The Outer Banks are a 200-mile chain of barrier islands off the North Carolina coast, offering wild, unspoiled Atlantic beaches within Cape Hatteras National Seashore and beyond. Tidal range varies by location; low tide is best for beach driving (with permit), shelling, and exploring the broad sandy shoals.
Atlantic tidal range averages 3–4 ft along the Banks; low tide is the prime time for shelling (particularly after northeast storms, which deliver sand dollars, whelks, and olive shells), 4WD beach driving on permitted sections, and accessing the widest, firmest sand. Cape Hatteras consistently produces the best surfing on the East Coast at mid tide, with the Point generating world-class conditions when conditions align; swimming requires awareness of strong currents near the inlets; surf fishing for red drum and striped bass is considered world-class, especially in the fall run. Local note: a $50 annual 4WD beach driving permit is required for the off-road sections; Hatteras Lighthouse is the tallest in the US; a free ferry connects Hatteras and Ocracoke islands; Wright Brothers National Memorial is in Kill Devil Hills at the northern end of the Banks.
Nearby Beaches