On the Outer Banks, you can capture more than just memories. This is the perfect place to slow down, take notice, and snap a picture. The crashing waves, mountainous dunes, and towering lighthouses just beg to be photographed. Spice up your camera roll even more with cozy coffee shops and majestic murals that add charm to your visual OBX story. Read on to find 10 of the most Instagram-worthy views on the Outer Banks.
1. Jockey's Ridge Sand Dunes
Climb America’s tallest active sand dune system and find the perfect spot to strike a pose! It's easy to catch hang gliders or kite flyers to enhance your photo, and Jockey's Ridge looks extra spectacular at sunset. Be sure to respect the park hours, which change seasonally.
2. Cozy Coffee Shops
The Outer Banks is home to many locally owned coffee shops that make great settings for Instagram pictures. Check out Ashley’s Espresso Parlour, Shore Coffee Roasters, Front Porch Cafe, and other coffee shops to find your favorite vibe. While you're there, be sure to order something fun, as this could be a great addition to any photo.
3. Any OBX Lighthouse
There are multiple lighthouses and life saving stations in Dare County, including Bodie Island Lighthouse, Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, and the Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse. The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, which began a restoration project in 2023, is America’s tallest lighthouse, making it a great spot for a dramatic, yet beautiful, backdrop. If you're feeling funny, you can even use any of the lighthouses as a prop in your picture!
4. Majestic Murals
About 20 murals and large art installments have been created across the Outer Banks that span throughout an astounding 70 miles. They can be found tucked on the sides of shops, like the Reclaimed Wave at the Seagreen Gallery or the Butterfly Wings at the Kitty Hawk Super Wings store. No matter where you are, there's bound to be a mural near you.
5. The Duck Soundside Boardwalk
Another scenic place for photography is the Duck Soundside Boardwalk. This boardwalk spans from the southern end of the Village and continues .62 miles to end at the Waterfront Shops. With marsh grasses by your side and water beneath your feet, you're destined to capture the perfect picture here.
6. Any OBX Pier
The Outer Banks has 7 picturesque piers that make stunning, Insta-worthy settings. While they are especially photogenic at sunrise and sunset, they offer views for a beautiful shot all day long. Be sure to note that not all piers have free entry, but you can still snap photos from the nearby areas.
7. The Wright Brothers National Memorial
The Wright Brothers National Memorial commemorates the site where the Wright Brothers had their first successful flight on December 17, 1903. Here, where history meets the horizon, you can find numerous spots for magnificent and historical picture-taking. Be sure to respect the park hours!
8. Ice Cream Shops
The assortment of ice cream options on the Outer Banks is no joke. Each of the towns and villages boast their own unique ice cream shops. Be sure to check out The Chill Spot, Noosa Scoops, Surfin' Spoon, and more to unearth your chosen atmosphere for the perfect picture-taking. How many spots on the Ice Cream Trail can you photograph?
9. Any Beach, Any Time
Don't worry, the beach was not forgotten. Ocean views may be the prettiest pictures you can take on the Outer Banks. From sunrise to sunset, and everything in between, the natural scenery on the beach is an absolute staple for your OBX Insta posts. Check out this list of beach accesses to select your preferred access point!
10. Views fromYour OBX Stay
Each of the many places to stay on the Outer Banks offer something special. Whether it's an elegant interior, a gorgeous pool, or a show-stopping view, the opportunities for photos within your own vacation space are endless. What picture will you take first?