7 days in North Carolina Coast Itinerary

Most visitors take a trip to Nags Head to enjoy the beach, but this Outer Banks town offers more than just waterside entertainment.

Eschew the tourist crowds and head to Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse and Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge. Get out of town with these interesting Nags Head side-trips: Corolla (Off-Road Tours, Currituck Beach Lighthouse and Museum, &more). There's more to do: take in the dramatic natural features at Jockey's Ridge State Park and visit a coastal fixture at Bodie Island Lighthouse.

To see reviews, ratings, other places to visit, and other tourist information, you can read our Nags Head holiday maker.

New York City to Nags Head is an approximately 3-hour flight. You can also drive; or do a combination of bus and car. In July, plan for daily highs up to 34°C, and evening lows to 26°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 3rd (Mon) to allow time to drive to Wilmington.

Holiday in Willington to discover a charming coastal city filled with azalea gardens, historical neighborhoods, and cozy cafes.

Discover out-of-the-way places like Southport Pier and RIverwalk and Cape Fear Museum. There's lots more to do: learn about all things military at Battleship North Carolina, wander the streets of Historic District, see the interesting displays at Museum of the Bizarre, and stop by Cape Fear Serpentarium.

To see ratings, where to stay, more things to do, and other tourist information, you can read our Wilmington holiday planning tool.

You can drive from Nags Head to Wilmington in 5 hours. Other options are to drive; or fly; or do a combination of car and bus. In July, daily temperatures in Wilmington can reach 37°C, while at night they dip to 26°C. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 7th (Fri) so you can catch the flight back home.