Are you ready for an unforgettable weekend road trip? Picture yourself cruising down scenic coastal roads, exploring historic sites, hiking through nature, and relaxing in charming towns with a cold drink in hand. That’s exactly what we experienced during our weekend adventure to the Outer Banks, with stops in Nags Head, Kill Devil Hills, and the quaint town of Manteo on the way back to Wilmington. This guide will take you through the highlights of our journey and give you a taste of what makes these spots so special.
Saturday: Exploring Nags Head, Rodanthe and Kill Devil Hills
Kate and I were up and out early on Saturday to head to the Outer Banks from Wilmington. It was a little cloudy when we left, but as we got further north the sky cleared up and it turned out to be a beautiful day for a drive.
Our first stop was Bodie Island Lighthouse. The Bodie Island Lighthouse, located just south of Nags Head in the Outer Banks, is a striking black-and-white striped beacon that has guided mariners since 1872. Standing at 156 feet tall, it is one of the few brick lighthouses still in operation today. Visitors can climb the 214 steps to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding marshlands, maritime forests, and the Atlantic Ocean. This historic lighthouse, part of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, has been essential in preventing shipwrecks along the dangerous Graveyard of the Atlantic, where treacherous currents and shifting sandbars make navigation difficult.
Our second stop was Nags Head, one of the most popular towns in the Outer Banks. Known for its long stretches of sandy beaches and iconic sand dunes, this area is the perfect place to kick off a road trip. We parked in a neighborhood, and took an access path to get to the beach. Murphy loved playing in the water and it was nice to just sit and relax and watch the ocean waves.
History of Nags Head: Nags Head dates back to the 1830s when it was one of the first seaside resorts in North Carolina. According to legend, its name comes from pirates who used to hang lanterns around the necks of their nags (horses) to lure ships into the shallow waters, causing them to run aground. They would then loot the ships!
After some time on the beach, we made our way to Kill Devil Hills, another fantastic stop on the Outer Banks. This area is most famous for being the location of the Wright Brothers National Memorial, where Orville and Wilbur Wright made their first successful flight in 1903.
History of Kill Devil Hills: The Wright brothers specifically chose this location because of its ideal wind conditions, soft sandy landings, and remote setting. Today, the Wright Brothers National Memorial stands as a testament to their ingenuity and perseverance. Be sure to climb the hill to the monument for a panoramic view of the Outer Banks and the spot where history was made!
Besides the history, Kill Devil Hills is a great place to enjoy the beach and coastal vibes. You can take a leisurely walk along the shoreline, visit local shops, or grab a bite at one of the many seafood restaurants in town.
Rodanthe, a serene village on the Outer Banks, is known for its peaceful beaches and beautiful oceanfront homes, but it faces a significant challenge: beach erosion. Over the years, rising sea levels and frequent storms have caused the shoreline to retreat, putting many homes at risk. Some iconic beachfront houses, once safe from the waves, now stand precariously close to the ocean’s edge. Efforts are ongoing to mitigate the impact, including beach nourishment projects and relocation of vulnerable properties, but the erosion remains a pressing concern for homeowners and the future of Rodanthe’s picturesque coastline.
Sunday: Hiking in Nags Head and Charming Visit to Manteo on the Way Home
After checking out of our Airbnb on Sunday morning, we decided to stretch our legs with a hike at the Nags Head Nature Conservancy. If you’re a nature lover, this is a must-visit spot. There are trails for every fitness level from .2 to 3 mile hikes. NOTE: the mosquitos were really bad when we were there, so make sure you take bug repellent.
The conservancy is home to the famous Jockey’s Ridge State Park, which boasts the tallest living sand dune system on the Atlantic coast. The sweeping views from the top of the dunes are absolutely breathtaking, and it’s a great place for some fun outdoor activities, like kite flying or sandboarding.
After our hike, we made a last-minute decision to stop by Manteo, and it turned out to be one of the best parts of the trip. Although it was a Sunday, so some of the shops were closed, we so enjoyed the quiet atmosphere of the town. We walked on the boardwalk along the water lined with docked boats and inns.
Take a walk out to the lighthouse and watch people fishing off the pier.
History of Manteo: Manteo is located on Roanoke Island and is steeped in history. It’s most famous for being near the site of the Lost Colony, the first English settlement in the New World that mysteriously disappeared in the late 1500s. The town is named after Chief Manteo, a Native American who became an ally to the English colonists.
Manteo has a small-town charm that’s hard to resist. We wandered the streets, admiring the beautiful waterfront views and historic architecture. The downtown area is full of unique shops, art galleries, and local eateries. One of the highlights was stopping for lunch at Lost Colony Tavern, where we sat outside on the patio to enjoy the perfect fall weather, and savored a delicious burger and a cold drink, soaking in the laid-back vibe of the town. It was the perfect way to wrap up our weekend road trip.
Final Thoughts
This weekend road trip to the Outer Banks was everything we hoped for—relaxing, historic, and full of natural beauty. From hiking the dunes at Nags Head to walking in the footsteps of aviation pioneers in Kill Devil Hills, and ending with a charming lunch in Manteo, it was a journey full of memories. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or just looking for a peaceful escape, the Outer Banks offers something for everyone.
If you’re planning your own road trip, make sure to include these towns on your itinerary. You’ll love the mix of history, nature, and small-town charm that makes the Outer Banks such a beloved destination.
Happy travels!
