Points of Interest

Jockey's Ridge Sound Access

Jockey's Ridge State Park's quieter side, facing the Roanoke Sound instead of the ocean and dunes

(50)

Nags Head, NC

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Most visitors to Jockey's Ridge State Park head straight for the ocean-side entrance off Croatan Highway and climb the big dune. The sound access is the park's other side — a separate entry on the west end that opens onto the Roanoke Sound instead of the Atlantic. It's a quieter corner of the same park, home to the tallest natural sand dune system on the East Coast, but the draw here is the water, not the summit.

This is one of the better sunset spots on the northern Outer Banks: wide-open sky over the water, with the sound and the mainland tree line filling the horizon. A boardwalk leads through maritime thicket and marsh down to the shoreline, and the shallow, protected water here draws paddleboarders, kayakers, and windsurfers looking for calmer conditions than the ocean side offers.

Part of Jockey's Ridge State Park — no entrance fee, as with all North Carolina state parks
Roanoke Sound shoreline access on the park's western side, separate from the main dune entrance
Better suited to sunset-watching and paddling than dune climbing

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4.9

50 reviews

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Dorleita Ballard

2 months ago

One of our favorite beaches to visit at Nags Head. The grandchildren can safely play.

Steven M

a year ago

Amazing views! Public Sound access, parking lot and stairs/ramp access. The view of the Sound and Dunes were amazing. There is a few hiking trails that go through Jockey Ridge State Park. Tons to do and see.

Tara (Tara)

2 years ago

This is my absolute favorite place to kayak and snorkel in the OBX. The water is shallow and you can walk out so far. This year I did unexpectedly get snipped by a crab while snorkeling, but it added to the adventure. We found a nice private spot to hang out and relax for hours. The surrounding nature is incredible too. But parking can be difficult if you do not arrive early as there are around 27 parking spots.

Matt Olpinski

3 years ago

This was our first time here, but it was quiet and peaceful. Water was distinctly warmer and the beach is wide, but had more seaweed and the water was more brown. Still some tiny waves and swimmable if you’re up for it. If you have small kids or want to watch sunset, this might be an ideal option in Nags Head!

Brittany “Binky” J

3 years ago

Nice beach. Not crowded and water isnt as rough as the ocean side. Much better for kids. Has a sand bar you can walk out on the water. Did find jellyfish.