Explore the

Outer Banks

The Outer Banks, a narrow 200-mile chain of barrier islands off the east coast includes Currituck Banks, Bodie Island (Duck, Nags Head, and Kitty Hawk) Roanoke Island, Hatteras Island, and Ocracoke Island. Their open-sea beaches, surfing, state parks, and shipwreck diving sites make them a popular holiday destination.

Discover More about the Outer Banks of North Carolina.

Corolla Wild Horses

Take a drive on the beach and experience a truly remarkable encounter with the area's most beloved residents, the Wild Colonial Spanish Mustangs. Roaming the Outer Banks for centuries, these wild creatures are amazing to watch. This area is only accessible by four wheel drive vehicles.

Ocracoke Island

Located on the southernmost tip of the Outer Banks, Ocracoke Island is a secluded paradise barely touched by the world. With miles of pristine beaches, visitors enjoy sailing, sea kayaking, and incredible fishing. Or take a walk through the historic and quaint Ocracoke Village.

Wright Brothers National Memorial

Embark on a journey through the lives of Orville and Wilbur Wright, exploring their characters and the methods they used that led to their first flight in1903. View the reproduction 1903 Wright Flyer, the history making flyer of the their first flight. Enjoy exhibits on aviation and interactive activities.

Hatteras Lighthouses

There are three historic lighthouses located in the park. The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, Bodie Island Lighthouse, and the Ocracoke Island Lighthouse. The Cape Hatteras and Bodie Island Lighthouse allow self-guided climbs and offer a unique experience and great views.

Fishing Paradise

The Outer Banks is a sport fisherman’s paradise with some of the best waters in the world. Brackish fishing, fly fishing, offshore and inshore charter fishing, sound and head boat fishing, surf and pier fishing – all with the season continuing throughout the year.

Fort Raleigh National Historic Site

Explore the historic site of the first English settlement and doomed “lost colonists” who disappeared over 400 years ago, and whose fate still remains a mystery. View excavated artifacts and the "resting place" of the original 1580s fort, experience interpretive programs, and walk the nature trail.

Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum

The Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum is a maritime museum that focuses on the maritime history and shipwrecks of the Outer Banks of North Carolina. It offers programming year round for people of all ages. Daily offerings include a family and youth-friendly scavenger hunt.

Roanoke Island Festival Park

An interactive attraction that celebrates the first English settlement in America and 400 years of history. Climb aboard the Elizabeth II, a replica ship from the Roanoke Voyage of 1585. Visit the Settlement Site and enjoy woodworking and games. Discover an American Indian Town and Fossil Pit.