32 Best & Fun Things To Do In Nags Head, NC

Are you planning a trip to Nags Head, North Carolina, and looking for fun activities to make your trip memorable? Look no further! You’re at the right place, as we’ll be exploring the 32 best and fun things to do in Nags Head, NC, making your trip interesting.

Nestled on the picturesque Outer Banks, Nags Head, North Carolina, is a true coastal paradise that offers a wealth of experiences for visitors and residents alike. This beautiful coastal town is a haven of beauty, history, and recreation.

With a landscape that ranges from pristine beaches to historical landmarks, Nags Head offers an abundance of activities for every kind of traveller.  Explore Jockey’s Ridge State Park, visit Jennette’s Pier, and have fun with your family at First Flight Adventure Park.

32 Best and Fun Things To Do In Nags Head, NC (2024)

1. Jockey’s Ridge State Park

Jockey’s Ridge State Park is a remarkable natural wonder and the perfect starting point for your Nags Head adventure.

Located in Dare County in the Outer Banks, this 427-acre park boasts the distinction of being the tallest natural sand dune system on the entire eastern seaboard of the United States.

This park provides an ideal location for numerous outdoor activities such as kite flying, gliding, picnicking, and watching sunsets.

As one of the fun things to do in Nags Head, visitors can explore the miles of hiking trails that wind through the sand dunes, have a picnic, enjoy the kayak or boat launches, or try hang gliding, kite surfing, and sandboarding.

Address: 300 W Carolista Drive, Nags Head, NC 27959, United States

2. Nags Head Beaches

One of the fun things to do in Nags Head, NC, is to escape the summer heat at Nags Head Beaches, the ultimate playground for fun-loving tourists.

With miles of pristine shoreline, rolling dunes, and dolphins playing in the glistening water, Nags Head Beaches are a perfect destination for beach lovers.

On any given summer day, visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, beachcombing the shoreline for treasures like seashells and interesting marine life, and sandcastle building along the shore.

Address: 2919 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC 27959, United States

3. Bodie Island Lighthouse

Just a short drive south of Nags Head is the historic Bodie Island Lighthouse, one of the must-visit attractions in Nags Head.

Built in 1872, this iconic structure is the third that has stood in this vicinity to provide navigational aid to ships out at sea. Standing at 165 feet tall with 214 steps that spiral to the top, the Bodie Island Lighthouse with its distinctive black and white stripes has been a major attraction in the Outer Banks.

On your visit, climb to the top for a panoramic view of the Outer Banks, as the lighthouse is open seasonally for public tours.

You can also explore the visitor center to learn about the history of the lighthouse and its significance in maritime navigation.

Address: 8210 Bodie Island Lighthouse Road, Nags Head, NC 27959, United States

4. Kitty Hawk Kites

One of the fun outdoor activities to do in Nags Head is to seek adventure at Kitty Hawk Kites. This adventure company provides a gateway to outdoor activities, from hang gliding and kite flying to stand-up paddleboarding.

Kitty Hawk Kites offers hang gliding lessons, making it one of the premier hang gliding destinations on the East Coast. Beginners can take tandem flights with experienced instructors, making this exhilarating experience accessible to all.

If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable adventure, sign up for a lesson to learn the basics of hang gliding.

Address: 302 W Carolista Drive, Nags Head, NC 27959, United States

5. Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge

About 22 minutes from Nags Head, exploring the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge is one of the best things to do in Nags Head for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.

Established in 1938, this 5,834-acre refuge is a haven for more than 370 species of birds, including winter birds such as the greater snow geese and other migratory waterfowl, shorebirds, wading birds, raptors, and neotropical migrants.

It also provides habitat and protection for endangered species such as loggerhead sea turtles.

Visitors can explore the natural trails and boardwalks that wind through the refuge, allowing them to get up close to the diverse flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for shorebirds, waterfowl, and raptors.

Address: 14500 North Carolina Hwy 12, Rodanthe, NC 27968, United States

6. Wright Brothers National Memorial

Less than 10 minutes from Nags Head, the Wright Brother National Memorial is one of the must-see attractions near Nags Head.

This historic landmark commemorates the first successful and sustained heavier-than-air-powered flight by the famous Wright Brothers in 1903. A 60-foot-tall granite monument built in the area commemorates the achievements of the Wright brothers.

There is also a National Park, which features well-manicured grounds with big and small markers indicating successful launching and landing points, a visitors’ center, and a cluster of museums and exhibits that celebrate the last century of flight and beyond.

Exploring the Wright Brothers National Memorial is an afternoon trip that is one of the unique things to do near Nags Head, North Carolina.

