Outer Banks Pictures

With more than 100 miles of shoreline to choose from, the beaches here are rarely overcrowded. Meinzahn Getty Images

All the beaches in the Outer Banks are free and open to the public, with multiple beach access points and plenty of parking available.  karenfoleyphotography Getty Images

There are five lighthouses in North Carolina. This lighthouse at Cape Hatteras stands 208 feet tall.  roberthill Getty Images

The Outer Banks is made up of multiple destinations, including Rodanthe, which has been featured in major motion pictures like "Nights in Rodanthe."  The.Rohit Flickr

The Wright Brothers' first flight took place in Kill Devil Hills. Photosbyjam Getty Images

You won't find a dress code here, just make sure to throw on a shirt and shoes when venturing into stores or restaurants.  The.Rohit Flickr

In an effort to preserve the beaches and dunes along the Outer Banks, make sure to follow foot paths and not walk on the dunes.  James Jordan Photography Getty Images

The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is the tallest brick lighthouse in America.  wbritten Getty Images

Watch for flags along the beach. A red flag means currents are too strong and swimming isn't allowed.  Tetra Images Getty Images

You'll find sand dunes galore at Jockey's Ridge State Park. Devon Gustin Getty Images

The Currituck Beach Lighthouse has 220 steps leading up to the top.  Jens_Lambert_Photography Getty Images

Fun for kids (and kids at heart) parents say this activity is worth the cost and their kids all left happy.  Courtesy Pirate Adventure of the Outer Banks

Rental houses in seaside towns are more affordable (and more abundant) than hotel rooms in the Outer Banks.  Joelle Gould Getty Images

An aerial view of the Wright Brothers Memorial shows the size of the park.  Thinkstock Getty Images

The lighthouse in Currituck Beach dates back to 1875.  Malcolm MacGregor Getty Images

Located just south of the Outer Banks, one of the five lighthouses in North Carolina is located on Ocracoke Island.  Joanna Pecha Getty Images

Outer Banks residents take pride in their lighthouses, such as this one on Bodie Island.  Malcolm MacGregor Getty Images

There are many marinas and boat rental companies along the Outer Banks for visitors to sail along the coast.  PhotoRx Getty Images

On some of the more remote and less inhabited barrier islands, you'll be able to catch a glimpse of the wild horses that live there.  Daniela Duncan Getty Images

You'll find a variety of fishing piers dotting the beaches up and down the Outer Banks.  Tetra Images Getty Images

You can climb the 220 steps to the top of the Currituck Beach Lighthouse.  sandersmj Getty Images

You'll find a multitude of fresh seafood restaurants no matter what part of the Outer Banks you are in.  sgoodwin4813 Getty Images

Seals, sharks and otters are just a few of the animals housed in exhibits at the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island. Sean Russell Getty Images