Nags Head's Jockey's Ridge State Park is a natural wonder that offers adventurers a variety of activities to enjoy, from hiking and sandboarding to kite flying. The park is always open from sunrise to sunset, and admission is free.
I always love coming here, and my recent visit on vacation was no exception!
The building was closed, but that certainly does not prevent you from going walking around it to access the sand!
Is there some sort of trail here? I know this is the end of the mountain-to-sea trail but I thought there was a trail specifically around the park.
Plenty of big dunes to take a fun tumble down, and this park contains the highest point in Dare County!
They also offer hang gliding here! If you look hard enough you can find the other end of the water too!
But what is this mysterious castle structure I took a picture of?
There are also showers for your feet at the entrance building, and you will definitely need it!
beastlycharizard13 — Google review
Great state park. Huge sand dunes with great views of the bay and Nags Head. The Park Ranger we met was really awesome and let the kids sit in his vehicle and gave them sunglasses and stickers. Lots of people flying kites and you can hang glide by appointment.
Chris Sweet — Google review
What a lovely unexpected stop as we arrived in the Outer Banks and waited for our rental to be ready. We ended up spending a few hours here and walking amongst the enormous dunes on a gorgeous spring day.Everyone in the family enjoyed it and it's great for little ones to run out some energy. It was nice taking our shoes off and exploring, but also watching the kites and hang gliders set up. You'll definitely want your sunscreen and glasses, since there is no shade out there.
Christy T. — Google review
My kids love this place. I do probably more than them...it's a really big hill of sand, which doesn't sound enjoyable at all, but the entire ecosystem captured there is incredible. Pack sunscreen, it'll be hot, but at the bottom of the dune, just as you come off the boardwalk, is a little basin where the water filters down and settles. The water is very warm and filled with tadpoles, which thrilled my kids to death. Take a kite and hold on, the winds will lift it high and fast. Watch the hang-gliding lessons and explore all the little paths. Great views of both the ocean and the sound
Bill Ruffalo — Google review
This was a really great place to visit and probably a once in a lifetime experience unless you plan to visit the Great White Sand Dunes in Colorado. The sand is super soft and the hike is very short to get to the main dunes. Images cant adequately capture how vast it feels when you’re there! If you have a pet I’d suggest going in the morning or evening so the sand is cooler. There is no shade whatsoever on the main dunes so bring a backpack and some water and a hat. Its also more windy at the dunes than in the parking lot so plan to go on a calmer day. It only took us 15 mins to walk from one side of the dunes to the other so its not as far as it seems when you first get there.
Only downside was that right after we got there someone dropped off 6 tour buses full of youths and their extended families so it quickly became a giant sandbox full of 200 cackling teenagers. Try going during off days/hours or multiple times since it’s totally free!
Matt Olpinski — Google review
Pictures honestly don’t do this place justice. It’s amazing! It’s way bigger than I expected it to be, so you feel like you’re alone even though you may not be. There are so many trails to walk and it’s such a great place to bring your dogs. They do have to be leashed but we let ours run a bit without holding onto them because no one was around and they have good recall. 10/10 recommend giving this place a visit and I’d definitely plan to spend a good chunk of time here!
Katie Bevacqua — Google review
I loved the open dunes on an excellent February of 46F. When we got to the trees, the trail was not well maintained, but we scrambled to the water. The signs can be confusing but we use the app “trails” to guide us. I totally recommend this place when the temps are low.
Veronica Hoyos-Leonard — Google review
Always have to make a stop here while visiting the Outer Banks. This is a must stop if you are a first time visitor.
The facilities have always been clean. The gift shop and vending machines are there if you need a snack or a beverage to cool off.
I would suggest bringing some water. It gets hot on top of the ridge. However its worth the hike because the view is amazing.
M.K. Productions — Google review
Our all time favorite place to visit in the area regardless of the season.
Tip#1: Rent the boards from the shop.
Tip#2: WAX, WAX, WAX and WAX the bottom of the board every 3 trips down. Edges first!!!
