Are you setting your foot for the first time in Outer Banks, North Carolina? This picturesque cluster of sand islands depicts a spectacular medley between natural beauty, rich history, and unlimited adventure. If you are lured by the pristine beaches or the fascinating wildlife or are interested in visiting the historical landmarks, then there is no better coastal destination than the Outer Banks.
A Place Steeped in History
The story of the Outer Banks begins with a great deal of mystery and curiosity. In 1587, English settlers had settled in Roanoke Island only to disappear without leaving a clue which made historians give the haunting tag line "the Lost Colony." Today you can learn more about this tale through America’s longest outdoor drama, performed annually from 1937 till now.
The area’s geography later brought lot of pirates' attention that included notorious Blackbeard who swarmed these waters. With growing communities, fishing turned out to be the main occupation and its development into one of the leading tourism destinations known to everyone today.
Iconic Landmarks You Can't Miss
The Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kill Devil Hills is a monument to the place where Wilbur and Orville Wright made the first successful powered flight in December 1903. If you stand at this historic site, you can almost sense the spirit of ingenuity that propelled the world into a new area forever.
The Jockey's Ridge State Park is a clear example of the power of nature where you can find a huge sand dune that reaches up to 100 feet high and covers an area of about 420 acres. This marvel of nature has been drawing people’s attention for the past many decades, and thus remains one of the most celebrated sites in the Outer Banks.
Five lighthouses strewn about the coast each light up their own history. These iconic striped watch towers have guided sailors for many years and now serve as an invitation to people who want to have a lot of fun by going up their spiraling stairs to see the ocean.
Wildlife Encounters
The wild horses of Corolla capture the Outer Banks’ magic beautifully. These incredible beasts wander unrestricted on the northern beaches, offspring of Spanish mustangs that have been living on these islands for centuries. Organized trips provide safe and respectful way to observe these prized animals in their natural habitat.
Besides the horses, you have dolphins playing in the surf, sea turtles nesting on the beaches, and countless bird species soaring overhead. An outstanding place to get more insights about a rich marine ecosystem is the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island.
The fact that the Outer Banks are largely undeveloped is one of the key things that make these barrier islands so attractive – and this means coming into close contact with the local bugs and animals. No-see-ums, which are also called midges, are small flying insects that come in large numbers but are actually quite harmless as they form an important part of the food chain for other animals.
Spiders usually find their ways to locations near light bulbs where they can capture flies and no-see-ums. And palmetto bugs together with mosquitoes can also show up especially during the warm months. These critters have been here long before us, and still remain part of the authentic coastal experience.
Adventures Await
The Outer Banks is home to some of the East Coast’s finest beaches ideal for surfers, and hang gliding sport. Certain beach areas can be driven directly on with proper permits – you can fish from many public piers or check out local breweries with craft beers that are unique. Art galleries exhibit regional talent; unique boutique shopping and diverse dining options complement the overall experience.
Practical Planning Tips
Whether you have secured a rental home or a motel room, check your confirmation. Check-in and check-out times will vary by rental property or hotel, it is best to verify times before arrival.
There are plenty of grocery stores in the area to stock your rental kitchen. You can find popular box stores as well as many local specialty shops for all your needs and souvenirs.
Traffic will be heavy on weekends and holidays in summer, plan accordingly. Hurricane season falls between June and November; it is thus advisable to insure your travels.
What makes the Outer Banks a unique place is that history literally radiates through every lighthouse there, wild horses are still running free and the pace for perfect beach days is given by the rhythm of ocean waves. One thing to note; your first visit won't be your last.
