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While these visitors will take different interstates and highways to reach the coastal area – like I-95 or I-81 – they’ll generally all land on the outskirts of Norfolk, and from there follow 168/158 across the North Carolina border to the “Inner Banks” before eventually connecting with the Wright Brothers Memorial Bridge and the barrier island beaches. Addition routes include US Highway 158, which veers towards Elizabeth City and is a slightly longer, but which is a more leisurely-paced drive.įrom the North – Many visitors to the Outer Banks hail from the northern states, including Virginia, Pennsylvania, Ohio, New Jersey, and even New York.
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From here, guests can linger and enjoy the Ocracoke scene, or follow NC Highway 12 north to the free 1-hour ferry to Hatteras Island, and eventually, the rest of the Outer Banks.įrom the West – Visitors heading to the Outer Banks from the central and western regions of North Carolina and beyond will typically follow US Highway 64 which makes a direct beeline across the state. After cruising up the coastline and passing by other tempting beach communities like Cape Fear and the Crystal Coast, visitors will connect with one of two ferry routes – the Cedar Island Ferry or the Swan Quarter ferry – before embarking on a roughly 2.5 hour cruise across the Pamlico Sound and landing on Ocracoke Island. Routes to the Outer Banksįrom the South – Visitors who are heading to the Outer Banks from the southern states have a scenic drive in store. Whether you come to the Outer Banks from the north, south, or west, you’ll find that there’s tons to discover along the way. So instead of making a beeline to the beach, take some time to check out the variety of activities and sites that are found along both the main routes and just slightly off the beaten path. The drive to your Outer Banks destination can and should be part of the fun of heading to the beach, and with the wealth of roadside attractions, iconic destinations, and hidden gems, it’s easy to transform a long drive into an integral part of your getaway.
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