More than 2,000 shipwrecks sunk off the Coast of North Carolina in what’s called the Graveyard of the Atlantic. With all that history floating around, it was only natural to build a museum to honor and preserve the maritime culture of the Outer Banks. A state-of-the-art structure, the year round museum houses and displays artifacts, and presents a variety of exhibits and interprets the rich maritime culture that includes war, piracy, ghost ships and more.
The Museum works with divers and local families to bring historically significant materials to the public. Through negotiations with the Federal Republic of Germany and local divers, the Museum obtained the Enigma encoding and transcription machines and related materials from the wreck of the U-85. These rare and important artifacts are being conserved and soon will be on display.
The museum underwent a significant remodeling process starting in late 2022, with Riggs Ward Design;contracted to create a comprehensive design plan. The revamped museum reopened in 2024. Notable highlights of the museum include a Monomoy surf boat, a first-order Fresnel lens from the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, and interactive displays showcasing shipwrecks off the coast. The exhibition covers periods from pre-colonial times to the present, offering a comprehensive journey through the region's history.
The 18,768 sq. ft. building is constructed to withstand sustained winds of over 135 mph and gusts of over 250 mph and is elevated 12 ft. above sea level surpassing the thousand-year flood plain. The Museum’s design features ship’s curves and timber elements evocative of seafaring vessels.
The Museum was formally recognized in 2008 as a Regional State History Museum and was included in the North Carolina State Museum System. There is a gift shop on site, and the Museum is located directly across from the great Atlantic Ocean AKA The Graveyard of the Atlantic.
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October 9, 2025
This year, the Duck Jazz Festival proudly reaches its 16th anniversary, and with it, we unveil our artistic vision:“Duck Grooves: The Sound of Jazz,” is an electrifying celebration of jazz’s dynamic, ever-evolving nature, set against the stunning backdrop of the Currituck Sound. It’s a fusion of past, present, and future, where the timeless traditions of jazz intersect with the vibrancy of new, innovative sounds. Just as the sound of jazz flows and adapts, so too does the landscape of Duck where the rhythm of the music harmonizes with the natural beauty of the water and the surrounding environment.
Hatteras Island is an uncrowded, beautiful, and natural coastal destination, but that doesn't mean it's boring! The island offers a wealth of things to do and see. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach vacation or exciting watersports adventure, Hatteras Island has you covered. Here is our list of the top ten things to do on Hatteras Island.
Always Included, complimentary linens and made beds! Gabe and Abe's Ocean Breeze is a charming 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom Outer Banks vacation rental located in Nags Head. This cozy oceanside retreat offers a perfect blend of comfort and convenience for a relaxing beach getaway. With just a 3-minute walk to the Nags Head Town Hall beach access, you and your family will be able to enjoy endless beach days with ease. This Nags Head rental is also conveniently located near local dining, grocery shopping, and more. Inside this Outer Banks rental, you'll be greeted by an open living area complete with plenty of seating and a flat-screen TV. It's the perfect space to relax with family and friends. When it's time to prepare meals, the kitchen has everything for you to make meal preparation a breeze. The dining area with seating for 6 is ideal for enjoying family dinners or casual breakfasts before heading to the beach. There's also additional seating for 3 in the living room. You'll also have access to the furnished covered deck, perfect for relaxing and taking in the ocean breeze while enjoying a morning cup of coffee or evening cocktail. The bedrooms are thoughtfully furnished, offering you and your group a peaceful place to relax and unwind after a fun-filled day exploring Nags Head. For those who want to rinse off after a day at the beach, an outdoor shower is conveniently located, allowing guests to wash away the sand and salt before heading indoors. Easy beach access is a highlight, ensuring that the shoreline is just a short stroll away. Overall, Gabe and Abe's Ocean Breeze offers a laid-back and comfortable retreat for families or a group of friends looking to enjoy the sun, sea, and sand of the Outer Banks in Nags Head.Distance to Beach: Approximately 180 yards110 West Hawks Nest Court, Nags Head, NC 27959BEDDING:2 Queens, 1 Double, 1 Bunk BedAMENITIES: Gas Grill, Picnic Table, 3 TVs, 1 DVD Player, WiFi Internet Access, Outside Shower, Dishwasher, Microwave, Washer & Dryer, Keurig Coffee Maker.LEVEL 1:Carport, Outside Shower, Washer & Dryer.LEVEL 2:Living Area, Dining Area, Kitchen, 2 Queen Bedrooms, Bedroom with Double Bed, Bedroom with Bunk Bed, 2 Full Bathrooms.
- Nags Head
- 4 Bedrooms
- 2 Bathrooms
