Unlike the other piers on the Outer Banks that are set up for fishing and guests to walk around and soak up the ocean breezes, the Duck Research Pier is a little bit different. Located in the charming seaside town of Duck, the Duck Research Pier (officially known as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Field Research Facility) is a 1,840-foot-long pier that extends into the Atlantic and is used for research and marine monitoring. Here's everything you need to know about the Duck Research Pier, but be sure to also check out our Guide to Outer Banks Piers for even more information about piers and places to fish on the Outer Banks!
What is the Duck Research Pier?
Founded in 1977, the Duck Research Pier is known for having the longest continuous record of wave, current, and beach profile data in the world. As a result, the pier is able to support both military and civilian research interests regarding shoreline management and changing climate conditions and patterns. The deck of the pier features sophisticated instruments used for tracking wave dynamics, sediment movement, and weather phenomena. In addition to several amphibious vehicles and drone systems, a recently built 4,000 square foot annex also supports the safety and evolution of ongoing military operations while conducting ongoing research regarding water resource challenges in coastal environments.
What Can You See and Do?
The Duck Research Pier is definitely more of a passing visit kind of spot on the OBX, but that doesn't mean it's not an incredible spot to have an adventure! Get ready to see spectacular coastal views as you catch a sunrise over the ocean or watch the surfers who love this spot. There will also be plenty of seabirds and marine life hanging around due to the pier's location. This is also a really fun stop for the kids, as you may be able to catch a glimpse of sensors, weather systems, and research vehicles near the pier! And don't forget your camera. Once known as "the steel pier," the Duck Research Pier is prime for dramatic photography of the waves crashing against the pier and birds exploring on the breeze nearby!
Planning Your Visit
A visit to the Duck Research Pier is a great way to get in some exercise and explore the area! Bring your camera, binoculars, and curiosity! While you can't visit the research facility, while you're on the beach in Duck or walking along the many pedestrian paths available in town, you can get a rare glimpse into the way that the environment plays into military operations. Consider pairing a visit to the beach near the pier with a stroll or meal in downtown Duck, a late-afternoon beachcombing session by the water, or before or after enjoying some watersports fun on the sound!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fish from the Duck Research Pier?
No. The public cannot fish from or walk on the pier as it is not open to the public. It is an active U.S. Army Corps of Engineers research facility conducting military operations. Guests may view the pier from the beach or nearby access points.
Are there tours or educational programs available?
No. There are currently no ongoing public tours or programs. The facility is exclusively used by the government and partnering agencies for research.
What kind of research is conducted there?
The pier is home to a wide variety of research endeavors, including coastal sediment management, military sensing operations, wave, wind, and tide patterns, ocean currents, and storm impact evaluations.
Is it worth visiting if you can’t go on the pier?
Absolutely. The sheer length of the pier, paired with its scientific importance and scenic backdrop, makes it a great spot for sightseeing, sunrise photography, and sparking kids’ curiosity about ocean science.
Book Your Next OBX Vacation Now!
The Duck Research Pier’s unique mix of raw coastal beauty and high-stakes science lends it a mystique like no other OBX landmark. It’s a living classroom, an Insta-worthy photo spot, and a reminder of our deep connection to—and dependence on—the ocean.
For your next Outer Banks getaway, consider a stay in a Duck rental—and don’t forget to stroll along the shore to catch this remarkable research-driven icon in action.
Book your stay today in one of our cozy vacation rentals and explore all the best and brightest that the Outer Banks has to offer. Give our wonderful Guest Services Team a call today at (866) 884-0267 or take a look at our available rentals to get started planning your next historic adventure to the Outer Banks.
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