The Netflix series “Outer Banks” has captivated audiences worldwide, sparking curiosity about the real-life location that inspired the show’s captivating backdrop. If you’re wondering, Where Is Obx Located?, you’ve come to the right place. OBX, short for the Outer Banks, is a stunning string of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina, USA. While the show might take some creative liberties, the allure of sun-soaked beaches, rich history, and thrilling adventures is deeply rooted in the reality of this coastal paradise.
Discovering the Geography of the Outer Banks
To pinpoint exactly where OBX is located, let’s delve into its geography. The Outer Banks is situated in Dare County, North Carolina, jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean. Imagine a slender ribbon of land stretching over 100 miles, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the sounds (like the Albemarle and Pamlico Sounds) to the west. These barrier islands are dynamic and ever-changing, shaped by the relentless forces of wind and water, a characteristic vividly portrayed in the Netflix series.
Outer Banks Netflix Show Welcome Sign
Welcome sign inspired by the Netflix show “Outer Banks”, highlighting the fictional Kildare County.
This unique coastal location makes the OBX distinct. It’s not just one island, but a collection of interconnected islands and towns, each with its own unique personality. From the Northern Beaches like Corolla and Duck, down to Roanoke Island, and further south to Hatteras Island, the Outer Banks offers diverse landscapes and experiences within a relatively close proximity.
OBX vs. Kildare County: Separating Fact from Fiction
The Netflix show refers to “Kildare County,” but in reality, this is a fictional creation blending elements of Dare County and Kill Devil Hills, a town within the Outer Banks. Dare County is named after Virginia Dare, the first English child born in the Americas, adding a layer of historical significance to the region. While “Kildare County” serves the narrative of the show, understanding that the real OBX is rooted in Dare County, North Carolina, grounds the adventurous spirit of the series in a tangible location.
Welcome to Outer Banks Sign
Official “Welcome to the Outer Banks” sign in Manteo, North Carolina, showcasing the real-world OBX.
Experiencing the Real Outer Banks: Beyond the Screen
While the “Outer Banks” show provides a glimpse into the OBX lifestyle, experiencing it firsthand is a must. The show accurately captures the laid-back coastal vibe, fueled by tourism and the stunning natural surroundings of marshes, sand, and water.
Coastal Towns and Outdoor Delights
Just like depicted in the series, the towns of OBX are pedestrian-friendly, encouraging exploration on foot. Waterfront boardwalks and marinas are bustling with activity, offering outdoor dining with fresh seafood and scenic views. Quaint, locally-owned shops line the streets, brimming with coastal art, jewelry, and unique souvenirs.
Nags Head Fishing Pier in the Outer Banks of North Carolina
Waterfront dining experience at Nags Head Pier, exemplifying the real-life coastal dining of Outer Banks.
Beyond the tourist attractions, the Outer Banks holds a deep-rooted commercial fishing heritage. Generations of families have depended on the Atlantic’s bounty, supplying local restaurants and markets with the freshest catches. This authentic aspect of OBX life is subtly woven into the Netflix show and is a key element of its charm.
Unearthing the Graveyard of the Atlantic
The treasure hunt in “Outer Banks” is fictional, but the region’s maritime history is undeniably rich and dramatic. Known as the “Graveyard of the Atlantic,” the Outer Banks has witnessed thousands of shipwrecks, estimated to be around 3,000, since the early days of American settlements. While these wrecks may not hold gold treasures, they are historical artifacts teeming with marine life.
Outer Banks Show Shipwreck
Shipwreck scene from the “Outer Banks” show, depicting the treasure hunt theme.
Today, remnants of shipwrecks occasionally emerge on the beaches, offering a tangible connection to the past. For adventurous visitors, snorkeling and scuba diving around these wrecks is a unique experience, revealing the underwater history of the “Graveyard of the Atlantic.” Sites like the “Triangle Wrecks” near Kill Devil Hills and the Huron wreck off Nags Head are popular dive spots.
Graveyard of the Atlantic Scuba Diving Shipwreck In The Outer Banks Of North Carolina
Real shipwreck site for scuba diving in the Outer Banks, highlighting the Graveyard of the Atlantic.
Guiding Lights: Lighthouses of the OBX
Lighthouses play a symbolic role in the “Outer Banks” series, and in reality, they are iconic landmarks of the region. The show features the fictional “Redfield Lighthouse,” but the OBX boasts real and equally captivating lighthouses. The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, the tallest brick lighthouse in North America, stands as a majestic beacon. The historic Bodie Island Lighthouse in Nags Head, and the charming Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse on the Manteo waterfront, each contribute to the unique coastal character of the Outer Banks.
Outer Banks Show Lighthouse
Fictional “Redfield Lighthouse” from the “Outer Banks” series.
Bodie Island Lighthouse in Nags Head In The Outer Banks Of North Carolina
Real Bodie Island Lighthouse in Nags Head, North Carolina, a prominent Outer Banks landmark.
Island Hopping by Ferry
While a ferry to Chapel Hill, as depicted in the show, is a fictional element, ferries are indeed a vital part of transportation in the Outer Banks. Surrounded by water, the islands are connected by bridges and ferries, offering scenic routes and access to neighboring islands. The Hatteras to Ocracoke Ferry provides a free and enjoyable 60-minute ride to Ocracoke Island, a must-do for visitors wanting to explore more of the OBX.
Hatters Island to Ocracoke Ferry
Hatteras to Ocracoke Ferry, a real ferry service in Outer Banks, contrasting with the show’s fictional ferry.
Plan Your OBX Adventure
So, where is OBX located? It’s a real place, a captivating destination on the coast of North Carolina, offering sun-drenched beaches, thrilling history, and charming coastal towns. Whether you are drawn by the adventurous spirit of the Netflix show or simply seeking a perfect beach getaway, the Outer Banks awaits. Discover your own treasure and start planning your OBX adventure today! For more information on places to stay and things to do, download your FREE Travel Guide.
