If you’ve ever gotten a postcard from the Outer Banks of North Carolina, chances are it featured one of three things: a historic lighthouse, wild Spanish mustangs, or a wooden deck standing tall against the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean.
Rodanthe Pier is one such OBX icon. It’s the perfect spot for casting a line into the ocean waters, reeling in a big one, or walking along its wooden planks to catch a sunset or gaze upon the twinkling night stars. This iconic pier was even once home to a different type of star when it was featured in the hit 2008 romance film, “Nights in Rodanthe.”
This historic structure and its sweeping beaches are a must-see on your next OBX vacation. Read on to learn everything you need about Rodanthe Pier and its surrounding areas when you stay at a First Flight vacation home.
About the Rodanthe Pier
The Rodanthe Pier was originally constructed as a simple wooden fishing pier in 1960. Stretching over 680 feet into the Atlantic Ocean, this fishing spot soon became an Outer Banks icon.
Movie Famous
The 2008 movie Nights in Rodanthe featured this charming Outer Banks icon and made it a popular spot for visitors hoping to visit spots where this romantic drama was filmed. Based on a book by North Carolina author Nicholas Sparks, the pier is featured in several scenes throughout the movie, including the iconic pier scene filmed after the pier weathered the tropical storm Andrea.
Storm Resilience
Andrea is far from the only storm this wooden pier has endured. Over the years, it has weathered numerous storms, including the notorious hurricanes that frequently batter the Outer Banks. While it sometimes sustained significant damages from these storms, the community always rallied together to rebuild this beloved landmark.
Amenities
There is a small pierhouse stationed at the end of the pier. You’ll find restrooms and a small shop selling bait and tackle, snacks, drinks, t-shirts, and other souvenirs here. You’ll also find a game room with a few games for the kids to enjoy while visiting.
Visiting the Rodanthe Pier
- Address: 24251 Atlantic Dr, Rodanthe, NC
- Open: April to November
- Fees: $2 per visit or buy a weekly pass for $10
The Rodanthe Pier is open to the public for visiting most of the year. It typically opens in April (the weekend after Easter) and closes in November after Thanksgiving. The hours vary seasonally. The pier stays open from 7 am to dark in April and May. From June to mid-September, the pier is open from 6 am to midnight and from mid-September to November from 7 am to midnight.
You can walk on the pier and sightsee for just $2 per visit or buy a weekly pass for $10. Fishing passes are available at an additional cost. There is ample parking available for customers visiting the pier. However, if you plan to park to visit the beach and stay, there is a $15 parking fee.
While visiting, be sure to be mindful of pier rules. Also, if you plan to hit the waves at the local beach during your visit, you should be aware that surfing, kayaking, and kiteboarding are prohibited within 300 feet of the pier.
Fishing at the Rodanthe Pier
The Rodanthe fishing pier is a popular fishing destination for anglers in search of their next big catch. Here, they can reel in sea mullet, cobias, red drum, bluefish, trout, mackerel, flounder, and other local species. The pier also conveniently houses a bait and tackle shop, making bait and fishing gear easily accessible for fishermen.
Daily fishing passes are available for $15 for adults and $10 for children ten and younger. Discounted rates of $12 are available for military personnel and seniors. You can also purchase weekly fishing passes and season passes for both individuals and families. You do not need a fishing license to fish on the pier. Should you need to borrow a fishing rod, rod rentals are available for an additional $12.
Be sure to check for fishing reports and visit their website to find a live webcam sharing current conditions.
Where to Eat Around Rodanthe Pier
When you need to grab a bite to eat, there are several options located just a few minutes away.
Good Winds Restaurant
You’ll find Good Winds Restaurant located just a short 2-minute drive away. This casual eatery has many options on the menu, including many fresh seafood dishes.
Lisa’s Pizzeria
If you want to fill up on some hearty slices of pizza, you’ll want to head to Lisa’s Pizzeria. They make hand-tossed pizza pies with all your favorite toppings. If you’re looking for a new favorite, be sure to try their Chicken Pesto pizza!
Neptune’s Kitchen & Dive Bar
When you’re looking for a solid burger to wrap your mouth around, you’ll find it at Neptune’s Kitchen & Dive Bar. In addition to burgers and other sandwiches, this spot also offers several fresh seafood entrees. If you visit at night, this fun little dive bar often has live music and karaoke nights!
The Dough Shack
Everyone knows the best part of every meal is dessert. So when you’re looking for something to satisfy your sweet tooth, you’ll want to try The Dough Shack. Here, you’ll find an assortment of delicious doughnuts and bagels. If you want a one-stop lunch spot, you can also grab a pizza here.
Things to See and Do Near the Pier
After a visit to the pier, you’ll find plenty of other places to visit within a short 30 minute drive north or south of the pier. With lots of undeveloped coastlines, this area offers many natural treasures.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore
The town of Rodanthe is part of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. This 70 mile stretch of coastline is known for its wide, sandy beaches and diverse habitats. You can easily spend a day exploring this stretch of shore, watching the native habitat, and discovering the marshes and maritime forests that surround the beaches.
Iconic Lighthouses
You’ll find two of the OBX’s iconic lighthouses within a half hour of the Rodanthe Pier. Just north of the pier, you’ll find the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. It is the tallest brick lighthouse in the United States, standing 208 feet tall. South of the pier, you’ll find Bodie Lighthouse. The beacon of this lighthouse can be seen 20 miles from the shore.
Pea Island Wildlife Refuge
For a full scale immersion into the coastal ecosystems of the area, head north from the pier to the Pea Island Wildlife Refuge. Spanning over 5,800 undeveloped acres, this refuge is home to over 365 species of birds. You’ll find an expansive network of trails and boardwalks throughout the grounds, leading you through marshes, dunes, and ponds.
Oregon Inlet Life Saving Station
Just slightly north of that, you can visit the Oregon Inlet Life Saving Station. This historic spot was once a critical rescue station for shipwrecked sailors who crashed into the hidden shoals. Today, the station has been restored to reflect its original appearance and is home to artifacts and displays showcasing the brave rescues that took place over time.
Experience the Iconic Rodanthe Pier
Whether you’re visiting as a fan of the movie or as an avid angler hoping to catch a big one, you’re sure to enjoy the panoramic ocean views from the wooden beams of this old pier. This is a place you’re going to come back to, so be sure to book your First Flight vacation rental nearby so you can return to this sweet spot to savor it again and again.