Located just south of Nags Head, Coquina Beach is a refreshingly undeveloped stretch of shoreline that's close to the central Outer Banks towns of Kill Devil Hills, Nags Head, and Kitty Hawk, but feels like it's miles away.
Coquina Beach is located along NC Highway 12, approximately 8 miles south of the Nags Head town borders, and is part of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. As a result, the beach is completely free of commercial development, allowing beach-goers to enjoy endless stretches of sand from the ocean to the natural dune line.
Accessing Coquina Beach
Visitors can access Coquina beach on foot or via a 4WD vehicle. In order to drive on this beach, visitors will need to stop by the National Park Service ORV Permit Office, (located close to the NPS campground and Oregon Inlet Fishing Center.) Once there, applicants will need to show required documentation, (which includes a valid driver's license and vehicle registration), fill out the permit paperwork, and watch a 7-minute video on driving on the Outer Banks beaches.
Beach Driving Permits are available on weekly or annual basis, and generally cost around $50 for a weekly permit and $120 for an annual permit. Visitors can also order and obtain their beach driving permit before arriving on the Outer Banks online at http://www.recreation.gov/showPage.do?name=common&commonPath=/htm/CapeHatteras_Form.jsp. Note that once ordered, permits can be either picked up at the local NPS office, or can be shipped to the applicant's mailing address for an extra fee.
Once a permit is obtained, beach drivers will want to head to 4WD Access Ramps 1 or 2, justed in between Nags Head and Oregon Inlet, to drive out to the Coquina Beach shoreline. (Remember to deflate your tires to 15-20 psi beforehand, follow all posted speed limits, and avoid driving through the salty ocean surf, which can be detrimental to a vehicle.)
Visitors on foot can also access Coquina Beach via a relatively easy walk from the public parking areas that are adjacent to the two 4WD beach access ramps, or via a small and unmarked oceanside parking area that's located just past Park Service Road. Pedestrians will want to keep an eye out for passing beach traffic, and stick close to the shoreline, away from the established sand tracks that serve as the "road" through Coquina Beach.
History of Coquina Beach
Coquina beach was essentially named after the colorful coquina clams that are commonly spotted along the ocean wash of the Outer Banks, and can appear in abundance in the warm spring and summer months.
The beach has a local claim to fame as the final resting place of the shipwreck Laura Barnes, a four-masted schooner from Maine that was driven onshore in June of 1921. While the entire crew was rescued by the brave Bodie Island Lifesaving Station personnel, the ship itself was lost to rough surf and battering waves, and remained stuck and grounded along the Coquina Beach coastline. While many of the materials of the Laura Barnes would eventually be stripped, salvaged or sold at auction, pieces of the ship still remain, both by Coquina Beach, and about a mile south across from the Bodie Island Lighthouse.
Things to do on Coquina Beach
Coquina Beach visitors will find plenty of ways to stay entertained beside the obvious preoccupation of stretching out in a beach chair and admiring the wide open views.
This section of shoreline is famous in the Central Outer Banks region for surf fishing, as the 4WD access makes it easy for anglers to haul along their rods, reels, tackle and coolers with ease. The fishing is at its best in the fall and spring seasons, which is considered prime surf fishing time throughout the OBX, but virtually any visitor has a good chance of reeling in a bluefish, mullet, or other regular local catches from this rarely-crowded stretch of beach.
Beachcombing and shelling are also popular activities, as the shoreline's remote setting and proximity to Oregon Inlet can often produce some solid North Carolina finds. Colorful scallops and coquinas, clam shells, jingle shells, moon snails and whelks can all be found along this beach, especially 1-3 days after a regional storm. Sea glass also washes up on occasion, and certain years can even produce the occasional whelk or stingray egg case, starfish, or even sand dollar. In the prime summer months, devoted beachcombers will want to make sure they hit the beach early, (particularly if low tide is in the morning), as this region can get popular with locals and visitors alike when the shelling is good.
Surfing and body boarding can typically be enjoyed along Coquina Beach as well, especially when an offshore hurricane or nor'easter produces a local swell. Neighboring Nags Head is considered one of the top surfing destinations in the Central Outer Banks, (and is even the semi-regular home of the Eastern Surfing Association's championships, the ESAs), so boarders who want to be close to the action, but in a more remote spot with less competition, will adore Coquina Beach. Just be on the lookout for fishing lines when paddling out and riding in, as this beach can be very popular with surf fishermen as well.
Birdwatchers who want to cross a number of Mid-Atlantic shorebirds off their list will appreciate Coquina Beach too, as the generally uncrowded shoreline is appealing to a wide range of feathered beach-goers as well, including plovers, sandpipers, cormorants and gulls. The late fall and early spring seasons are an especially good timeframe to catch these local species in their natural environment, while enjoying Coquina Beach virtually all to oneself.
