Nags Head, Coastal town in Dare County, North Carolina, United States
Nags Head sits on the Outer Banks and stretches along the Atlantic Ocean with wide sand beaches and many fishing piers spaced throughout. The coastline features flat areas right at the water's edge backed by dunes that rise gradually inland.
The town got its name in the early 1800s from a deceptive practice where locals placed lanterns on horses to lure ships onto sandbars. This dark origin gave way to a fishing community that later became a destination for visitors.
The town remains tied to fishing traditions that shape how locals and visitors use the waterfront daily. You'll see fishing piers, boat launches, and seafood restaurants reflecting the deep connection between the community and the ocean.
Vehicles can drive on designated beach sections from October through April with a permit, making access easy during those months. Planning your visit during this period offers direct shoreline access for fishing and recreation without long walks.
Jockey's Ridge State Park contains the largest natural sand dune system on the East Coast with heights reaching 100 feet (30 m). The park attracts hang gliders and offers trails that wind through this shifting landscape.
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