Nags Head

Full of history and abounding in recreational activities, it is easy to see why Nags Head, NC has been attracting visitors for over 150 years. OBX vacationers return to a Nags Head vacation rental home year after year for the beaches, recreational activities, dining experience, and shopping. Whether it is a romantic getaway or a large family vacation, Nags Head provides all the fun and adventure vacationers are seeking and more.

Nags Head Vacation Homes And Communities

Nags Head vacation rentals range from classic “Old Nags Head” style cottages to brand new oceanfront, luxury homes. These homes are located from the ocean on the east to the sound on the west. Our Nags Head homes provide OBX vacationers with the space and amenities they desire. Vacation homes in Nags Head are located within communities as well as in the Town of Nags Head in general. Each community is conveniently located near shopping, dining, and most importantly, the beach. Some of the amenities include pools, hot tubs, tennis courts, and golf access. Whether you are looking for tradition and history, or new and lavish, Nags Head has the perfect vacation home waiting for you.

Nags Head Beach Accesses

Not renting an oceanfront vacation home? Like to know more about the beach accesses in Nags Head? Click here to view the amenities associated with each access and view pictures of most accesses. Please note, the town of Nags Head is expected to start beach restoration over the summer of 2022. The restoration project will take place on 4.45 miles of Nags Head beaches in the southern part of the town. This area will span from about Jennette’s Pier near Mile Post 16 ending near the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. You can get more info on beach nourishment on the town of Nags Head website here or on our beach nourishment info page here.

Things To Do In Nags Head

Nags Head offers numerous events and activities to excite every member of your family. Vacationers can climb the historical Jockey’s Ridge, the largest sand dune on the east coast. At the top, visitors can hang glide, fly a kite, or just enjoy the spectacular views. Take a short drive over to the North Carolina Aquarium and learn about the ocean and sea creatures that live there. Those looking for an adventure can take kayak tours, surfing lessons, hang-glide, or parasail. The sportsmen in the family will love the close proximity to the Oregon Inlet fishing center and Jennette’s Pier. After a long day at the beach, unwind with a fantastic meal from a variety of locally-owned restaurants. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in the fresh local seafood and island-style dishes. Those looking for some retail therapy will enjoy the unique items found at locally owned boutiques and the outlet mall. Visit and see why so many make vacationing in Nags Head an annual tradition.

Featured Properties In Nags Head

Free Bird (5802)

  • 14
  • 7
  • 3.5

A short walk to the beach, a private pool, and beautiful beach-inspired decor. Located in South Nags Head, Free Bird is conveniently located near great local shopping, dining, grocery shopping, and more. A local favorite, Fish Heads at OBX Fishing Pier is just walking distance. The open-concept layout seamlessly connects the living, dining, and kitchen areas, providing the perfect setting for gatherings and shared memories.

South Of Stars (5951

  • 8
  • 4
  • 2.5

Located in South Nags Head, this Outer Banks rental is just steps away from the Junco Street beach access, allowing you and your family easy, endless beach days! South of Stars is also located just a short drive away from shopping, convenience, and more. As a guest at this Outer Banks rental, you'll have access to the community pool, tennis courts, and pickleball courts for your convenience!

La Cebolla (5700)

  • 18
  • 9
  • 8.5

Nestled on the pristine shores of Nags Head, this luxurious oceanfront rental is a haven of relaxation and entertainment. La Cebolla promises an unforgettable Outer Banks experience. Easy beach days await with your very own private beach access, making soaking up the sun, sand, and surf during your stay easy. Plus, with dune top decking, you'll be able to have front-row seats to the most stunning OBX sunrises.

Sweep The Beach Art Contest

March 1, 2025 9:00 am — April 22, 2025 3:45 pm
Kitty Hawk Kites has teamed up with the Dare Arts Council to launch the Outer Banks ‘Sweep the Beach’ Trash Art Contest in celebration of Earth Day! Artists will create artwork from trash collected from local beaches and sounds. After submission, the artwork will be displayed along the TrART Walk at Jockey’s Ridge Crossing. Art pieces will be placed on or around March 30th and...
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Fly Into Spring

April 18, 2025 10:00 am — April 19, 2025 4:00 pm
The Fly Into Spring Kite Festival, hosted by Kitty Hawk Kites, is a free, annual event celebrating National Kite Month and the arrival of spring at Jockey’s Ridge State Park in Nags Head, NC. Held on Friday, April 18th, and Saturday, April 19th, from 10:00 AM to 4:00PM, this event promises a day of fun and excitement for everyone. The festival is kid-friendly, family-friendly, and...
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Easter Eggstravaganza

