Year after year, travelers from across the map are drawn to the beautiful beaches of North Carolina’s coast. The Outer Banks have a way with sensational shorelines, stunning views, gentle waves, and even a population of wild ponies. It’s common for those that come for the first time to make the trip back time and again in the name of adventure, fun, and inspiring moments enjoyed alongside family and friends. While every Outer Banks destination has its own unique charms and landmarks, the overall appeal of this area isn’t lost on locals or visitors alike. In fact, this year, the team at TheDiscoverer.com named 3 Outer Banks beaches as part of a lineup of the 7 Best in all of North Carolina!
Corolla, Kill Devil Hills, and Ocracoke all secured top places on the list deeming these stretches of shoreline impeccable places to visit when beach-hopping is top of mind in North Carolina. The Discoverer team pointed out the highlights of each destination as well as the activities and views as combined reasons travelers would be right to want to linger on the sand at these locales. In addition to Corolla, Kill Devil Hills, and Ocracoke, The Discoverer team pointed to Cape Lookout, Shackleford Banks, Atlantic Beach, Wrightsville Beach as well as Carolina & Kure Beach moving south along the coastline.
The Endless Appeal of Corolla’s Beautiful Beaches
Situated on the north end of the Outer Banks, Corolla was highlighted on the list as a place that’s not only brimming over with inviting beaches but offers up sensationally scenic shorelines for visitors as well. One of the more unique aspects of the beaches in Corolla is the fact that they are accessible to vehicles, offering up a route where you can leave the road behind and swap it out for a new mode of transportation instead.
The reason so many visitors opt to put their 4WD vehicle to work on the sand is because roaming the beaches of Corolla, there’s also a good chance that you’ll encounter a population of wild horses. These thriving groups are believed to be the descendants of horses originally left behind by early European settlers. Some believe they’re the descendants of horses that survived nearby shipwrecks as Europeans scoured the coastline, eventually finding their way to shore and making the beaches their forever home over hundreds of years. There are ample opportunities for visitors to Corolla’s Beaches to book guided tours that provide an up-close look at these wild horse populations—another major draw noted in Corolla’s beach ranking on the list.
A visit to Historic Corolla Village is another draw that makes the beaches of Corolla absolutely captivating. Deemed adorable by the team at The Discoverer, Historic Corolla Village provides the opportunity for visitors to also check out Currituck Lighthouse where a sweeping view is available from the observation deck between mid-March and December. It’s pointed out that a trip up the lighthouse and a view of this kind over the coastline is a good way to get into the mindset of what it must have been like to be a resident or visitor here in the early 1900s. Book your Corolla vacation rental.
The Captivating Allure of the Beaches of Kill Devil Hills
Where the beaches of Corolla are highlighted for the way they showcase the rugged beauty of nature, the beaches of Kill Devil Hills are highlighted by the team at The Discoverer for their well-maintained coastal beauty as well as their family-friendly appeal. Here, visitors will find the beaches are well patrolled by lifeguards, providing swimmers, sunbathers, and water recreation enthusiasts with plenty of reasons to feel safe while focusing on the fun.
The Avalon Fishing Pier is pointed out as a prime place for anglers to enjoy day or night and it’s also mentioned as a great place to take a stroll and soak up the fact that you’re wandering along one of the very last wooden piers that the Carolina coast calls it’s own. For those that are looking for a place to enjoy a beach day in good company, they can count on finding in Kill Devil Hills which boasts the title of most populated destination along the upper Outer Banks. The population here is around 7,500 which means there are plenty of beachside shops and eateries to enjoy year-round.
The rich history of this area is also noted as a factor in Kill Devil Hills finding its way onto the best beaches list. Visitors can pair their day on the sand with time at the Wright Brothers National Memorial and Museum. It’s a wonderful way to pay homage to the first powered flight and a must-see for beach lovers who also happen to be history buffs.
Book Your Outer Banks Adventure Today
The next time travel plans bring you to the Outer Banks, be sure you have luxurious accommodations in place too by partnering with Shoreline OBX. Reach out today to learn more about our exciting options and to start planning your adventure.