Close to the popular attractions, restaurants and shopping plazas along the Beach Bypass, but devoid of the crowds that flock to the Central Outer Banks, Coquina Beach is a perfect destination for vacationers who love a shoreline with plenty of elbow room. Pick up a Beach Driving permit at the local NPS office, or park at any of the multiple parking areas in between South Nags Head and Oregon Inlet, and enjoy a long walk along one of the OBX's prettiest stretches of undeveloped, natural coastline.
Located on the edge of North Carolina and serving as a midway point between the Outer Banks and the Crystal Coast, Cedar Island is a relatively undiscovered gem that feels miles away from the rest of the world. Close to historic and natural attractions, miles of barrier island shoreline, and the state-run ferry to Ocracoke Island, a Cedar Island vacation can be as relaxed or adventurous as a family wants, with ample opportunities to explore costal North Carolina’s great outdoors.
No vacationer looks forward to a rainy day while trying to soak up the sun along the Crystal Coast, but the fact is that some of the region’s favorite and most treasured destinations are found off the sand, and a rainy day serves as the perfect excuse to get off the beach, and start exploring.
3BD/2.5BA condo in Pine Knoll Shores. COMMUNITY POOL! *Formerly listed as "Oasis @ PKS" Property ID # 2558830 Please see reviews from 2022 at end of this description. 5.0 STARS with 13 submitted reviews, 9 shown at bottom of description...please read!Go Coastal with this Pine Knoll Shores Condo and experience sun, surf, sand & MUCH MORE- Ocean Glen Oasis #13 @ Pine Knoll Shores offers a convenient location to all things Crystal Coast! Oceanside condo features 3 Bedrooms/2.5 Bathrooms & STEPS away from Beach and Community POOL! Pine Knoll Shores, NC is neighbored by Salter Path, Emerald Isle, Indian Beach, Atlantic Beach, Morehead City, Swansboro, Cape Carteret, Historic downtown Beaufort, Newport & Down East North Carolina. Ocean Glen Condos in the Town of Pine Knoll Shores is a private, peaceful condo complex located on the barrier island of Bogue Banks, between Emerald Isle and Atlantic Beach & offers EASY ACCESS to shopping, eateries, mini golf, go carts, water sports, fishing, golfing, ferries, & NC Aquarium - attractions & much more are just a short drive away.Totally STOCKED & well-appointed condo featuring many amenities for calming & fun hideaway! Interior newly remodeled in late 2021 and staged with mostly all new furnishings & home essentials -from linens to kitchen items. Updated decor is modern yet classy- with relaxing beach vibes! Cozy beds and ideal amount of space for 4-6 guests. Beach access is shared by Ocean Glen community from front entry door by living room area & leads to deck walkway, or by 1st level carport entry door leading to parking lot beach access for Ocean Glen Community Owners & Guests. Outdoor showers and/or rinse off hose offered at both beach accesses and community pool. Pool is also accessed by front entry door, to your left from deck walkway...fenced pool offers umbrellas and comfortable lounge chairs! No lifeguard. Covered Porch off dining/kitchen area offers cozy outdoor seating for 4 and a WONDERFUL place to appreciate the sounds of the Ocean. Master bedroom on top level has a modest private balcony providing with 2 Adirondack chairs & BEACH vistas of the Atlantic Ocean. Living Area has impeccable natural light through double glass doors and enormous upper window! 70 inch Intelligent TV is mounted and offers Netflix, Amazon Prime, and basic cable. Other apps are available for personal sign in. Free high speed Wifi- great for working on the go if you MUST! No password required for Ocean Glen West- Guest network. Electric reclining couch is new and super relaxing!Cavernous kitchen with stainless appliances and dishwasher provides everything needed to prepare a delicious meal! Keurig single cup coffee maker, Ninja Blender, Microwave, Full size refrigerator and freezer with ice maker, and plenty of room for vacation pantry items. Plenty of dishes and silverware for 4-6 guests, even provides serving dishes for a holiday meal if desired! Dining room table currently has seating for 4 guests, but an additional table leaf and 2 additional matching dining chairs are comfortably accessible/available if needed. Beach tent is available for use at property. Please ask if beach chairs are available- as we cannot guarantee adequate use or removal from previous guests. We do not provide beach towels! Pack-N-Play, kid booster seat for dining room chair, infant gate, and modest step stool available for use if bringing modest kids. Please let host know if these items are needed for use during your stay. Full size Washer/Dryer on site. Located in carport entry room on first level.Clean sheets and all linens washed and on beds upon arrival. Bath towels, hand towels, wash cloths and kitchen towels are also supplied. Hand towels by bathroom sinks and kitchen towels are clean and in place upon arrival. All basic soaps are included. *Ocean Glen Community Pool open Memorial Day through Labor Day for Homeowners and their guests. Please be courteous of all neighbors and kids using shared spaces in the Ocean Glen community as well as beach AT ALL times!