Outer Banks Pier
Iconic piers offering fishing, stunning ocean views, and a classic Outer Banks coastal experience for all ages.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm seas & fewer crowds
Outer Banks Pier
Best Time
Calm seas & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic piers offering fishing, stunning ocean views, and a classic Outer Banks coastal experience for all ages.
"A hidden gem among OBX piers. Decent enough fishing. great views and free to go out on."
🎣 Fishing License Needed
Remember to get your fishing license before casting a line. Rentals are available on most piers.
🚶 Free to Walk On
Enjoy the views and ocean breeze! Most piers are free for walking and sightseeing.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Jennette's Pier
Nags Head
A popular spot for fishing, sightseeing, and enjoying ocean views. Great for families and anglers alike.
+1
Avalon Fishing Pier
Kill Devil Hills
Known for its scenic beauty and opportunities to spot marine life. A peaceful spot for a stroll or some fishing.
+1
Avon Fishing Pier
Avon
This pier offers a classic Outer Banks fishing experience with potential for diverse catches and beautiful coastal scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Pier Etiquette & Access
Fishing & Viewing Tips
Keep an eye out for marine life like dolphins! Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎣 Fishing License Needed
Remember to get your fishing license before casting a line. Rentals are available on most piers.
🚶 Free to Walk On
Enjoy the views and ocean breeze! Most piers are free for walking and sightseeing.
🐬 Dolphin Sightings
Keep an eye out for dolphins and other marine life while you're on the pier!
☀️ Sun Protection
The sun can be intense. Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for a comfortable visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎣 Fishing License Needed
Remember to get your fishing license before casting a line. Rentals are available on most piers.
🚶 Free to Walk On
Enjoy the views and ocean breeze! Most piers are free for walking and sightseeing.
🐬 Dolphin Sightings
Keep an eye out for dolphins and other marine life while you're on the pier!
☀️ Sun Protection
The sun can be intense. Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for a comfortable visit.
🍽️ Pier Dining Options
Some piers have restaurants offering great food and ocean views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Reviews for Outer Banks piers are generally positive, highlighting them as great spots for fishing, scenic views, and family fun. Many appreciate the free access for walking and the chance to see marine life. However, some visitors have reported negative experiences with staff at pier restaurants, citing unfriendliness and poor service.
"This is the best pier restaurant on the OBX! We live here and have ate at all of them. Great atmosphere, friendly service and the food was delicious. Enjoy!"
Lori Keating
"I don’t usually write reviews, but our experience at this restaurant was so unpleasant, I felt it needed to be shared. From the moment we walked in, the staff seemed uninterested and borderline rude. We weren’t greeted properly, and it felt like we were an inconvenience rather than welcomed guests.
When we asked simple questions about the menu, the server responded with impatience and attitude. It completely soured the mood. Food aside (which was okay at best), the way we were treated made the whole evening uncomfortable. Hospitality is a huge part of dining out, and unfortunately, this place failed miserably.
There are too many great restaurants around to waste time or money on one that doesn't respect its customers. We won’t be back."
Stephanie Boice
"Great place for any angler to fish. Ask for “Shark-bait”or Jacob for any tips or just a warm welcoming conversation. He made the place feel like home! He truly cares about the experience as a whole! The whole family fished out here for the week and we had so much fun. Catching sea mullets and decent blue fish! We saw dolphins, rays, and some shark! Pier fishing at its best! Bonus walks on this pier are free!"
Ashley Kennedy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Most Outer Banks piers are accessible by car via NC-12. Parking is usually available near the pier entrances. Consider ride-sharing services if available in the area. +1
Public transportation options are limited on the Outer Banks. Driving is the most common way to reach the piers.
Use GPS navigation with the pier's name and town (e.g., 'Jennette's Pier, Nags Head'). Online maps are very helpful.
Yes, most piers have dedicated parking areas, though they can fill up during peak season.
