The Outer Banks is home to some pretty incredible tales, especially being on the East Coast. Have you ever wondered how some of these cities got their names or who the most famous pirates are that plundered these shores? Today we are going to break down some of these tales to give you something to think about during your next trip to the OBX.

First we start with Kill Devil Hills. Quite the name if you ask me, Kill Devil, but it isn’t without tales and lore. All of these tales involve a bit of rum or moonshine, so reader beware. One story goes that the pirates that used to walk these shores were one day sitting on the lofty hills taking a quick leave and drinking some moonshine that was “strong enough to kill the devil.” Surely these pirates killed the devils in them this night. Another tale goes, that William Byrd of Virginia who hated the Carolina’s said that the rum that comes out of this land only comes from New England and it was so bad that it was called ‘Kill Devil.’ Quite the name for a little batch of bad rum. Either way, just know this land was filled with pirates drunk on moonshine and rum, oh what a pirate’s life it would be.

The next tale is that of Nags Head. This tale starts with all of the treasure looted and plundered by pirates, even the old Blackbeard himself. The equine moniker of Nags Head is the whole reason this tale exists. Pirates that were looking for loot, without all the work of plundering towns, would tie an old lantern around the neck of horse and have it roam back and forth on a beach. This old “Nag” walking back and forth resembled a small boat bobbing up and down on the sea and signaled for others to land there. As they put in,, their boat would get stuck and they would be plundered, walked the plank, and burned the ship when done with it. Now you will never look at those old horses the same.

Whichever one of these towns you decided to visit, just know that mystery and stories await you on the Outer Banks. If you stay in Kill Devil Hills, take time to slow down and find tales of the past to share while enjoying the warm sun on the beach, maybe leave the rum at home. If you stay in Nags Head, appreciate the modern boating technology that we have today that keeps you safe from the treacherous pirates and shores waiting for those unaware. Either way, you will find something to enjoy on the Outer Banks, you may even find some hidden treasure.

If you are looking for some of the best donuts in the OBX, you need to hit up Duck Donuts. You don’t typically think of duck fat when you are frying your donuts, but it adds so much flavor and makes them nice and crispy.

They started here in the Outer Banks and have been crushing it making donuts since 2006. If you are wanting something a little more fruity, my personal favorite is the Sunrise. Need a savory flavor? Check out the Bacon in the Sun. They won’t disappoint.

Duck Donuts

We are still working on getting this up if you would like to support. We will let you know when it is available!

From OBX is 100% free to read, independently owned, and locally operated (heck, it’s just me)

Your contributions go toward keeping us going so we can have more fun, build more community, and not have each edition filled with ads. I appreciate any and all support from you guys! - Ryan