Address: 1000 N Croatan Hwy, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948, United States

7. Fishing Charters

Nags Head is renowned for its exceptional fishing opportunities; there’s no better way to experience them than by booking a fishing charter.

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a novice, these charters provide an excellent chance to catch a variety of fish. The charter can take you offshore for a deep-sea fishing adventure where you can reel in trophy fish like marlin, tuna, and mahi-mahi.

Interestingly, many charters offer family-friendly trips, making it a great opportunity to introduce kids to the joys of fishing.

8. Nags Head Woods Ecological Preserve

One of the fun things to do in Nags Head for nature lovers is to explore the Nags Head Woods Ecological Preserve, one of the largest remaining maritime forests on the East Coast.

This 1,400-acre ecological preserve protects a remarkable range of unique habitats, including forested dunes, interdune ponds, marshes, and wetlands.

Visitors can explore the network of trails that wind through the woods, providing excellent opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.

Address: 701 Ocean Acres Drive, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948, United States

Are you exploring other attractions near Nags Head? Why not check out some fun things to do in Corolla, NC, and fun things to do in Duck, NC?

9. Jennette’s Pier

Built in 1939, Jennette’s Pier is the oldest fishing pier on the Outer Banks and one of the most popular attractions in Nags Head. Measuring 1000 feet in length, Jennette’s Pier is also the longest pier in the Outer Banks.

The pier is an excellent destination for fishing and sightseeing. The pier house also houses several large aquariums and a handful of educational exhibits, meeting facilities, a snack bar and tackle shop, and a host of other displays and features for good family fun.

Address: 7223 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC 27959, United States

10. Full Throttle Speedway

One of the family-friendly things to do in Nags Head is to enjoy a fun-filled day of go-karting at Full Throttle Speedway.

This go-kart racing track offers gas-powered, indy-style go-karts on two exciting tracks that can race up to 20 karts at a time. They also have a Super Sea Track for junior racers to put their abilities to the test.

Beyond racing, this establishment also offers a variety of track fare, from ice cream to snowballs, cotton candy, and many more.

Address: 6504 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC 27959, United States

11. Jurassic Putt

Exploring Jurassic Putt is one of the many fun things to do in Nags Head, NC, with kids. This mini-golf course with a dinosaur theme caters to both adults and children.

This facility features an 18-hole mini-golf course amidst the shadow of T-Rex and Raptor dinosaurs. It also features a tropical landscape and a playful approach to putt-putt.

Whether you need an outlet for your competitive spirit or are just looking for a fun way to entertain the family, Jurassic Putt has something for everyone.

Address: 6926 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC 27959, United States

12. Dowdy Park

Dowdy Park is a popular destination for relaxation, play, and family entertainment in Nags Head.

Sitting on 5 acres, Dowdy Park features an amphitheater, a fitness trail, an inclusive playground for kids, basketball and pickleball courts, a bocce area, a farmer’s market, and fitness classes.

The park holds a farmer’s market on the second Thursday of each month between June and October.

Address: 3005 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC 27959, United States

13. Seaside Art Gallery

One of the unique things to do in Nags Head, NC, for art enthusiasts is to explore the Seaside Art Gallery. Established in 1961, this art gallery collects and showcases the finest artists in North Carolina and around the world.

Popular as one of the largest privately owned galleries in the Southeast, the Seaside Art Gallery has 12 rooms of original fine art featuring a varying collection of art from artists around the world.

Among the collections at the gallery are paintings, animation art, etchings, sculptures, and the Old Master, which are shown in a manner that allows each work to be viewed in a beautiful space.

Address: 2716 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC 27959, United States

14. The Lost Colony

Just 20 minutes from Nags Head, stepping back in time and experiencing the history of the Outer Banks at The Lost Colony is one of the fun things to do near Nags Head, NC, at night.

Established in 1937, this outdoor drama and play tells the story of the first English colony in America and its mysterious disappearance. The play is performed at the Waterside Theatre on Roanoke Island, providing an immersive historical experience.

On your visit, explore the interactive exhibits and displays at the Waterside Theatre’s visitor center.

Address: 1409 National Park Drive, Manteo, NC 27954, United States

15. Nags Head Golf Links

Established in 1986, Nags Head Golf Links is an 18-hole championship private golf course conveniently located in Outer Banks, North Carolina.

This Bob Moore-designed golf course is enjoyable for both seasoned and novice players. The meticulously manicured greens and Bermuda fairways complement the landscape and remain in good playing condition year-round.

Rated as one of the top public golf courses in the Outer Banks, the club features a beautiful 6,126-yard Par 71 championship course and a beautiful clubhouse equipped with a full-service restaurant and bar.

Add the Nags Head Golf Links to your bucket list of things to do in Valdosta, GA, this weekend.

