A chain of barrier islands that stretches for over 100 miles off the North Carolina coast, the Outer Banks is known for its natural beauty, beaches, historical sites, and maritime forests. It is a popular getaway for those looking to escape the busy cities and other tourism destinations, with plenty of unique experiences and interesting sites that any group will enjoy.
“The Outer Banks is an irresistible destination full of bucket list attractions that work well for group travel,” says Wit Tuttell, executive director of Visit North Carolina. “The boundless inspiration at Wright Brothers National Memorial, the natural wonders of Jockey’s Ridge State Park, the views from the top of a towering lighthouse—these experiences have priceless appeal. For groups that want active pursuits, Kitty Hawk Kites and other outfitters will arrange land, air, and water adventures while other travelers take pleasure in tranquil moments amid the natural beauty. The Outer Banks has long been a favorite summer vacation spot, but today’s travelers are discovering the pleasures visiting in spring, fall, and even winter.”
Built in 1875, the Currituck Beach Lighthouse has been an active public aid to navigation for the past 150 years. It was the last major brick lighthouse to be illuminated on the Outer Banks, and it also lit the last dark space on the Atlantic coast. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973 and has been carefully preserved by the Outer Banks Conservationists as well as the state of North Carolina and United States Coast Guard through the National Historic Lighthouse Preservation Act of 2000. Docents, exhibits, and brochures educate visitors about the history and significance of the light station and the lives of lighthouse keepers. The lighthouse is open daily from mid-March to December.
“Climb the 220 steps of the uniquely unpainted red-brick Currituck Beach Lighthouse for breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Currituck Sound,” says Meghan Agresto, site manager for Currituck Beach Lighthouse. “This remarkable tower on the remote northern Outer Banks of North Carolina combines engineering ingenuity, architectural beauty, and human history with exhibits honoring the lighthouse keepers who safeguarded mariners along this once-dark stretch of coast.”
Jockey’s Ridge State Park is located in Dare County in the Outer Banks and has the tallest living sand dune system on the Atlantic coast. Enjoy numerous activities, including hang gliding with lessons available from a private company, sandboarding, hiking, kite flying, beach access, and picnicking. Park staff also lead regularly scheduled interpretive programs and educational events such as hikes, kids’ crafts, presentations, and more. The park opens daily at 8 a.m. and closes between 6 and 9 p.m., depending on the month.
“Known for being the tallest active dune on the East Coast, Jockey’s Ridge State Park is one of North Carolina’s most notable unique natural landmarks,” says Austin Paul, a park ranger at Jockey’s Ridge State Park. “Hike through a maritime forest out to an open dune barren. Once reaching the base of the big dunes, ascend along the slope and catch a panoramic glimpse of beautiful Nags Head and the surrounding area. Aquatic activities can be found along the park’s shoreline located on the Roanoke Sound. Contact the park’s visitor center for details.”
Credit: North Carolina Aquariums/Meredith Fish
Dedicated to animals both in their care and in the wild, the North Carolina Aquariums have four locations, two of which are in the Outer Banks and conveniently located within a 15-minute drive of each other: North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island and Jennette’s Pier in Nags Head. Each location has different offerings, programs, daily events, and special activities. Jennette’s Pier is the oceanfront fishing and educational location.
“Jennette’s offers some of the best fishing on the Outer Banks and a wide variety of species can be targeted,” says Daryl Law, communications manager for North Carolina Aquariums. “We welcome all anglers from beginners to experts. We also feature numerous educational experiences throughout the pier house and on the pier.”
The North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island’s flagship exhibit is its sea turtle hospital, which is known as the Sea Turtle Assistance and Rehabilitation Center. It is noteworthy as one of the few sea turtle hospitals in the country that is open to the public. Special group rates are available for civic organizations such as nonprofits, as well as community, senior, or religious groups.
“From sightseeing and school field trips, to hosting a wedding, to enjoying a group overnight experience or birthday party event,” says Larry Warner, the aquarium’s director, “the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island offers many memorable and exciting group experiences, including behind-the-scenes tours of the 285,000-gallon ‘Graveyard of the Atlantic’ shark habitat and the Sea Turtle Assistance and Rehabilitation Center.”
By Kamala Kirk
Main Image: Currituck Beach Lighthouse, Corolla; Credit: Visit North Carolina