April 19, 2025 10:30 am — April 19, 2025 1:15 pm
The Easter Eggstravaganza, Kitty Hawk Kites, takes place at Jockey’s Ridge Crossing in Nags Head, NC, on Saturday, April 19th, from 10:30 AM to 1:15 PM. Celebrate the Easter holiday with this fun, family-friendly event and exciting activities for all ages. Families can enjoy photo opportunities with the Easter Bunny with Jockey's Ridge in the background! Take your Easter Bunny Pictures with one of the most...
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Hang Gliding Spectacular

May 15, 2025 — May 18, 2025
he Hang Gliding Spectacular, hosted by Kitty Hawk Kites, is the world’s longest-running hang gliding competition, celebrating 50+ years of flight. This iconic event takes place at Jockey’s Ridge State Park in Nags Head, NC, and Jarvisburg, NC. The Hang Gliding Spectacular draws enthusiasts from around the globe. Each year, the event offers a thrilling experience for both seasoned pilots and curious spectators, creating a...
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Rogallo Kite Festival

June 6, 2025 10:00 am — June 7, 2025 4:00 pm
The Rogallo Kite Festival, hosted by Kitty Hawk Kites, honors the legacy of Francis Rogallo, the inventor of the flexible wing, which paved the way for modern hang gliding, kiteboarding, and paragliding. Held at Jockey’s Ridge State Park in Nags Head, NC, this family-friendly event offers an exciting opportunity to celebrate flight and innovation. The festival features stunning massive kite displays, filling the sky with...
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The Board Meeting

June 20, 2025 10:00 am — June 20, 2025 4:00 pm
The Board Meeting at Kitty Hawk Surf Co. location in Nags Head on June 20th from 10 AM to 4 PM for an exciting day filled with surfboards, skimboards, and so much more! The event brings together some of the best brands in the industry, including Reps from Sun Bum, Zap Skimboards, Hubboards, Rockit Surfboards, Oakley, and Hobie. This is your chance to learn about...
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Wright Brothers Kite Festival

July 18, 2025 10:00 am — July 19, 2025 4:00 pm
Celebrate the legacy of flight at the Wright Brothers Kite Festival, hosted by Kitty Hawk Kites at the historic Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kill Devil Hills, NC. This family-friendly event provides an exciting way to honor the pioneers of aviation while enjoying a day of outdoor fun. The festival features massive kite displays that fill the sky with vibrant colors and unique designs, captivating...
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Moby Fest

July 26, 2025 10:00 am — July 26, 2025 4:00 pm
Come to Moby Fest at Whalebone Junction and enjoy a specialty event with participating shops in the Whalebone shopping center! This exciting event features a scavenger hunt-style activity that takes you on a fun journey through the shops. As you explore the area, you’ll have the chance to win a great prize from Kitty Hawk Kites! While participating in the Moby Fest scavenger hunt, be...
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Outer Banks Watermelon Festival

August 1, 2025 10:00 am — August 1, 2025 4:00 pm
The Outer Banks Watermelon Festival at Kitty Hawk Kites in Nags Head is the perfect way to celebrate summer with Kitty Hawk Kites and Food Lion by supporting the Outer Banks Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Coalition at Enjoy activities (subject to change): Event T-Shirt Tie Dye Station (provided by Food Lion) Watermelon station Watermelon-themed competitions Watermelon Flip Cup Watermelon Bowling Watermelon Eating Contest Arts and...
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Outer Banks Pirate Festival

August 14, 2025 10:30 am — August 15, 2025 3:30 pm
The Outer Banks Pirate Festival is a swashbucklin’ good time. Kitty Hawk Kites hosts the annual Outer Banks Pirate Festival. This exciting event brings the rich history of pirates on the OBX to life, offering a fun-filled experience for the entire family. Learn about the legendary pirates who once roamed these shores and participate in Scallywag School, where little ones can test their pirate skills!...
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Outer Banks Kite Festival

September 12, 2025 10:00 am — September 13, 2025 4:00 pm
The Outer Banks Kite Festival is a vibrant celebration of flight. The festival is hosted by Kitty Hawk Kites held at Jockey’s Ridge State Park in Nags Head, NC. This free, fun-filled event attracts both kite enthusiasts and casual visitors from all around. It features spectacular kite displays, thrilling stunt kite flying demonstrations, and interactive, hands-on activities for all ages. Whether you’re a seasoned kite...
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Outer Banks Brewtag

