• Where is Kitty Hawk located?
    • The town of Kitty Hawk is in the Outer Banks region of North Carolina.
  • What kind of environment does Kitty Hawk offer?
    • It offers a relaxing environment for both tourists and year-round local residents with a variety of things to do.
  • What type of food is Kitty Hawk known for?
    • Thanks to its location along the East Coast, the town is home to restaurants serving delicious fresh seafood.

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1. Kitty Hawk Woods Coastal Reserve


Hike forest trails and spot wildlife during a peaceful nature trip.

Kitty Hawk Woods Coastal Reserve

© stocktr/stock.adobe.com

The Kitty Hawk Woods Coastal Reserve offers a haven of natural beauty and quiet landscapes.

  • The large stretch of primarily Albemarle Soundside terrain of the reserve is home to one of the Outer Banks region's largest samples of undeveloped, natural maritime forest.
  • Visitors can also find many recreational opportunities within the Kitty Hawk Woods Coastal Reserve, such as hiking the trails through dense woods, boating and paddling on the Albemarle Sound and exploring the rugged shoreline, and more.
  • There are several tour companies in the area that lead kayaking eco tours through the reserve’s brackish canals as well. Map

2. Kitty Hawk Fire Rescue


Visit for community events or admire the station on a quick educational stop.

Kitty Hawk Fire Rescue

© Kitty Hawk Lifesaving Station #7

Built back in 1912, the historic Kitty Hawk Fire Rescue was in service in the Outer Banks until 1946. Crews that have helped numerous shipwrecked victims have been housed at this station.

  • Today, Kitty Hawk Fire Rescue has been authentically preserved and serves as unique accommodations with upgraded modern amenities.
  • The house is located near two great spots for surfing and features panoramic, 180-degree, unobstructed views of the ocean.
  • Many people stop by this historic building that has withstood the tests of time and weather to see where members of their family had once worked.

Where You'll Find it: Kitty Hawk Lifesaving Station number 7, 3807 N Virginia Dare Trail, Kitty Hawk, NC 27949, Phone: 707-847-6297

3. Spanky's Grille


Grab burgers and enjoy a cheap, casual bite with the family.

Spanky's Grille

© Spanky's Grille

Spanky's Grille is a great spot to grab a bite to eat for an affordable price in the town of Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. Visitors shouldn’t be fooled by the slogan of “cheap eats,” however, as the restaurant has received the designation of “Top 10 Burger Joint in North Carolina” for many consecutive years, as well as one of the “Top 5 Hot Dog Stands.” Spanky’s Grille has become a local favorite and offers daily specials and tasty “southern comfort food.”

Spanky's Grille, 4105 N Croatan Hwy, Kitty Hawk, NC 27949, Phone: 252-261-1917

4. Rundown Cafe


Savor island-inspired dishes and ocean views on a relaxing summer outing.

Rundown Cafe

© Rundown Cafe

The Rundown Cafe serves local fresh seafood with a touch of “global island influence” for both lunch and dinner in Kitty Hawk. Made-from-scratch dishes are offered at reasonable prices and good portions, combined with friendly service within a casual, relaxed atmosphere.

The deck with its views of the ocean is an ideal place to sit back with a refreshing cocktail. Open between the months of February and November, tourists and locals alike can dine on Caribbean and Polynesian fusion fare and drinks at the authentic surf bar. The Rundown Cafe is open Thursday through Monday for lunch and dinner.

Rundown Cafe, 5218 Virginia Dare Trail, Kitty Hawk, NC 27949, Phone: 252-255-0026

5. Black Pelican Oceanfront Restaurant


Dine seaside and enjoy a romantic dinner with stunning coastal sights.

Black Pelican Oceanfront Restaurant

© Black Pelican Oceanfront Restaurant

The Black Pelican Oceanfront Restaurant is one of the premier restaurants of the Outer Banks in North Carolina. Full of rustic charm and character, the restaurant offers panoramic views of the ocean from both the outdoor deck and the comfortable dining rooms and invites guests to walk through maritime history as they savor a memorable and delicious meal. The menu at the Black Pelican Oceanfront Restaurant serves wood oven pizzas, sandwiches, vegetarian dishes, steaks, and fresh seafood, as well as daily specials for lunch and dinner. There is also a kids menu available and a full-service bar.

Black Pelican Oceanfront Restaurant , 3848 N Virginia Dare Trail, Kitty Hawk, NC 27949, Phone: 252-261-3171

The Kitty Hawk Woods Coastal Reserve is home to diverse animal and plant life, while the beach provides plenty of opportunities for seaside fun. Kitty Hawk, North Carolina is also a haven for watersports enthusiasts, including standup paddle boarding, parasailing, boating, and surfing.


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