#3:We bring snacks and blankets. Going up and down the hills is exhausting. We lay down, take naps, snack and take walks in between.
Our favorite hill is the first real big one in the first main clearing. We haven't covered all of the park but that was our tried and true best out of all the hills we did.
Make sure you walk towards the center hills so you can see both the ocean and the sound. It is beautiful. I highly recommend bringing a kite. We just unfold it and like magic it flies, almost too well. I do wish the little store had more Jockey Ridge merchandise. We would have stocked up. The staff were great! Thank you for a great experience.
Fort Far — Google review
Lovely dune park in the Outer Banks.
Lots of parking, restrooms, and multiple paths out to the dunes.
There is also a short boardwalk to a viewing area.
If you walk far enough, you'll eventually see views of The Sound.
Wear appropriate footwear and expect blowing sand.
Also expect crowds with tour and/or school groups.
Cynthia Edmonds — Google review
Highly recommend visiting! We only had about 36 hours in the Outer Banks and we chose to do this. Free to visit. Went about an hour and a half before sunset. There’s a parking lot with plenty of spots and then at the little building they have a men’s and women’s bathroom. Plenty of stalls if you were with a group. We didn’t wear our shoes on the dunes so if you wear them, I recommend bringing a book bag to put them in. Also recommend sunglasses especially if it’s windy, because the sand blows into your eyes. 😆
Gabrielle Hughes — Google review
We rode by and saw the people out on the dunes from the road so I looked it up and found the Jockeys Ridge state park. I told my husband it would be neat to go out there and take a look. It was incredible to see all of the sand dunes here! You wouldn't expect to see so many huge sand dunes comparable to what it must be like in the dessert just a much smaller scale. My husband explained to me how it reminded him of his deployments. It's a fun family friendly place to go and explore and play. You can see the beach from both sides at the very top of the sand dunes. We will have to come back one day with our boys.
Angelica Denham — Google review
Worth the exhaustion of climbing all the dudes and fighting the wind. Incredible views and memories with my kids. Don't skip this place if you're visiting OBX. Pay a little bit more for a better kite at the kitty hawk kites store across the street and it was a great investment.
Jacqueline Kretzer — Google review
Jockey Ridge State Park is just awesome! Picture this: you're surrounded by massive sand dunes, with the ocean in the distance.
It's the perfect spot for kite flying or a leisurely hike on the trails. Whether you're into adventure or just chilling out, this park has it all. Definitely worth checking out if you're in the area!
Nook Hanklang — Google review
Beautiful! We went twice at sunset during our stay in the OBX. One day was really windy, but the sand blowing over the dunes was really neat. Both days had beautiful sunsets and weren’t crowded. We went during the off season (March), so I’m not sure how crowded it gets in summer
Allison Abel — Google review
Absolutely beautiful!! Waited for the sunset which was spectacular. Did a time lapse of the sunset. The park closed at 6 pm due to being in the off season; however, the park ranger was great and understood that the sunset would be after 6 pm and allowed for extra time. A must see. Be prepared to climb a steep dune following a scenic boardwalk to an observation area.
Wendy George — Google review
Fun time climbing the dunes. Great to do on a cooler day. Great views all around. The sand is packed and wind blown so not a hard climb through the sand.
Rob Spitler — Google review
So much fun to come with the kids and learn about the dunes in NC and fly a kite. I’m very glad we stopped. The dunes were massive compared to what I was expecting after having been to the beach all week. The indoor restrooms were very nice (didn’t use the ones outside). There were vending machines and picnic tables along w an area to rise the sand off.
Shelby Roberts — Google review
Jockey's Ridge was one of the places on my must visit list while doing a lighthouse tour along the Outer Banks. It's a phenomenal place that feels otherworldly while being located in such a bustling location. The dunes and sheer amount of sand stretching to the horizon is amazing. It was a fun experience running up the dunes with warm sand under my feet. This is also the eastern end of the state's Mountains to Sea Trail.