October 25, 2025 11:00 am — October 25, 2025 6:00 pm
Outer Banks Brewtag is a one-of-a-kind celebration of flight and beer! Contestants will compete to see who can launch and fly an empty 1/6 keg barrel the furthest in this exciting and unique competition. It’s a fun, thrilling event that combines the excitement of flight with the craft of brewing. Admission is FREE for everyone, so gather your friends and family for a day of...
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Kites with Lights

November 29, 2025 4:00 pm — November 29, 2025 7:00 pm
Kites with Lights, hosted by Kitty Hawk Kites, is a magical holiday tradition held at Jockey’s Ridge State Park in Nags Head, NC. This free, family-friendly event dazzles attendees with stunning displays of illuminated kites soaring over the dunes at sunset, creating a breathtaking spectacle. The vibrant lights and colorful designs of the kites, set against the winter sky, offer a truly enchanting experience for...
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Beach Portraits OBX

The beach portrait experience with Sarah D'Ambra Photography provides Outer Banks vacationing families with fun and candid beach portraits. We (Sarah and Madeline) are a sister team of photographers who recognize the value in time spent together as a family. All families are welcome here, no group is too big or too small! Booking information can be found at: www.beachportraitsobx.com Instagram @outerbanksbeachportraits  252-423-1335 | sarahdambraphotography@gmail.com
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Blue Moon Beach Grill

Located in Nags Head, NC, The Blue Moon Grill is a quirky, fun filled dining experience for the entire family. Blue Moon provides southern comfort food, with a creative twist and flair. Their staff is very cordial and southern hospitality will always be king. They want your experience to be a “Once in a blue moon” experience. Let them surprise you with their...
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Bodie Island Lighthouse

Pronounced “body,” The Bodie Island lighthouse is located before Oregon Inlet on Hwy. 12 at Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Fearing that the 80-foot tower would be used by Union forces as an observation post, the original lighthouse was destroyed during the Civil War. Today’s lighthouse was constructed in 1872 and stands 156 feet tall and has 214 stairs leading to the top. Its...
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Cape Hatteras National Seashore

The narrow barrier islands of Cape Hatteras National Seashore are in a constant state of change. Tides, waves and currents provide daily, sometimes subtle changes, while storms can provoke more sudden changes to the islands.
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Causeway Watersports

Causeway Water Sports offers parasailing, wave runners, kayaking, paddleboarding, and dolphin tours. Whatever family activity you decide to particpate in, you can be assured that you will have a fun, safe and hassle free time. Their equipment is top of the line and all captains are fully licensed, insured, and expereinced.
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Farmdog Equipment Rentals

Farmdog beach services are designed to give you the best possible Outer Banks beach experience. Stake your claim to your piece of the beach with their umbrella or cabana services. All you have to do is tell Farmdog where you're located on the beach and they've got it from there. Farmdog Beach Services has got you covered and guarantees a fun and relaxing...
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Food Lion

Food Lion is a popular grocery store chain on the Outer Banks, ideal for guests looking to stock up on snacks, beverages, and everyday essentials during their vacation. This OBX grocery store offers a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, dairy, and baked goods, making it a convenient stop for all your cooking and beach day needs. You’ll also find a great selection...
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Island Limousine

Providing reliable professional limousine, taxi & transportation service to the Outer Banks of North Carolina including Outer Banks transportation from Norfolk airport, Virginia Beach and neighboring areas since 1987, Island Limousine brings dependable class and dignity.
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Jennette’s Pier

A stroll down the 1,000-foot pier invites reading the hundreds of plank inscriptions of past, present and future anecdotes about Jennette’s Pier experiences of others from across the country. In addition to ample bench seating, several welcoming and shaded exhibit areas break the 1,000-foot journey into enjoyable segments with topical exhibits for young and old alike. Besides family fun and fishing, classes will...
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Jockey’s Ridge Crossing

This shopping center has a collection of 8 unique retailers and is directly across the street from Jockey's Ridge. In the summer, check out the weeknight ‘Summer Sunset Festivals’ with entertainment and activities and ‘Kids Day’ on Wednesdays with mid-day activities that include kite making; visits from performers who appear in ‘The Lost Colony’; pirates; and always a special collection of kites flying...
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Jockeys Ridge State Park

Jockey’s Ridge is the tallest natural sand dune system in the Eastern United States. Located in Nags Head, it is one of the most significant landmarks on the Outer Banks, North Carolina. Park is open year round. Free programs are offered each season. For some, space is limited and pre-registration is required. Programs include: Sunset on the Ridge, Crabby Clinic, Kayaking, Birding on...
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Kitty Hawk Kites Air Adventures

