The Outer Banks is a string of barrier islands stretching along North Carolina’s coast, with wide beaches, small towns and plenty of history in between. If this is your first trip, here’s what to know before you go, and a few things you won’t want to miss.

Getting your bearings

Most of the action runs along two parallel roads. US 158, known locally as the Bypass, is the main highway with shops, restaurants and grocery stores. NC 12, called the Beach Road, runs closer to the ocean. Locals give directions by milepost, so you’ll often hear something described as “Beach Road, milepost 8.” Once you get the hang of it, finding your way around is easy.

Where to stay

Kill Devil Hills sits right in the middle of the northern Outer Banks, which makes it a convenient home base. You’re a short drive from Duck and Corolla to the north and Nags Head and Roanoke Island to the south. At Outer Banks Beach Club, you’ll be on the oceanfront with the beach just steps away.

Must-see stops for first-timers

Wright Brothers National Memorial. Kill Devil Hills is where Wilbur and Orville Wright made the first powered flight in 1903. Walk the flight path, climb the hill to the monument and imagine what it took to get off the ground.

Jockey’s Ridge State Park. Just south of Kill Devil Hills in Nags Head, Jockey’s Ridge is home to the tallest living sand dune system on the Atlantic coast. Climb to the top for sunset, or try hang gliding.

The wild horses of Corolla. North of Corolla, a herd of wild Spanish mustangs roams the 4×4 beaches. A guided tour is the best way to see them. Read our guide to seeing the wild horses of Corolla.

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. The black-and-white spiral lighthouse is one of the most recognizable sights in North Carolina. It’s a longer day trip south, and the lighthouse is closed for climbing through the end of 2026, but the grounds are still worth the drive.

What to eat

Seafood is the main event. Steamed shrimp, fresh local fish and oysters show up on nearly every menu. Check out our picks for the best seafood in Kill Devil Hills.

When to visit

Summer brings warm water, long beach days and the biggest crowds. Spring and fall offer milder weather, quieter beaches and easier dinner reservations, which makes them great seasons for a first visit.

Tips for your first trip

• Pack sunscreen, a hat and plenty of water. The sun on the beach is strong, even on breezy days.
• Pay attention to beach flags and posted warnings. Ocean conditions can change quickly.
• Plan grocery runs for weekday mornings in summer, when stores are less crowded.
• Leave room in your schedule. Some of the best moments happen when you have nowhere to be.

Plan your stay

Outer Banks Beach Club puts you in the heart of Kill Devil Hills, close to everything on this list. Book directly at booking.outerbanksbeachclubresort.com or call 252.441.6321 to save 10% on your stay.