Nags Head

Nags Head: A Gorgeous Outer Banks Oasis with Miles of Pristine Beach

Nags Head, North Carolina  is one of the Outer Banks most well known towns.  It is, geographically, the largest town on the Outer Banks and has 11 miles of beaches which are easily accessible to the public with plentiful parking. There are many lifeguards during the summer months and a large portion of the beaches in Nags Head were the first to undergo beach replenishment and consequently are some of the widest in the area.  

Nags Head is also known for Jockey's Ridge State Park, which is the largest sand dune on the east coast and the last of the remaining  sand dunes that were once prevalent in the area.  It is constantly moving and has even buried a hotel and a miniature golf course.  Occasionally, one can catch a glimpse of part of the golf course structure. Visitors can climb the dune for a breathtaking ocean to sound view and can also enjoy trekking along the peaceful sound side. Jockey's Ridge is also popular for kite flying and hang gliding. 

Other attractions in Nags Head, include 3 fishing Piers, one of which is Jeannette's Pier, that was rebuilt by the state of North Carolina after Hurricane Isabel destroyed the original Pier in 2003.  It is currently operated by the North Carolina Aquariums and is a popular spot for fishing, beach lounging, educational programs and special events. Nags Head Woods, a 1111 nature preserve, owned by the Nature Conservancy is also located in the town and has miles of trails to be enjoyed. There is no shortage of entertainment, shopping and dining options in Nags Head either. One can find watersports rentals, miniature golf courses, a full service golf course, quaint boutiques and restaurants, as well as a few well known chain restaurants and an outlet mall.

Background on This Outer Banks Community's Unique Name

Nags Head was known for the sand dunes that were visible from a long distance off shore. The name "Nags Head" is thought to have come from the days of piracy when lanterns were hung around the necks of a mule or an old nag (horse) and walked up and down the beach.  The bobbing of the lantern appeared like a ship anchored in safe waters to traveling ships and in this way ships were lured close to the shore and shipwrecked. They could then be looted for their valuables. Nags Head became known as a resort around 1830 and consisted of mostly single family cottages, cottages courts, and a few small hotels.  Some of these remain today.

Gorgeous (And Available) Nags Head Real Estate Awaits You

Nags Head is well known for its'  large vacation rental home market. Homes range from quaint beach cottages to expansive ocean front mansions that accommodate multiple families and have amenities that typically include swimming pools, hot tubs, game rooms, and private beach walkways. There are also west side neighborhoods that are a nice combination of rental and year around residences. The life style here is laid back and the Town of Nags Head prides itself on keeping the charm of the original town intact.

In that spirit, the town has developed building guidelines that encourage modern construction to mimic the traditional Nags Head style.  Nags Head is the perfect spot to own a vacation rental investment property, second home, or primary residence. Most homes are within a reasonable walk to the ocean or sound and the wide range of activities available in the town make it a perfect place to explore when considering a purchase on the Outer Banks.

Interested in investing in your own Nags Head property? Then please contact me, Denice Tappero, your dedicated Outer Banks real estate expert.  When we talk, I'll tell you all about my home buyer resources and also provide you more information on this community.  I would also love to take the opportunity to tell you about available Nags Head home listings for sale.  One of them could be the next home you want to own!