Depending on your location, some hotels and rentals are within walking distance, especially in towns like Nags Head.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, walking on most Outer Banks piers is free! Enjoy the views and atmosphere without a fee.
Fishing fees vary by pier, typically ranging from $10-$20 per person per day. Check individual pier websites for current pricing.
Yes, a North Carolina fishing license is required for anyone 16 or older. You can purchase one online or at many bait and tackle shops.
Most piers are open 24 hours, especially during peak season, but it's best to check the specific pier's hours online.
Yes, most piers offer rental fishing rods and tackle for those who don't bring their own.
🎫 🎣 Fishing & Activities
Common catches include bluefish, flounder, sea mullet, Spanish mackerel, and sometimes larger species like tuna.
Early mornings and late afternoons often yield the best results, but fishing can be good at any time.
Start with simple bait like shrimp or squid. Ask experienced anglers or pier staff for advice!
Enjoy scenic walks, bird watching, dolphin spotting, photography, and simply relaxing by the ocean.
Yes, various fishing tournaments and events are held throughout the year. Check local event listings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Some piers feature restaurants or snack bars offering seafood and other casual dining options.
Typically, you'll find fresh seafood, burgers, sandwiches, and local specialties.
Policies vary, but generally, bringing your own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages is allowed. Alcohol policies differ.
Yes, the towns surrounding the piers, like Nags Head and Kill Devil Hills, have a wide variety of restaurants. +1
Fried seafood baskets, fish tacos, and burgers are often popular choices.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting. Cloudy days can also create moody, atmospheric shots.
Capture the ocean views, crashing waves, fishermen in action, marine life, and the pier structures themselves.
Look for unique angles of the waves, the vast ocean horizon, and the local wildlife.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can capture distant wildlife or fishing action.
Drone usage is often restricted around piers and public beaches. Always check local regulations before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The free access for walking means everyone can enjoy the ocean views and sea air without an extra cost. Pack snacks and drinks, and be prepared for the possibility of spotting dolphins, which is always a thrill for children. 🎣 Anglers & Fishing Enthusiasts
Ensure you have your NC fishing license and consider renting gear if needed. 📸 Photographers & Scenery Lovers
Capture the dramatic coastal landscapes, the dynamic ocean, and the architectural lines of the piers themselves. Keep an eye out for wildlife, as dolphins and seabirds are frequently spotted. The moody weather on stormy days can also provide unique and dramatic photographic subjects. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Fishing on the Outer Banks Piers
Beyond the common catches, some lucky anglers have reported spotting larger species like tuna and even sharks. The experience is enhanced by the chance to see marine life such as dolphins and rays swimming near the pier.
While fishing is the main draw, the piers also serve as excellent vantage points for sightseeing and photography. The panoramic ocean views, especially during sunrise and sunset, are breathtaking.
The sound of the waves, the salty air, and the distant horizon create a truly immersive coastal experience. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just looking for a peaceful way to enjoy the OBX coastline, the fishing piers offer a memorable adventure. Beyond Fishing: Exploring OBX Piers
Many visitors enjoy simply strolling along, watching the waves crash, and observing the local birdlife. The scenic beauty is a major draw, with opportunities to spot dolphins, rays, and other marine creatures playing in the water below. For those interested in local culture and shopping, some piers are located near charming shops and galleries. Seagreen Art Gallery in Nags Head, for instance, is a local favorite for artisan crafts, offering a unique shopping experience away from typical tourist traps.
Several piers also feature restaurants and cafes, providing a perfect spot to enjoy a meal with an ocean view. These establishments often serve fresh seafood and local specialties, making them a convenient and enjoyable dining option.
Whether you're looking for a casual bite or a more substantial meal, the pier dining experience offers a unique perspective on the coastal lifestyle. The combination of natural beauty, local charm, and culinary delights makes the Outer Banks piers a multifaceted destination for all types of travelers. 
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