Enjoy a Classic Beach Vacation in Gorgeous Nags Head. Visitors have been relaxing and playing on the beaches of Nags Head for generations. We invite you and your loved ones to experience a vacation on the wide, sandy beaches of Nags Head.
Beach Rules and Regulations
Leashed dogs are allowed on the beach year-round. Leashes cannot exceed 10 feet in length.
Dispose of all trash in proper receptacles, including pet waste.
Fireworks, beach fires, and bonfires are not permitted.
Do not enter the water when red flags are flying.
Beach pit fires are allowed on the beach in Nags Head with a permit. For more information, contact Nags Head Fire and Rescue at (252) 441-5909.
Do not walk or play on the dunes. Use designated beach walkways to access the beach.
Attend to and refill all beach holes.
Personal Motorized Watercraft (PWCs) are permitted on the ocean; however, PWC launch restrictions apply. From May 1 through September 30, PWCs must be launched by manpower only. From October 1 through April 30, when beach driving is permitted, PWCs may be launched using a vehicle with a Town-issued beach driving permit. PWCs must proceed straight in or out from shore without causing a wake or exceeding 5 mph. They must not be operated within 600 feet of the sound or ocean shoreline.
Vehicles are allowed on the beach from October 1 through April 30 with a Town-issued permit. Driving on the dunes is prohibited.
Beach wheelchairs are available for use on the Town of Nags Head beaches. For more information, call Nags Head Fire Department at (252) 441-5909.
Remove all personal items daily, including tents, chairs, and umbrellas, by 7:00 pm, or they will be removed and discarded.
Nags Head Lifeguard Stands:
Roving lifeguards (4x4 trucks and ATVs) are on patrol from April through October. Lifeguards are on duty at fixed stands from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Lifeguard stands are located at the following locations:
Albatross Street
Abalone Street
Bonnett Street (bath house)
Epstein Street (bath house)
Enterprise Street
Forrest Street
Gray Eagle Street
Gulfstream Street
Hargrove Street (bath house)
Hollowell Street
Ida Street
Indigo Street
Juncos Street
Limulus Street
Town Hall
Nags Head Beach Accesses:
Beach accesses in Nags Head are abundant, and most have ample parking. Each lifeguard stand location listed above is a public beach access. Lifeguard stands are subject to change, please visit Nags Head Ocean Rescue’s website for the most current information. In addition to that list, the following beach accesses are also available in Nags Head.