One of the largest Outer Banks communities, Kitty Hawk is the vacation destination for millions of tourists each year. Wide, natural beaches and clean Atlantic waters of gorgeous blue-green invite visitors to come, relax, and forget about the world. The spectacular East Coast sun greets early risers as it emerges above the glassy Atlantic, disturbed only by the dorsal fins of passing dolphins. Quiet evenings in moonlit Kitty Hawk, cooled by mild ocean breezes and hushed by breaking waves, are ideal for shoreline strolling.
Most activities in Kitty Hawk, such as kayak eco-tours, fly-fishing and dolphin watching boat trips, will immerse you in the incomparable natural beauty of the Outer Banks. Up for a lofty view of the Outer Banks? Give your vacation some air by kiteboarding over the rolling crests or hang-gliding over the massive dunes of Kitty Hawk! Test your angling skills fly-fishing or, for a real adventure, head to the deep water with a group on a fishing charter. Take a few swings at an outdoor driving range, or challenge the family to a lively mini-golf tournament.
Need to unwind after all this activity? Redefine relaxation and pamper yourself at Kitty Hawk’s luxurious full-service spas before hitting the shops and boutiques. Local merchants with an eye for fashion and flair have stocked the goods to make sure you won’t return home empty-handed! Whether you’re looking for a fun souvenir or a unique piece of shore décor, your Outer Banks vacation will surely be remembered for years. Custom charm bracelets, individually adorned with personality, and exquisitely crafted earrings and necklaces make for glimmering Kitty Hawk keepsakes.
After all this shopping, you know you’re getting hungry and Kitty Hawk chefs have been busy preparing award-winning dishes not to be had elsewhere. Heading to the shore? Grab a flavorful salad or a deli-sliced sandwich and a few cold beverages for a refreshing oceanfront picnic (but no glass on the beach please!). Want perfectly grilled steaks and burgers served with your favorite sides or gourmet pizza, smothered in toppings, delivered to your door? How about fresh seafood – and we mean caught-that-morning fresh – prepared any way you can imagine or endless plates of all-you-can-eat crab legs and shrimp? Whatever your ideal menu, Kitty Hawk restaurants have it!
Kitty Hawk Woods Coastal Reserve
Contents
Kitty Hawk Woods Coastal Reserve, with over 1,800 acres of maritime forest, is located between Highway 158 and the Currituck Sound. Kitty Hawk Reserve, a lesser-known Outer Banks park like Jockey’s Ridge, is a secluded area offering quiet solitude from the busy summer beaches. The reserve is open all year, and the off seasons (fall, winter, and early spring) are ideal for exploring the reserve in cooler temperatures and without having to contend with mosquitos. There are numerous outdoor activities available due to the reserve’s unique combination of forest, swamp, and sound habitats. Kayaking, SUP, horseback riding, hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching are all permitted in the park, as are dogs.
Ocean Views from Kitty Hawk
Kitty Hawk is distinct from the other Outer Banks towns in that, due to its low dune line, it has some of the best ocean views. Most oceanside and oceanfront Outer Banks vacation rentals in Kitty Hawk have water views. Another fantastic feature of Kitty Hawk’s beaches is the abundance of public beach accesses, many of which have accompanying parking lots.
Golfing in Kitty Hawk
There are several golf courses on the Outer Banks, one of which is located in Kitty Hawk. Sea Scape Golf Links is just a block back from the oceanfront and features dramatic elevation changes. Sea Scape is open all year and is a fun way to enjoy the scenery of the Outer Banks from the green.
Dining at Kitty Hawk
Kitty Hawk offers a wide range of dining options, with something to suit everyone’s tastes. Try the tacos at Bad Bean Baja Grill or the Rundown Cafe’s namesake soup on Beach Road. Trio is a popular wine, beer, and cheese bar that features live music all year. Because Kitty Hawk is located between Southern Shores and Kill Devil Hills, you and your family are only a short drive away from even more dining options.