Despite the apparent inaccessibility, the Outer Banks has been populated for thousands of years. Although today's year-round population barely tops 46,000 people, the area draws nearly 250,000 people each week during the height of the summer season. Many consider the banks a vacation paradise, owing to its wide sandy beaches, unspoiled natural terrain, abundant clean water, and relatively mild temperatures. Aside from the allure of the untamed beach, recreational activities include all watersports, great East Coast surfing, world-class sport fishing, and world-class golf. Since the towns of Kitty Hawk and Kill Devil Hills are home to the world's first powered flight, the area is a magnet for aviators and hang gliders.
Towns and communities along the Outer Banks include (listed from north to south):
Outer Banks Communities
Hatteras Island:
Ocracoke Island: