Other nearby interesting sites to visit include the Wright Brothers National Memorial and Jockey's Ridge State Park where you can climb the tallest sand dune on the east coast or take some hang gliding classes. A bit farther south, Pea Island Nature Preserve and Cape Hatteras Lighthouse are fun and interesting to explore. Seasonal climbing tours of Cape Hatteras Lighthouse are normally open from mid-April through Columbus Day in October.
At the southern end of the Outer Banks, Ocracoke Island is a quieter area that is popular with families during the summer. Kids enjoy exploring the island's fascinating connection to the famous pirate, Blackbeard and seeing the wild ponies for which Ocracoke is known. In 2007, Ocracoke Lifeguarded Beach was selected by Dr. Stephen P. Leatherman (aka Dr. Beach) as America's Top Beach.
While the ocean can offer hours of family fun along the Outer Banks, it can also be very dangerous with powerful rip tides and strong currents. Young children should be accompanied and watched extremely carefully when playing at the edge of the ocean and even strong swimmers should always use the buddy system.
Additional Articles and Resources:
Roanoke Island and The Lost Colony
A Driving Tour of the Outer Banks
Ocracoke Lifeguarded Beach - 2007 America's Best Beach
Ocracoke Island Photo Tour
Outer Banks Hotels - Compare Hotel Prices for:
Manteo Hotels
Nags Head Hotels
Kill Devil Hills Hotels
Duck Hotels
