The Outer Banks is widely known for its amazing surf, history of the first flight, and much more. After spending a long day on the beach playing in the sand, walking the boardwalk, or just exploring all the OBX has to offer, you can relax and unwind by taking in the beautiful sunset. Of course one of the most breathtaking views on the island is watching the sunset over the Atlantic ocean. With so many options of places to see the sunset for spectacular views, it’s hard to just choose one. However, if you are visiting the Outer Banks for a few days, try out seeing a sunset from a different spot each day, you won’t be disappointed. Here are a few of our favorite places to see the most beautiful sunset on the island.
Bay Drive & Village of Nags Head Gazebos
Make sure to check out this hidden gem that is tucked on the west side of the bypass called Bay Drive. This road connects Kitty Hawk with Kill Devil Hills. Ride a bike down the scenic path as you watch the sunset or kayak on the sound as the sun goes down. This Area is only reachable through bike or foot so you will enjoy the serene sound as the sun sets on the water.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore
For an experience of a lifetime check out the Cape Hatteras national seashore. It is home to the tallest brick lighthouse in North America. The behemoth that is black and white makes for spectacular sunrise or sunset photos. You can opt to have the lighthouse in the background of your photo or take it from the top of the lighthouse overlooking the surrounding area. After snapping your sunrise picture, walk on the beach to find treasures before all of the hustle and bustle.
Currituck Heritage Park
Located in the Historic Whalehead Club, the beautiful bridge stretching from the Currituck Sound to a canal through the park. The bridge is famous for pictures as it is the perfect background scenery As you catch a photo of the sunset on the water. The outline of the bridge and foliage along with all of the Whalehead clubs’ beautiful elements makes for a great picture no matter where you are in the club. Watch the sunrise or set over the water or even snap a picture of the park while it’s crossing the lighthouse.
Duck Boardwalk
Wind down the day by taking a stroll on the duckboard walk during a beautiful OBX sunset. The boardwalk stretches almost the entire length of the village and zigzags through shops and restaurants along the way. Watch the sunset go down as tit ducks behind the restaurants and shops.
Jockey’s Ridge State Park
Taking a deep breath of fresh air as you climb up the tallest natural sand dune system on the East Coast. Bask in the beautiful sunset overlooking the Roanoke sound while also being able to see the ocean as well as the town of Manteo, North Carolina. Bring a kite to partake in some late afternoon activities or just grab your camera and embrace the sunset. Views like this are few and far between.
Outer Banks Fishing Pier
To experience an amazing sunset head to the Outer Banks fishing pier for an oceanfront view of the sun setting on the water. With over 600 feet to walk and explore, the pier will offer Amazing views that even a photo won’t do justice. If you opt for catching the sunrise, you can see what it is like to be an angler for a day as they stroll onto the pier long before the rest of the island wakes up. See the sun glisten over the water and start to heat up the island as you head back to your vacation home.
West Soundside Road
For those looking for a bit of an adventure check out West Soundside Road. You can drive your vehicle nearly level with the water in Nagshead. It is south of jockey’s ridge and connects a quiet neighborhood to the bypass. It has more than a quarter-mile of sound front views that you can drive as the sun starts to set. There’s no parking available however you can bask in the views as you drive down the stretch of beach. West Soundside Road offers one of the best sunset views in the island. For those looking to go biking, this is a great path to view a beautiful Outer Banks sunset on a nice ride.
Wright Brothers Multi Use Path
Also known as the Kitty Hawk bike path the Wright’s brothers multi-use path is the perfect area to see a beautiful sunset or sunrise. Enjoy the serene path as motorized vehicles are strictly prohibited making this area quiet, calm, and beautiful. Snap a picture of the sunset as it sets on the sea oats, marsh grass, boats, and floating docks. It’s a crowd favorite year-round and it’s located right off of Bay Drive.
No matter where you decide to see the sunset or sunrise you won’t be disappointed. From nature trails to the Pamlico sound, the views will be outstanding. The memories you created on your Outer Banks vacation will be memories that will last a lifetime. Explore the maritime Forest, become a kiteboarder, or wake up early to see the sunrise before all of the hustle and bustle. We hope to see you soon here on the island of beautiful sunsets.