The barrier islands stretch over a hundred miles along the Atlantic Coast, connected by a series of bridges and towns that are popular tourist destinations.
There is no shortage of things to do along the Outer Banks of North Carolina, but determining where to do them requires some planning. Planning is important to make the most of your visit and do everything on your list.
Carolina Designs brings you the ultimate list of tourist attractions to be seen, all of which are easily accessible from their luxury rentals.
1. Historic Lighthouses
There are five lighthouses on the Outer Banks that you must visit: Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse, Bodie Island Lighthouse, Currituck Beach Lighthouse, and Ocracoke Lighthouse. The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse stands at a height of 150 feet. You can walk the path to see the original location which is a sandy beach that is now submerged, making it a popular spot for surfers.
2. Cape Hatteras National Seashore
The beach is a favorite spot for visitors who are seeking an eclectic sightseeing experience, from walking on the windy beach and looking for shells in the morning to swimming during the day and adventure sports in the evening. If you wish to relive your childhood again, slide your way down a sand dune or look for shells along the coast.
3. Corolla Wild Horses
Corolla is where you will discover the elegance and grace of the famous wild horses on the beaches. The Spanish mustang descendants run free and are sought out by photographers, painters, and writers who come to this coastal area to derive inspiration and spark their creativity. Seeing the wild horses is a bucket-list item for many people and is one of the most unforgettable experiences in your life. If you love to watch the wild horses running, you will require a bit of planning since the area is off-road. You can venture out on your own by renting a jeep, or you can take a guided tour with one of several companies that operate in the area.
4. Duck Town Boardwalk
The town of Duck is a walkable and bike-friendly area with shopping and restaurants galore. It is best for parents and their little ones and for those who prefer to spend more time marveling at the beach as opposed to the sand. The best access point for the boardwalk is at Town Park, where you can also enjoy nature trails and open green space. Walk the boardwalk in the evening to catch the most breathtaking sunset views in all of the Outer Banks.
5. Wright Brothers National Memorial
The Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kill Devil Hills is the place where the human flight was first achieved. It was here where the Wright Flyer lifted from the sands of the Outer Banks for 12 seconds before setting back down and forever changing the world of travel. Learn about how this first powered flight by Orville and Wilbur Wright altered transportation and see a full-size replica of the original Wright Flyer. The visitor center has programs, exhibits, and sculptures dedicated to this historic moment. History buffs must visit all of the exhibits and explore the grounds as they make their way to the First Flight Boulder marking the exact location where the plane left the ground during the first flight.
Conclusion
The Outer Banks is among the most versatile tourist attractions that house almost everything one could want, from pristine beaches and campgrounds to lighthouses and historic monuments. We have outlined the popular tourist attractions to be visited in the Outer Banks, hope you plan your visit soon.