From parasailing to airplane tours, Kitty Hawk Kites has it all! Experience the Outer Banks from a new altitude with Kitty Hawk Kites. Air Adventures Parasailing Soar above the Roanoke Sound and Currituck Sound while enjoying breathtaking bird’s eye views of the Outer Banks. Kitty Hawk Kites offers two locations for parasailing on the Outer Banks, Duck and Historic Manteo Waterfront. Learn More...
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Markee Fuller Photos

Markee Fuller is a lifetime Outer Banks native with an eye for genuine moments and specializes in family, couple, engagement, and maternity photography. There's a time and a place for posing and Markee believes that's at the beginning of your Outer Banks photography session, the rest? Pure moments between you and your loved ones. Instagram: @markeefullerphotos
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Mulligan’s Raw Bar & Grille

Located across from Jockey’s Ridge State Park, in Nags Head, Mulligan's offers unbelievable views from the second floor deck of the Atlantic Ocean and the historic Nags Head cottages. Take a look at their menu and daily specials to see what local seafood is prepared for the today. Mulligan's strives to offer the best local seafood, local produce and locally butchered meats. Try...
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Nags Head Pier & Restaurant

Fishing from one of our three fishing piers is a great way for novices and experts alike to experience the thrill of saltwater fishing. Most piers offer tackle rentals and you can purchase bait, ice and all the necessities right on site. Or, stroll the pier and take in the scenery for a nominal fee. Piers offer daily, 3-day and weekly passes.
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Ocean Atlantic Rentals

For 45 years, Ocean Atlantic Rentals has been providing visitors and locals alike with high quality beach gear. With options like bikes, golf carts, stand up paddle boards, beach gear, baby cribs, grills, linens,  and beach setup service, Ocean Atlantic Rentals has everything to make your OBX vacation that much easier. Corolla103A Corolla Light Town Center(252) 453-2440 Duck1194 Duck Road(252) 261-4346 Kill Devil Hills2001 S. Croatan Hwy(252) 441-7823 Avon/Hatteras40809...
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Oregon Inlet Fishing Center

regon Inlet Fishing Center and full-service marina is the home of the largest and most modern fishing fleet on the eastern seaboard. Located just 8 miles south of Whalebone Junction on NC 12 at the north end of the Oregon Inlet Bridge, Oregon Inlet offers a comprehensive fishing experience for the "old salt" or the vacationing fisherman. Allow their seasoned guides to treat...
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Outer Banks Pier

Fishing from one of our three fishing piers is a great way for novices and experts alike to experience the thrill of saltwater fishing. Most piers offer tackle rentals and you can purchase bait, ice and all the necessities right on site. Or, stroll the pier and take in the scenery for a nominal fee. Piers offer daily, 3-day and weekly passes.
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Outlets Nags Head

Outlets Nags Head is made up of over 30 popular stores providing apparel, footwear, accessories, houseware and furnishings.
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Owens’ Restaurant

After 66 years Owens' Restaurant is still owned and operated by the founding family. Owens' Restaurant serves the rich cuisine of the Coastal South, influenced by the provocative culinary flavors of today. Menu highlights are fresh off the boat - seafood and shellfish, Whole Maine lobster, tender aged Angus beef, ribs, pasta, and outrageous homemade desserts. Seasonal ingredients determine the chef's choice of...
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Sound Veterinary Hospital

Sound Veterinary Hospital was established in January 2020 by Dr. Blythe Hayes. Dr. Hayes and Sound Veterinary Hospital is dedicated to providing quality patient care and excellent customer service. Sound Veterinary Hospital offers vaccinations and preventative care, general surgery and dentistry, emergencies and referrals, and more.
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Sugar Creek Seafood Restaurant

Sugar Creek Seafood Restaurant is a family owned establishment where customers are sure to enjoy the view, service and most of all the food. Right on the Causeway, soundfront sunsets make the restaurant a favorite for visitors and locals. Sugar Creek Restaurant has two dining rooms and an outside deck with a newly remodeled gazebo for private parties, and the Sugar Shack seafood...
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Wave Watchers

Wave Watchers is a local beach equipment set up service that make your beach days a little more relaxed! With setup from Nags Head to Corolla, Wave Watchers features weekly tent, chair, and umbrella rentals plus so much more.
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ZoomAround Golf Carts

Cruise around town with ZoomAround! ZoomAround is a premier street legal golf cart rental company in the Outer Banks. They have 4 and 6-passenger cart options available for convenient, paperless delivery and pickup service in Duck, Corolla, Kitty Hawk, Southern Shores, Kill Devil Hills, and Nags Head; or free in-store pickup when renting in Duck. Save $35 on your golf cart rental using promo code ResortOBX when...
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