10 Best Sunset Spots in the Outer Banks
Outer Banks is a beautiful coastal beach area in North Carolina known for its dunes, unique beach houses, and sunset spots along the Atlantic Ocean.
During the summer, many people from up north travel to the Outer Banks for a getaway.
I can almost always guarantee that beach house rentals and hotels will triple in price around this time.
If you want to plan an affordable trip, make sure to book your accommodation well in advance.
But one of the best things to do when visiting the Outer Banks is to plan out where to see the breathtaking sunsets. There are many places to see the sunset including Manteo, Kitty Hawk, and more!
Refer to this post for a short itinerary for the Outer Banks.
1. Freedman’s Point on Roanoke Island
One place we just discovered recently; Freedman’s Point in Manteo is a peaceful place to watch the sunset to avoid the crowds.
With a small parking lot near the water, you can park your car and easily walk over to the calming beach.
The most unique part about this beach on the Croatan Sound is the natural landscape that forces you to come together with nature. Sit on the sand or the abundance of branches and rocks to enjoy the sunset.
2. Downtown Manteo
A great way to spend a whole day in the Outer Banks is by exploring and soaking in the beautiful town of Manteo.
After stopping by the Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse, shopping inside cute stores, and grabbing a bite to eat at a local seafood restaurant, watch the sunset over the sound at the small park just across the bridge.
You can also see the sunset from the Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse.
3. Jockey’s Ridge State Park
This stunning state park is home to the largest dune on the east coast. Jockey’s Ridge is great for all ages and offers hiking trails and hang gliding.
Once you enter the free state park, there is a small parking lot with restrooms. (But be aware that the parking lot is known for car break-ins)
Walk on the boardwalk to immerse yourself in nature as you prepare to take in the sunset resting over the dunes.
Location: 300 W Carolista Drive, Nags Head, NC
4. Kitty Hawk Woods Reserve
A 1,824-acre nature preserve in Dare County, this lush, green area is filled with trails and wetlands for various activities.
The quiet atmosphere draws in locals and visitors alike with a few chances to see wildlife. This is also a great spot to see the sunset in the Outer Banks.
If you have dogs, this untouched area of the Outer Banks will offer an exciting yet peaceful getaway from the crowds. (Be aware of the ticks)
5. Oregon Inlet
One of the most known locations for fishing in the Outer Banks is the Oregon Inlet. This is a great place to spend the afternoon even if you don’t like to fish.
But if you do love to fish, bring all of your gear and catch a few blue marlins before catching the sunset.
Did you know? The best months to fish in the Outer Banks are August through September with Jennette’s Pier being the largest pier on the Outer Banks.
6. Duck Boardwalk
A beautiful mile-long boardwalk in the town of Duck, the Duck Boardwalk is a string of restaurants and a marsh linked by the Currituck sound.
Spend the day shopping and tasting the flavorful cuisine at one of the many restaurants before catching a glimpse of the sunset.
Parking info: Park at the Duck town government building or park in one of the store parking lots.
Tip: Make sure to find restrooms elsewhere because not many businesses have public restrooms.
7. Kitty Hawk
Another way to see an even closer view of the sunset is to visit the Sound side of Kitty Hawk.
Hidden within a waterfront community, there is a small walking trail with a tranquil shoreline and a deck area to watch the sunset.
8. Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
A historical landmark in Buxton, the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is a gem that educates visitors on the significant history of the Maritime casualties of the American Civil War.
Both indoors and outdoors strive to immerse people in the past with informative displays and exhibits.
Once learning about war and historic steamboats, wait patiently for a stunning sunset in the background of the iconic lighthouse.
Location: 46379 Lighthouse Rd, Buxton, NC
9. Wright Brothers National Monument
One of the landmarks that placed the Outer Banks on the map is the Wright Brothers Memorial in Kill Devil Hills.
The Wright Brothers Monument in particular is a great place to watch the sun go down.
Since this place is usually busy during the day, watching the sunset here is even more magical.
Tip to save time when visiting: buy entrance passes online
Location: 1000 N Croatan Hwy, Kill Devil Hills, NC
10. Canadian Hole
Within the Cape Hatteras Seashore, Canadian Hole is an underrated sunset spot in the Outer Banks.
The sound side beach may not be untouched but provides all of the much-needed beach facilities including a shower.
Paddleboard or swim in the shallow sound as you soak in the beautiful pinks, oranges, and reds.
You can also wind and kite surf!
It seems like every time I visit the Outer Banks, there is one more sunset spot that I have discovered in both the high and low seasons. Many more sunset spots are waiting to be found in the Outer Banks!
Here are more vacation spots for you to check out: