Climb the largest sand dune on the East Coast

Experience the high winds and shifting sands of the desert without ever leaving the North Carolina coast. Located at Nags Head on the Outer Banks, Jockey’s Ridge State Park features the tallest active sand dune system in the eastern United States. Comprised of three peaks, shifting winds constantly reshape the 420 acres of dunes making it a new experience for visitors each day. Those same winds make Jockey’s Ridge one of the best places to fly kites on the Outer Banks, and you’ll often see a horizon dotted with kites of all shapes and sizes. Kites aren’t the only things taking flight at Jockey’s Ridge; free permits are available for hang gliders ready to surf the sky. After a full day of flying, gliding, sand-boarding and picnicking, finish your visit by watching a stunner sunset from the top of the ridge.