Address: 5615 S Seachase Drive, Nags Head, NC 27959, United States

16. First Flight Adventure Park

Among the many fun outdoor activities to do in Nags Head is to experience an unusual adventure at First Flight Adventure Park. This adventure park is designed to cater to thrill-seekers of varying skill levels and ages.

This park boasts over 50 obstacles and 14 ziplines up to 50 feet in the air. The platforms are installed on utility poles, and the obstacles are designed around a beach theme using ropes, cables, wood, barrels, stir-ups, and hammocks.

From the peak, you can have a panoramic view of the ocean, sound, and marsh. Guides are also available to take care of climbers and ensure safety for everyone.

Address: 6716 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC 27959, United States

17. OBX Bowling

One of the fun things to do in Nags Head, NC, tonight is to experience thrilling games at OBX Bowling. This family entertainment is a paradise for kids and adults alike.

OBX Bowling offers numerous lanes catering to casual bowlers and serious league players. There are automatic bumpers on the bowling lanes for kids.

The entertainment centre offers a variety of bowling formats, including open bowling and junior and adult league bowling. It also boasts billiards and an arcade with games like Skeeball and air hockey.

Beyond the lanes, OBX Bowling boasts a cafe where you can treat yourself and your family to some beverages.

Address: 200 W Satterfield Landing Road, Nags Head, NC 27959, United States

18. Tanger Outlets Nags Head

Shopping at Tanger Outlets Nag Head is one of the romantic things to do in Nags Head, North Carolina.

This shopping mall chain features a variety of brand-name and designer outlet stores. Among the brands at the mall are American Eagle Outfitters, Aerie, Carter’s Babies and Kids, Talbots, Gap Factory Store, Michael Kors, Sperry, and JCrew, among others.

Beyond the shopping, the outlets also feature dining options, allowing shoppers to refuel while shopping.

Address: 7100 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC 27959, United States

19. Causeway Watersports

Looking for a fun water activity to do in Nags Head? Then enjoy the thrill of parasailing or the excitement of a waverunner over the sparkling waters of the Outer Banks at Causeway Watersports.

This boat rental agency offers parasailing, jet ski rentals and tours, pontoon boats, tubing, dolphin, and scenic tours. Get a bird’s-eye view of the stunning Outer Banks coastline and famous sites.

On your visit, you can engage in activities such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, cruising aboard a pontoon, and going on sightseeing tours to view dolphins.

Address: 7649 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC 27959, United States

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20. Nags Head Fishing Pier

Nags Head Fishing Pier is one of the must-see attractions in Nags Head. As one of the longest and oldest piers on the Outer Banks, Nags Head Fishing Pier offers an excellent fishing opportunity along with scenic ocean views.

On your visit, cast your line into the Atlantic and try your luck at catching various fish species.

You can also take a leisurely walk on the pier to soak in the breathtaking ocean vistas or enjoy fresh seafood and oceanfront dining at Fish Heads Bar & Grill, located on the pier.

21. R/C Kill Devil Hills Movies 10

Just a 10-minute drive from Nags Head, catching your favourite movie at the R/C Kill Devil Hills Movies 10 is one of the romantic things to do in Nags Head, NC, for couples.

This movie theatre is the only theatre for the beach’s Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, and Nags Head stretch. It features multiple screens, digital projection, a 3D digital projection for certain films, rocking chairs, and a game room.

To see a movie, check their schedule and spend a few hours with your family to see the latest blockbuster release.

Address: 1803 N Croatan Hwy, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948, United States

22. OB-Xscape Rooms

Among the many fun things to do in Nags Head, NC, with family and friends is to experience an immersive, captivating, and challenging adventure at OB-Xscape Rooms.

The OB-Xscape Rooms provide an interactive and uniquely thrilling experience for families and friends to utilize teamwork and problem-solving skills in a fun and immersive environment.

The rooms are all set in different themes, with ten choices, making it a fantastic experience.

Some escape rooms on offer include Cell Block 4 Death Row, Cold Case Murder of Dawn Renee, Raptor Revenge, Rest In Peace Motel, Blind Tiger Speakeasy, Mutiny on the Lark, Meltdown, Escape the Lost Pyramid, Medusa: Beyond Medusa’s Gate, and Huxley Save the Future.

Address: 1 Ocean Blvd Suite 108-111, Southern Shores, NC 27949, United States

23. Roanoke Island Festival Park

Located in Roanoke, North Carolina, the Roanoke Island Festival Park is one of the popular attractions near Nags Head, NC.

This 25-acre interactive historic site presents the first English settlement attempt in 1585. The park features a recreated 16th-century sailing ship, living history demonstrators, a museum, and a variety of performing and visual arts.

