Where to Take Photos in OBX: 10 Best Spots
Summer is peak season in the Outer Banks and taking photos can pose as a challenge with the growing number of travelers visiting the series of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina. But the summer isn’t the only time of year to visit and take photos at these iconic landmarks in OBX.
Many of these places I was able to visit in the winter with barely anyone around, which allowed me to really soak in their beauty instead of rushing to get a photo.
For any occasion, these photo locations can serve as memorable moments of your time spent in the Outer Banks. Some of these locations even include a little dash of history that influenced how the Outer Banks got to where it is today.
Here are a few places if you’re wondering where to take photos in OBX.
Instagrammable Spots in the Outer Banks
1. Bodie Lighthouse
This iconic lighthouse not only serves as a picturesque subject for your feed but also has a rich history dating back to the 1870s.
Bodie Lighthouse, located on the north end of Cape Hatteras Island in North Carolina, was originally constructed in 1872. The lighthouse, standing at 156 feet tall, served as a guiding light for ships navigating the treacherous waters of the Outer Banks.
Over the years, Bodie Lighthouse has weathered storms, erosion, and even a move in the 1980s to protect it from the rough seas.
The unique black and white striped pattern of the lighthouse, set against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, makes for a striking image. You can also play with different angles of the lighthouse with the boardwalk and nature trail.
Who knows, your photo might just inspire others to visit this historic gem themselves!
Address: 8210 Bodie Island Lighthouse Rd, Nags Head, NC 27959
2. Downtown Manteo
The charming town of Downtown Manteo is a hidden gem brimming with history and picturesque spots that are just waiting to be captured and shared.
Downtown Manteo is one of the oldest towns in the state, dating back to the 16th century when it was first settled by English explorers.
Walking through the quaint streets, you can feel the echoes of the past in the well-preserved historic buildings and the cobblestone paths that wind their way through the town.
But it’s not just the history that makes Downtown Manteo a perfect backdrop for your Instagram photos. The town also has colorful boutiques, cozy cafes, and art galleries, offering so many aesthetically pleasing settings for your next post.
And let’s not forget about the waterfront views. The town is situated along the stunning Roanoke Sound, providing endless opportunities for capturing shots of sailboats bobbing in the harbor, seagulls gliding overhead, and the shimmering water reflecting the colors of the sunset.
Check out my post on things to do in Manteo to get the most out of your vacation!
3. Currituck Lighthouse
Located in Corolla, this red brick lighthouse stands at 162 feet tall, offering sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.
The unique architecture of the lighthouse, combined with its scenic coastal backdrop, creates a stunning setting for photos. Whether you’re a professional photographer looking to capture the perfect shot or a casual visitor wanting to snap a memorable picture, the Currituck Lighthouse offers a picture-perfect opportunity.
As you climb the 220 steps to the top of the lighthouse, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, Currituck Sound, and the surrounding marshlands. The gentle sea breeze and the seagulls in the distance add to the enchanting experience.
Address: 1101 Corolla Village Rd, Corolla, NC 27927
4. Kitty Hawk (Sound Side)
This quaint town is near the site where Orville and Wilbur Wright made their first successful powered flight in 1903, marking a significant milestone in aviation history.
The Sound side of Kitty Hawk offers a unique perspective of the Outer Banks, with its tranquil waters and stunning sunsets creating a magical backdrop for any photographer.
Windgrass Circle Park has very limited parking, but it is an awesome place to watch the sunset.
5. Wright Brothers Memorial
The Wright Brothers National Memorial stands tall on the same sandy dunes where the Wright brothers achieved their monumental feat over a century ago. The memorial features a striking 60-foot granite monument that resembles the wings of an aircraft, overlooking the expansive landscape.
This is the place where aviation history was forever altered.
Visitors to the memorial can explore a museum filled with interactive exhibits, rare artifacts, and detailed accounts of the Wright brothers’ journey towards flight. From replicas of their historic aircraft to personal possessions, the museum provides a comprehensive look at the brothers’ groundbreaking work.
Apart from its historical significance, the Wright Brothers National Memorial is also a photographer’s paradise. The sweeping vistas, dramatic landscapes, and the imposing monument itself make for stunning backdrops for capturing memorable moments.