Browse: Kill Devil Hills Vacation Rentals
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The Outer Banks is home to the most stunning beaches in North Carolina, featuring windswept sand dunes, wild horses, and miles of pristine coastline. No matter which area you choose to have your Outer Banks beach vacation on these breathtaking barrier islands, the perfect sandy oasis is waiting for you to sit back and embrace the cool ocean breeze. Follow our guide to the best Outer Banks beaches and you’ll be living like a beach bum in no time at all! Before your visit, download our complimentary Vacation Guide and receive instant access to the area’s best restaurants, attractions, and events. With our guide, planning your getaway has never been easier!
The Best Outer Banks Beaches
1. Kitty Hawk
Kitty Hawk is well known for many things, including its magnificent beach. The beach in Kitty Hawk, like Kill Devil Hills, receives some of the largest waves in all of the Northern Beaches. If you’re feeling adventurous, take part in some excellent surfing and skimboarding, as those are the most popular Kitty Hawk activities. Kitty Hawk Water Sports is conveniently located to supply you with surfboard and kayak rentals. Also, the area is home to Kitty Hawk Woods, a 461-acre maritime forest reserve with walking trails where you can spot local wildlife. If you have a love for surfing, make sure to book a Kitty Hawk vacation rental with convenient beach access!
2. Kill Devil Hills
Kill Devil Hills is known for some of the best waves and water sports in the area. Accompanied by big waves, you’ll definitely want to get in on the fun! As you travel along Highway 12, you’ll find various public beach accesses and public bathhouses. Browse through our Kill Devil Hills vacation rentals and find a perfect stay with easy beach access!
3. Nags Head
The natural beauty and lively atmosphere of Nags Head make it one of the most attractive beaches in the Outer Banks. While you’re visiting, be sure to take a stroll down Jennette’s Pier, the longest public pier in the state, and gaze at the unbelievable sunsets. Head to Nags Head—excellent weather and a gorgeous stretch of coastline on the East Coast are waiting! Find your vacation rental in Nags Head and start getting excited about your fun-filled trip to the Outer Banks!
4. Southern Shores
Nestled between the towns of Kitty Hawk and Duck, you’ll find Southern Shores. Southern Shores has everything you need to build the perfect beach day—stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, exciting shopping centers, local markets, and more. Public parking is limited in this area, so make sure to plan accordingly when heading out for the day. All of our Southern Shores vacation rentals provide a parking area and plenty of luxury amenities!
5. Duck
If your family has some furry members, you’ll want to visit Duck! Known as one of the most pet-friendly beaches in the country, Duck allows dogs to be off-leash and roam the sand and waters freely (under owner supervision, of course). Bring your favorite companion with you when you book a Duck vacation rental and visit this beach for some fun in the sun. While you’re here, check out some of Duck’s best attractions!
6. Corolla
Corolla is a unique destination that borders the Atlantic Ocean and Currituck Sound. This location allows beachgoers to easily access to the salty ocean waves, the calm kayak-worthy sound waters, and the picturesque maritime forests that lie in-between. Enjoy a stay in our Corolla vacation rentals and be ready for a unique vacation experience. Year after year, the Corolla Wild Horses have been a favorite attraction among visitors of all ages. Guided tours are available to get a one-of-a-kind look at the Wild Colonial Spanish Mustangs.
What to Bring to the Beach
Spending the day on the sandy shores is an exciting experience. Make sure you are prepared and have everything you might need to map out the perfect Outer Banks beach vacation.
- Beach towels
- Water
- Sunscreen
- Beach Umbrella
- Beach Blanket
- Change of clothes
- Lounge chairs
- Music
- Entertainment
- Book or Magazine
- Flip-flops
- Sunglasses
Check out this map of Outer Banks beaches for your reference!
Plan Your Vacation to the Best Outer Banks Beaches Today
Make your Outer Banks beach vacation complete with a stay at one of our beautiful OBX vacation rentals. Whether you’re embarking on a romantic getaway or family vacation, finding the perfect place to stay is never an issue! We have properties in every single one of the Outer Banks communities, many being oceanside homes. For example, On Sail Sat-Sat is one of our stunning pet-friendly homes in Corolla that features a private pool and hot tub!
