommended for more experienced surfers as the waves are booming with nor'easters. The water will also be frigid so make sure to pack a wetsuit and potentially a full suit.
5 Stops You Need to Make On your Outer Banks Road Trip
There is a wide range of surf stops to make while you’re in the Outer Banks but here are the top five.
Stop 1: Kitty Hawk
Kitty Hawk is a small but popular vacation town that is said to be one of the best places to live in the Outer Banks. It's known for its surfing, shopping, food and other water extracurriculars.
The Kitty Hawk Pier is the best place in the area to surf and both the north and south sides of the pier have intense waves due to the angle of the beach and where the pier sits. Here you’ll find a handful of booming swells and barrels but be wary of the winter months as the paddle out is treacherous. But this doesn't deter the dedicated who are known to jump from the pier to take a crack at the outside.
Once you’ve worn yourself out at the pier and you’re ready to call it a day or take a break, make your way over to The Black Pelican Oceanfront Restaurant and enjoy the bar, fresh local seafood, creative dishes, steaks, burgers, wood-fired pizza and vegetarian and gluten options.
Stop 2: Duck
The quaint town of Duck is located in the northernmost town in Dare County’s Outer Banks and is just 12 minutes from Kitty Hawk. If you’re considering spending a night or two in a spot then this is a great location to consider because of its relaxed, family-friendly yet upscale atmosphere.
It would also be recommended to stay somewhere near the beach for your early morning session as traffic and parking can be brutal at times. If you are leaning towards this, there are several great beach-access hotels and beach homes to rent in the area. Sanderling Resort is a highly recommended option.
So you have your place to stay, or maybe not, but now all that's on your mind is you, your board and the turmoil of the Outer Banks waves. High tail your way to Duck Research Pier. It is a fan favorite for the locals because of its heavy, structured waves.
To cap off your day in Duck, sit down for a relaxing dinner at The Blue Point for high-end seafood and Southern fare. There is occasional live music, outside patio seating, ambiance and an experience to remember.
Stop 3: Kill Devil Hills
Kill Devil Hills is the largest town, population-wise, in the Outer Banks but you can still expect a laid-back scene. Along with some consistent waves, Kill Devil Hills is also home to some rich history that is a must-see during your trip to this area.
The Wright Brothers National Memorial is one of these spots. The Wright Brothers are significant figures in North Carolina due to their achieving the first successful airplane flights. The memorial site to honor their accomplishments can be found in Kill Devil Hill.
Visitors can see a replica of their powdered glider and learn about their story through videos and artifacts. You can also walk out into the field of the site and retrace the steps of their first four flights and then make your way to the hilltop and see the monument with a side of spectacular views.
Once you’ve done some sightseeing it’s time to grab your board and go to the Hayman Street Beach access which is only a mile south of the memorial site. The parking situation is not ideal but here you will find churning and chunky waves that are worth the fight for a spot.
If Hayman Street is too crowded for your liking there is also Avalon Fishing Pier, half a mile farther south, which is a local’s paradise that has some decent barrels on both sides. It also has an offshore sandbar that produces long rides up to the shoreline.
Stop 4: Nags Head
Nags Head has visitors coming back year after year as a result of its charm. It is truly a vacation heaven. It has a plethora of places to stay, shops, restaurants, piers and things to do.
Your trip begins at one of the oldest restaurants in the Outer Banks known as Sam and Omie’s which opened in the 1950’s. It’s a charming beach shack that has a variety of food for every meal and is highly praised by surfers and fishermen for its breakfast before they head over to the next spot: Jennette’’s Pier.
Jennette’s Pier is right across the street from Sam and Omie’s. This is one of the oldest fishing piers and home to the WRV Outer Banks Pro surf competition, making it an extremely popular spot for surfers of all skill levels.
You’ll need to be aware of all of the swimmers that also crowd the water but if you’re ready for the challenge this is an amazing break. Both sides of the pier are reliable and provide consistent waves throughout the day.
Stop 5: Hatteras
Right on the southwestern tip of Hatteras Island, you can find Hatteras. Hatteras is a water-based town, meaning that it has a reputation for fishing, boating, paddleboarding and much more.
This spot is nature-orientated and if this is your type of adventure then I would highly recommend camping out at this spot. There are several spots to do so such as Cape Hatteras KOA Resort, Cape Hatteras RV Resort and Campground and Cape Hatteras National Seashore campgrounds. All of these have beach access which is great to head out for your early morning surf or, because Hatteras is the fishing hot spot, prime casting time.
There are several hidden beaches near Hatteras Village that you will want to check out for surfing but you will need a 4WD vehicle. Most of the beaches are small and offer a break past the sand bar where you can expect a slow, long ride.
The Bottom Line: Outer Banks Road Trip
The Outer Banks is a must-visit place for surfers as it certainly does not fall short in terms of beaches, things to do, history and places to eat. If you’re planning a trip to the Outer Banks, why only make one stop?
Visit a few of the versatile spots mentioned and experience all the area has to offer. There’s a place for everyone.
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