I would definitely visit this landmark at sunset.
You can also plan in advance to attend during one of the major holidays where you don’t have to pay a fee. Here is a list of holidays that are free admission days.
Address: 1000 N Croatan Hwy, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948
6. Jockey’s Ridge State Park
This unique park has the tallest natural sand dune system in the Eastern United States, making it a prime location for capturing stunning photographs.
The history of Jockey’s Ridge State Park dates back to the early 1900s when the area was used for mining sand to create roads and buildings. However, in the 1970s, the dunes were designated as a protected area, leading to the establishment of the state park in 1975.
Since then, the park has become a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, kite flying, hang gliding, and of course, photography.
If you’re interested in wildlife, keep your eyes peeled for unique species such as ghost crabs, piping plovers, and sea oats, all of which add to the park’s natural charm.
Address: 300 W Carolista Dr, Nags Head, NC 27959
7. Elizabethan Gardens
The history of the Elizabethan Gardens dates back to the late 16th century when Sir Walter Raleigh first attempted to establish a colony on Roanoke Island. While the colony itself was ultimately unsuccessful, the legacy of the Elizabethan era lives on through these stunning gardens.
Inspired by the lush landscapes of England during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, the gardens were designed to capture the essence of a bygone era.
With winding pathways, vibrant blooms, and carefully curated plant collections, the gardens provide the perfect backdrop for capturing stunning photographs.
Whether you decide to visit in the summer, spring, or even the winter with the holiday lights, Elizabethan Gardens in Fort Raleigh National Historic Site doesn’t have one bad angle when it comes to capturing photos.
If you want to book special event photos, head to their website for fees and rules around professional photography.
Address: 1411 National Park Dr, Manteo, NC 27954
8. Avalon Pier
Stretching out into the Atlantic Ocean, this historic pier offers a unique perspective of the surrounding beauty, which is a perfect backdrop for memorable photos.
With its rustic wooden planks and panoramic views of the crystal-clear waters, Avalon Pier is a photographer’s dream come true. Whether you’re aiming to capture a breathtaking sunrise or the vibrant turquoise hues of the ocean, this pier provides the ideal setting for stunning shots.
It is also a great place to spend all day fishing. You will see many locals take part in this activity.
Tip: You will have to pay a small fee to access the pier during the high season for photos. If you don’t want to pay to take photos at the pier, you can go on the beach and have the pier in the background.
Address: 2111 N Virginia Dare Trail, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948
9. Oregon Inlet
Oregon Inlet, originally known as Pea Island Inlet, has played a significant role in the maritime history of the Outer Banks. The inlet was formed by a powerful storm in 1846, which created a new channel connecting the Pamlico Sound to the Atlantic Ocean.
This new passage provided a shorter and safer route for ships traveling along the coast, leading to increased trade and commerce in the region.
Over the years, Oregon Inlet has been a vital lifeline for the fishing industry, serving as a gateway for commercial and recreational fishermen to access the rich waters of the Atlantic.
With its sweeping vistas of sand dunes, marshlands, and crashing waves, the inlet offers endless opportunities for stunning landscape shots.
Birdwatchers and nature lovers flock to the area to catch a glimpse of the diverse bird species that call the inlet home, including pelicans, herons, and ospreys.
10. Freedman’s Point
Freedman’s Point is a significant area within the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site in Manteo, North Carolina. It holds historical importance as a place where freed slaves settled after the Civil War.
This is a great spot for photos due to its historical significance and picturesque surroundings. The area offers stunning views of the Croatan Sound and the surrounding natural beauty of the Outer Banks. You will find unique plants here that you haven’t seen before.
The combination of historical significance and scenic views makes Freedman’s Point the ideal location for photographers looking to capture both the beauty of the landscape and the echoes of the past.
This area is also a popular location to capture some of the best sunsets in all of the Outer Banks.
Final Thoughts
The Outer Banks offers a diverse range of stunning photo spots for every photographer’s style and preference.
From picturesque beaches and historic lighthouses to charming villages and wildlife refuges, there is no shortage of captivating locations to capture for Instagram and beyond.
The next time you are looking to take photos for a special occasion, refer to this post on where to take photos in OBX.
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