Charles Pinney — Google review
We decided on a whim to visit Jockey's Ridge State Park, and I am glad we did. We went earlier in the day when it was very windy after a night of rain. My son and I walked the boardwalk to the end, and then decided to see what these dunes were all.about. First, we climbed a steep hill, but once we got to the top we were greeted by an open area of dunes, and a view, in the distant, of the Roanoke Sound. Nature is so beautiful and awesome because the dunes are majestic. After that we drove to the other entrance right on the Roanoke Sound beach. This section was more about the water, and less about the dunes. Even so, it is still impressive. And to watch people parasail the Roanoke Sound was equally impressive. Make sure to dress accordingly for not only the temperature, but also the wind.
The Bodie Island Lighthouse is a historic structure built in 1848, that still operates today. Visitors can enjoy tours and scenic views of the surrounding area. Although some visitors may find the gift shop prices to be a bit high, it is important to note that most of the proceeds go towards maintaining the lighthouse and its grounds. The dock leading out into the marsh offers spectacular views as well.
What a wonderful lighthouse to visit. This makes only the second time in my life to come here, but they've improved it since I last came here in the early 2000's. Gift shop prices were a little high but given that most of the proceeds go to maintaining the lighthouse and the grounds makes it worth it. The dock that leads out into the marsh makes for a great view too. While the lighthouse itself was closed for our visit, I was not disappointed. I would like to come visit again someday.
Hudson Ball — Google review
Beautiful view from the top. YOU HAVE TO WAKE UP EARLY TO BUY TICKETS. You also must be at the base of the lighthouse 5-10 minutes BEFORE your reservation time. They only sell 8 tickets per 20 minute time slot. The rangers are pleasant and educational.
RasburryTe — Google review
Must see sight on OBX between Nags Head and Oregon Inlet. Park for free and walk the boardwalk to a beautiful view of the lighthouse and surrounding marshes. Enjoy seeing and hearing wildlife, particularly water fowl. There are nice restrooms with flush toilets & running water. Plenty of free parking. There is a ranger station, book store and gift shop within the historic keeper’s residence building. The lighthouse is generally open for climbing from Memorial Day to Labor Day, but the sign we saw today indicated that it will open in late April. This is a very well preserved historic site, surrounded by natural beauty. Don’t miss out!
LR P — Google review
This is one of my favorite lighthouses. You do need to purchase tickets in advance on the NP website. It takes a few minutes to set up an account, so plan ahead during busy seasons. The view at the top is well worth the climb. Good place to picnic, restrooms available.
Jo Covington Nencetti — Google review
It was the anniversary of the lighthouse we as a family got to see it lit the old fashioned, original way of lighting the watchtower. Also, they had posters as a no-cost gift for attending the anniversary of its unique and priceless standing. Peaceful, easy to walk up the island strait, great for photography of all kinds. I had a local man kindly brief my family & I on the history of the lighthouse & why it was unique, just as a courtesy! :) Wonderful view & private!
Summer B Edwards (White Coil) — Google review
The lighthouse is nestled in such a serene location, it's incredibly relaxing. The park service does an amazing job with the grounds and have such a trove of knowledge to talk about. Definitely ask a ranger about the story of the name of Bodie Island.
Do make sure you buy tickets online in the morning if you're planning on climbing the lighthouse, because it sells out regularly.
Alan Courtright — Google review
You can no longer walk up and get to climb this lighthouse. You must schedule in advance online and I did not realize that after driving down from Duck. It was still a great experience to get to see the lighthouse and we were allowed to walk into the bottom and see the stairwell and museum areas. There is also a boardwalk with an observation deck that has some beautiful views and wildlife to see.
Jenn ifer — Google review
This is another beautiful lighthouse in Cape Hatteras, NC. It has 216 steps, which I did not climb. They warn you that it's hot inside and children have to be a certain height and children cannot be carried in order to climb the stairs. I'm sure it's a beautiful sight at the very top but I won't know unless you post your pictures so I can see!! Also, try lifting the can of oil that the lighthouse keepers would have to carry 2 times a day up all those steps to fuel the light! Good luck:)
Cheryl Coldwell — Google review
Pretty cool, I never really saw a lighthouse in person before. If you want to walk up into the lighthouse you have to purchase your tickets at 7am online for it. When we got there, there was only 1 ticket left.
