Outer Banks History

The Outer Banks is the 150-mile stretch of peninsulas and barrier islands off the North Carolina mainland. A place of natural unspoiled beauty. A home to lighthouses and wild ponies. The largest protected seashore and the highest natural sand dune on the Atlantic coast. And everywhere is evidence of the area's rich history.

Long before Pirate's Cove, Roanoke Island was home to the first English settlement in 1585, the mysterious Lost Colony. The infamous pirate Blackbeard prowled these waters.The Graveyard of the Atlantic is here right off of our coast. In 1903, the Wright brothers gave birth to man-powered flight here at the Outer Banks in Kitty Hawk, NC. From the earliest native Americans to present-day visitors, people have been drawn in waves to the land, wind and water known as the Outer Banks, NC.

The Outer Banks is the site of the first English settlement.  Sir Walter Raleigh, John White and 116 colonists landed on Hatteras Island on June 22, 1587.  They found the Island to be low and unprotected.  They sailed to Roanoke Island an inland island which was protected by barrier islands to start their new home.  John White sailed back to England for more supplies.   When he was able to return three years later there was no trace of the Colony.  It is a mystery as to what happened which began the story of “The Lost Colony.” 

Whether you're interested in some of the best fishing in the world, great golf, long wide sandy beaches, or just getting away to relax, the Outer Banks provides the perfect beach vacation. American history, educational attractions, state and national parks surround Pirate's Cove!

In December 17, 1903 the Wright Brothers made their first successful flight on the Outer Banks in Kitty Hawk.  The age of aviation was born.  This became the Outer Banks eternal claim to history. 

The Outer Banks is home to four distinct lighthouses: the Bodie Island Lighthouse, Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, Currituck Beach Lighthouse, and the Ocracoke Lighthouse.

To discover more about the history of the Outer Banks of North Carolina visit the
Outer Banks History Center located at the Roanoke Island Festival Park.  The center features an outstanding collection of material relating to North Carolina history and culture, especially the Outer Banks and coastal plain region.

Learn more about Outer Banks attractions or Outer Banks events and get ready for your next Outer Banks vacation. And be sure to browse our large selection of Outer Banks rentals if you need a place to stay while you're here.