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Outer Banks road signYou’ll be watching one of America’s great wild and scenic landscapes unfold as you travel the 138 driving miles and 25 ferry miles of the Outer Banks National Scenic Byway in coastal North Carolina. 

Known as one of the most beautiful stretches of pavement and water in America, the route includes two ferries, over 20 coastal villages and miles and miles of stunning scenery in every direction.

Map of Outer Banks National Scenic Byway

Before starting the Byway, visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial at Kitty Hawk, where America’s first flight took place. Explore lighthouses at Bodie Island and Ocracoke Island and climb 257 steps to the top of the world’s tallest brick lighthouse at Cape Hatteras. Spot the wildlife at Cedar Island and Pea Island National Wildlife Refuges. 

At the end of the island roadway, there’s the charming village of Ocracoke and its 16 miles of gorgeous beach. Sit back, hear the waves crash, or take a walk through the forest that was once the home of Blackbeard! Over 40 new exhibit panels tell the story of the Byway along the road.  

Outer Banks National Scenic Byway - 138 driving miles and 25 ferry miles make up this byway in North Carolina