But it was still beautiful from the bottom. They have a little marsh walk that you stay on the platform to go look out at a lookout. Little nice adventure. And inside the house there is a little gift shop with information and more history facts.
Samantha Martin-Braginton — Google review
Must see if I’m the area. The visitor center is very nice, lots of history and information is available including the history of the lighthouse and information about the wildlife in the area. There is also a small gift shop with lots of nice items to choose from. The rangers working are very informative and friendly. Our son did the jr ranger program and we stayed for a ranger program which was well organized, perfect length and very educational. We really enjoyed our stop and would recommend the stop to anyone who loves the outer banks or lighthouses.
Savannah Perry — Google review
Such a beautiful lighthouse. The living quarters were large. There is no access to the upstairs area. Lots of artifacts in the main living quarters. You can also get a unique stamp for the passport for the national state parks.
Wendy George — Google review
The lighthouse is managed by NPS and it in a beautiful location offering several interesting views for photography. Best night photography here would be during the new moon when it’s really dark. Even better if it’s during the months when the Milky Way is visible. I noticed a source of light pollution where I’d look for the Milky Way so I can’t say this will be a great Milky Way photo location. I think the light pollution source is fairly new.
Victor Engle — Google review
The most underrated lighthouse on the Outer Banks. Its barely tucked away behind the trees making it feel more rural than it actually is. The grounds are neatly kept and open. The walkway allows you to view the marshes up close and is a great place to spot wildlife.
M.K. Productions — Google review
Great spot to stop and stretch your legs before you drive through the long stretch of park land. Beautiful light house and green space, with a small visitor center (no charge) and restrooms nearby. Enjoyed the short walk on the boardwalk out to the viewing tower- saw fish and crabs in the water. Didn't climb the lighthouse today (so hot!) but if you decide to go, get your ticket online before coming (otherwise you'll likely not get one). Fairly busy, but there is a good bit of parking and it's a place for only a short visit, so there is regular parking turnover.
Andy Beyer — Google review
Beautiful little spot. Careful for snakes. 😂 Don't worry, they have a lifted board walk just for that. Public restroom. Small fee for a tour and walk up the lighthouse. QR codes for convince. QR code to register your vehicle off roading. Lovely walk and views.
kittykat36s — Google review
Pretty lighthouse to visit. We got there too late to climb the inside, so we walked the marsh walk out to the lookout. Had a great view of the water and the lighthouse. Lots of pictures taken by my wife. Easy parking and also has restrooms to use.
Kenneth Fox — Google review
One of the beautiful gems of the East Coast! This lighthouse has a beautiful drive in, ample parking and so many incredible angles to view the lighthouse from. Make sure to walk the short nature trail!
Synergy Web Systems — Google review
We got there about 430 and they close at 5 so we didnt get to go in the lighthouse its self. They locked it up about 450 while we were in the gift shop museum area. We still enjoyed seeing it.
Tina Neice — Google review
One of the three lighthouses featuring the classic black and white paint scheme on the Hatteras National Seashore, the Bodie Island Lighthouse was built in 1872 and stands nearly 160 feet. The grounds around the lighthouse are spectacularly maintained. Climbing to the top is by purchasing tickets in advance.
Charles Pinney — Google review
A must see on your Outer Banks trip! We ended up making it just after the store closed, but we’re still able to walk around and take pictures. We were able to see the light function as well, just before sunset.
M Dean — Google review
Beautiful grounds. Lighthouse is easy to photograph. Short walk to an observation tower. Saw a family of muskrats near the boardwalk.
Gretchen Barger — Google review
Lovely all around. Great view from the top, although I would not recommend the climb for those who are height-averse. As explained by the guide before you go up, only one person can climb a single flight of stairs at a time and they do feel a bit rickety at times.