Beyond the numerous attractions at the park, it also hosts many performances in the indoor theatre and concerts at the outdoor pavilion.

Address: 1 Festival Park, Manteo, NC 27954, United States

24. Dare County Library

The Dare County Library is not just a place to check out books; it’s a community resource with a range of programs for people of all ages.

With branches in Manteo, Hatteras, and Kill Devil Hills, this library houses an extensive collection of books, e-books, audiobooks, newspapers, magazines, Spanish language collections for children and adults, and meeting areas.

The library also hosts family-friendly activities, storytimes, and engaging programs that cater to various age groups, making it an enriching destination for all.

Address: 700 US-64, Manteo, NC 27954, United States

25. Elizabethan Gardens

Located in Manteo, NC, exploring the Elizabethan Gardens, a part of the Fort Raleigh National Historic, is one of the romantic things to do near Duck, NC, for couples.

Designed to entertain Queen Elizabeth I during her reign, the gardens encompass ten acres of botanical and sculptural delights in memory of Sir Walter Raleigh’s lost colonists.

The gardens feature an array of seasonal flowering plants, meticulously manicured shrubs and trees, exquisite Renaissance sculptures, and other unique Elizabethan features.

Address: 1411 National Park Drive, Manteo, NC 27954, United States

26. Jumpmasters Trampoline Park

Less than 15 minutes from Nags Head, seeking fun and adventure at the Jumpmaster Trampoline Park is one of the fun family things to do near Nags Head, North Carolina. This attraction spot is a beehive of fun activities for families, kids, and groups of all ages.

This indoor trampoline park features trampoline zones, dodgeball, slam dunk zones, a ninja warrior course, a battle beam, a pugil stick, a 3D climbing wall, and an airbag.

This amusement park also features OBX Axe Throwing, an exciting place where you can hone your axe-throwing skills

In addition to the fun activities offered at the park, Jumpmaster Trampoline Park is also a great place for birthday parties, family gatherings, team parties, and other events.

Address: 728 US-64, Manteo, NC 27954, United States

27. OBX Laser Tag

One of the kid-friendly things to do in Nags Head is to seek thrilling adventure at OBX Laser Tag. This premier laser tag arena on the Outer Banks offers fun for people of all ages.

This entertainment center features interactive, high-tech adventures. Visitors can play air hockey or injure one of the many arcade adventures, including redemption games, shooting games, driving adventures, pinball, and many more.

OBX Laser Tag is also a great spot for birthday parties, parties, and group outings, complete with cake and pizza.

Address: 2420 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC 27959, United States

28. Nags Head Town Park

Nestled in the trees, with plenty of space for all kinds of events, Nags Head Town Park is the perfect destination for family gatherings.

This park features a playground for kids, a picnic shelter, restrooms, a grill, and open grass space for soccer games or frisbee.

To make use of the park for your special event, you need to make reservations by calling the town manager’s office.

Address: 415 Health Center Drive, Nags Head, NC 27959, United States

29. OBX Horseback

One of the exciting things to do in Nags Head, NC, in the summer is to embark on a thrilling horseback ride at OBX Horseback.

This horseback riding establishment specializes in guided beach horseback rides. This adventure allows you to enjoy a beautiful casual ride on the beach with your friends and loved ones.

As you ride along the shoreline, enjoy the breathtaking views of the Atlantic, which could be the most memorable part of your vacation.

Address: Bodie Island Light House Road & NC-12, Nags Head, NC 27959

30. H2OBX Waterpark

Less than 30 minutes from Nags Head, exploring the H2OBX Waterpark is one of the fun things to do with family near Nags Head. This waterpark is a perfect destination for family fun and caters to adults and children.

This family-friendly attraction boasts an array of thrilling water rides, wave pools, and lazy rivers that promise hours of aquatic fun and excitement.

Beyond the splash zones, the waterpark offers more OBX vistas and venues to explore. For onsite shopping, visit Wright Stuff Retail and eat at Outer Banks Eats.

Address: 8526 Caratoke Hwy, Powells Point, NC 27966, United States

31. Mutiny Bay Adventure Golf

Another fun outdoor activity to do in Nags Head is to book a tee time at Mutiny Bay Adventure Golf. This beautifully landscaped, sound-side 18-hole mini golf course caters to people of all ages.

This pirate-themed miniature golf course is a day full of fun and adventure. It also features an arcade, ice cream, and beverages.

Don’t forget to visit the gift shop to purchase your Munity Bay souvenirs.

Address: 6704 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC 27959, United States

32. Whalebone Park

Rounding up our list of fun things to do in Nags Head is a visit to Whalebone Park across from Jennette’s Pier.

This nautical-themed park features a playground for kids, a pirate ship, shaded picnic tables, bocce, and volleyball courts.