*Ocean Glen #13 has interior stairs leading from carport entry mud room to living, area, then stairs from living to dining/kitchen, covered porch, and half bathroom. Another set of stairs from dining level leads to Bedroom #3 with Twin Couch bed with additional twin trundle pull out. Last set of stairs after Bedroom #3 take you to Master Bedroom with attached full bathroom with Cal King bed & Bedroom #2 with Queen Bed. The 2nd full (yet modest) bathroom with tub/shower combo is also on top level off hallway between the two bedrooms upstairs. NO ELEVATOR at Ocean Glen Complex or inside interior #13. Please consider the stairs before booking your stay, and please reach out to host if you have any questions or concerns prior to booking! *WATCH YOUR STEP! We kindly ask that you rinse your feet and beach items used to prevent slipping and abundance of sand inside condo. Please rinse and dry off completely before entering. Stairs & floors are slippery when wet. * Bed Linens are supplied at no additional cost. Sheets are clean and in bed upon arrival. Bath towels supplied for each guests. Kitchen towels and hand towels also included. *WE DO NOT PROVIDE BEACH TOWELS. Please do not use bath towels for the beach or pool! Contact host prior to booking with any reasonable requests or accommodations, we can't guarantee fulfillment of such accommodations, but strive to make our guests happy!REVIEWS BY OUR GUESTS FROM PREVIOUS Vacation Rental By Owner LISTING ID #2558830 2022 5.0 STARS under new management, but same host! Stunning vacation spot"Elegant beach home and very clean. The place was well outfitted with necessary things. Renee was very accommodating. Highly recommend staying here and would adore to stay here again!"-Allison B. Submitted Aug 5, 2022“My wife and our two modest kids couldn't have asked for a better beach trip. The area and the property are very kid friendly. The location is just steps to the beach, and a very short drive to other fun activities. The beach home was up to date and clean. We will be coming back!”-Joe B. Submitted Jul15, 2022“The property was located in a great area & extremely clean. Communication with property manager was simple & she made sure we were well taken care of. We were so pleased with our whole experience. If you are looking for a family friendly property I highly recommend!”-Ashley F. Submitted Jul 22, 2022Ideal Location, property and week!"From early on, Renee did a excellent job providing information and answering questions. The property was ideal. Great location and layout. I would highly recommend!"-Kenneth V. Submitted Jul 29, 2022Great Vacation hideaway"We stayed at the property for a week and definitely appreciated it. The location was great, appreciated that it was right next to the beach and the beach area wasn't too busy at all. The property is clean and comfortable. Has great amenities. The property manager checked on us via text a few times and I appreciated that, knowing if we happened to have any issues they'd be fast to respond. Would 100% recommend!"-Sara V, Submitted Jul 8, 2022Amazing condo just as described!"Ideal mini weekend hideaway to visit our Marine...thank you so much! Condo as described...responsive owners...short walk to beach..handsome. Plenty of space for 4...do not hesitate to book."-Gabriella V. Submitted May 16, 2022Ideal Getaway for Family"We appreciated everything about this property! The condo was clean, gorgeously furnished, and filled with amenities that supplied such a nice personal touch. Renee was an absolute joy to work with and ensured we had everything we needed, even making sure our toddler had some fun items to savor during our stay. It was so nice to have an painless, walkable access to the beach, The overall location of the condo was peaceful and private with handsome trees surrounding the property. We also felt very welcome by fellow condo owners which made our stay that much more enchanting. We had such a marvelous experience and cannot wait to come back! Don't hesitate to book this impressive property!"-Lezlie L. Submitted May 13, 2022Amazing Place to stay"Our stay was amazing. Nicole and Renee were astounding to deal with. The home was very clean and in a great location. Very peaceful. We would definitely stay here again."-jennifer s Submitted May 28. 2022Great charming get-away at Pine Knoll Shores"My husband and I were very happy with our stay. Check-in was simple and easy; the hosts were extremely friendly and helpful. The area itself was calming and peaceful, I personally adored the layout of the place, and the decor was tasteful and cute. We especially adored sitting out on the balcony/porch every morning and evening to enjoy the outstanding ocean breeze and sound of the waves. I highly recommend staying here and would appreciate to return often! :)"-Sarah S. Submitted Mar 1, 2022-HOA HAS STRICT GUEST NO PET POLICY, Sorry, no family pets allowed. -NO SMOKING OF ANY KIND IS ACCEPTED. FAILURE TO COMPLY WILL RESULT IN A $350.00 fine! NO ILLEGAL DRUGS OR ACTIVITY, please enjoy but responsibly while obeying the law.-NO PARTIES OR EVENTS! MAXIMUM 6 GUESTS AT THE PROPERTY AT ANY TIME. Please understand that you will be asked to leave the property immediately with NO REFUNDS given if you or any guests occupying the property fail to comply with these rules.
- Pine Knoll Shores
- 3 Bedrooms
- 2 Bathrooms
- Sleeps 6