Jennette's Pier is a fishing pier on the Outer Banks of North Carolina that reopened in 2011 after being destroyed by Hurricane Isabel. The pier is known for its wide, clean beaches and offers fishing lessons. It celebrated its 10-year anniversary in 2021.
For only a couple dollars per person, you can experience beautiful aquarium exhibits with live fish, educational signs, interactive digital exhibits,
A gift shop, an upper level with beautiful lookout of the water (as long as there isn’t an event happening!), walk the pier and watch people catch fish, learn the history of the pier, and take pretty photos. A must do for all ages. Wear comfy shoes and bring a sweatshirt if you get cold easily.
Kate — Google review
We decided to check out the pier while we're still here in OBX. I loved the signage explaining the history of the pier and the small aquarium inside. The bathrooms were also clean and orderly.
Our only complaints were the $2 fee for each of us to walk on the pier just to check it out and the fact that they aren't pet friendly, even though it's completely outdoors. Since we have our small dog with us to explore, that was a deal breaker.
Shanah Bell — Google review
Loved walking this pier! A stunning day and they were hosting a event where 4 teams were competing for the production of producing clean drinking water from the ocean. We were informed of the event and it was such a special add-on to the experience.
Sylvia Balli — Google review
We had an amazing time. We came in for a day trip to enjoy my son’s 2nd birthday and it was perfect. We stopped at the small family market around the corner and then headed to the pier where we were able to find easy free parking and very close beach access. We had no troubles getting to the beach with our two year old and our belongings.
I would definitely recommend water shoes for this beach. The current was very strong and the ocean floor was full of shells and ocean debris which was unpleasant. I put my child in a life preserver and I felt it wasn’t too safe to go in at all, although there were many people a good ways into the water. The waves on this particular day were just absolutely brutal, I was knocked over and dragged a few times, immediately skinning up my knees and the ocean could have swallowed up my 2 year old very quickly, even in the very shallow surf. I normally love to frolic about in the waves, but even just the surf challenged every muscle in my body, my knees and ankles were even too weak too withstand it for any considerable amount of time.
Despite the aggressive waves, it’s still a great beach and the views are incredible and the memories will last forever. There are no rows and rows of high rise hotels obstructing the pristine views. The other beach goers were chill and friendly. Everyone is happy on the beach!
I highly recommend this experience! Just bring some water shoes, sand toys for the youngsters, and your favorite bevvy.
There were many treasures to behold in the surf and sand. I would definitely provide my toddler a sand bucket and shovel next time, so he can busy himself making moats and sand castles.
Jessica Wood — Google review
We always stroll the pier when we're here. Great walk to experience & different prices for passes depending upon your need. Gift shop is quaint with lots of toys & fishing items. Benches all over & is a fun expedition! Only $2 a person to walk on it but that pass good for full day! Small tube aquarium with fish details in common area. Easy park & walk!
Rebecca Hall — Google review
Awesome place and time sweet gift shop great views from the pier. Plenty of people fishing and getting rays and skates small blue fish and spotted trout. Great day awesome time had my Jeep with me also known as #smokey5120 thank u for the great time
Jason Boria — Google review
This enormous pier was a fantastic experience. There is a coffee shop, gift store, and small aquarium accompanied by placards and posters that talk about the history of the area and the pier. Out on the main pier, you can take in a beautiful view of the ocean. It is absolutely gorgeous! We even got to see dolphins not very far away from the pier. I highly recommend visiting! 👍👍
Dan Harrison — Google review
7/29/22 This is a fantastic pier which has wind turbines that generate the electricity for the pier's lighting. It is the longest pier of the seven piers on the Outer Banks reaching out 1,000 feet into deep water.
It's very popular for tourists and fishermen. The pier has a blanket license for anglers and licenses can be purchased at the register with a valid driver's license and payment.
The ocean and beach views are beautiful especially at sundown. The beaches here are wide and there is a public bathhouse, outdoor showers and a lifeguard.
A gift shop is located at the entrance and admission to the pier is just $2.00 for adults and $1.00 for children under 10 for the day. Hours of operation are 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. from May to October. Pets are not allowed on the pier.
Tommie Frasher — Google review
This is not just another pier! Jeanette's pier pier is an experience definitely recommended when visiting OBX. The aquarium, the gift shop, and the pier with amazing views all day. It is very relaxing to just sit and take in the scenery and the people. Must see spot and should be on your list of to-do!
Matthew Truett — Google review
There seemed to be a lot of questions regarding the beach at Nags Head Island. We visited this place in mid of June a week ago and we had a wonderful time there. The beach is one of the great beaches i ever visited. There wasn't any litter or dirt beach is very clean and neat. In fact, its more beautiful in night time if you visit it at new moon night 🌙.. i love this place sharing some pictures you can see .. its amazing and incredible scenes...
Muhammad Adeel Anjum — Google review
I have been here a couple of times. I think this is a great pier to walk on and to fish. The first time I was here we saw three whales swimming past the end of the pier (which is rare to see). Today we saw a few fisherman catching fish at the end of the pier. The pier is pretty clean and the views are great if you want to take pictures with your family. There is a 2 dollar fee per person to enter onto the pier. I liked seeing the sun set, watching people swimming on the beach, and just sitting on the benches. I would recommend coming here for anyone vacationing in the area.
M B — Google review
Not a bad spot on the beach. The bathhouse is nice, and is much better than most places on the OBX. The area under the pier also has lots of shade, which is great if you need it. The beach does get pretty busy by the middle of the day, so I’d definitely arrive early if you want a good spot.
Micah Walters — Google review
Very nice place with great surroundings. 2 dollar entrance fee to visit pier. Lots of parking lots.
Oliver — Google review
My photos show what you can see without paying the fee to walk onto the pier. Outside walls have the interesting history of the pier. A large brass sea turtle makes for a good photo with the kids. Inside there are restrooms, a mini aquarium, and a gift shop with apparel, kids binoculars, toys, fishing gear, and snacks.
Charise Van Liew — Google review
Annual tradition for our family. We love the interactive touch screen information panels that accompany the incredible tanks. The pier itself has lovely commemorative fish shaped plaques inlaid in the wood walkway. The view is awesome and the beach is always enjoyable. Ample parking is a big plus.
Michelle Cuccherini — Google review
Jennette's Pier is a fabulous location for a wedding on the Outer Banks! We truly enjoyed photographing Isabel & Jeremiah's wedding there, so many amazing locations for photos and some of the friendliest staff! We can't wait to photograph here again!
Ryan Moser (Ryan & Rach Photography) — Google review
I’ve never been a big fan of piers that make you pay to walk out on and that’s why I could only give four stars. Other than the payment, the pier and gift shop are nice and clean. Plenty of seating and bathrooms.
James Brown — Google review
$2 per person to get onto the pier. The gift shop and little aquarium inside are free. We walked to the end and got to see some Dolphins in the ocean!
Jay Mitchell — Google review
We visited Jannette's Pier on a windy cold December day while on a road trip up the Outer Banks. There was a $2 charge per person to walk out on the pier. There were two fishermen and some dolphin spotters besides us. In the water in a wetsuit was a person body boarding the surf. They looked like they were having fun despite what must have been very cold water. I bet this place is packed in the summer.
Charles Ragan — Google review
One of the nicest piers I've been to. Great beach area too. There is a decent amount of parking but it does fill up fast during tourist season.
Synergy Web Systems — Google review
Beautiful day for a visit! This was our first time here, and I was pleasantly surprised at the overall experience. It cost $2 per person to walk out on the pier for the day. They have a nice beach access area and outdoor showers and bathrooms. They have sheltered areas to sit under along the pier. There were plenty of benches to sit on. There was also an indoor gift shop area and even a huge fish tank area with more bathrooms. Very nice! It's definitely worth visiting!