Tucked between Bodie Island and Pea Island on North Carolina’s Outer Banks, Oregon Inlet is more than just a scenic waterway — it’s a place where Outer Banks history, wild natural beauty, and outdoor adventure come together in unforgettable ways. Whether you're casting a line, soaking in coastal views, or uncovering maritime legends, Oregon Inlet is a must-see for every Outer Banks vacation.
A Storied Past
Oregon Inlet is actually a small inlet that connects the Pamlico Sound with the Atlantic Ocean, separating Bodie Island and Pea Island. Its unique location as an access point to the ocean situates it to be the perfect spot for fishing charters, the large Oregon Inlet Fishing Center, and a U.S. Coast Guard station. The inlet was formed in 1846 when a hurricane swept through the area, violently separating Bodie and Pea Islands. The story goes that the vessel Oregon was the first to traverse the new waterway and report the inlet's creation to the mainland, giving the inlet its name.
Like much of the Outer Banks, Oregon Inlet's survival and shape are continuously based on the weather. Since 1846, the inlet has drifted south just over two full miles. Recently, Dare County established a dedicated dredging vessel to ensure that the channel doesn't close up and remains navigable for fishing and boating.
A Fisherman’s Paradise
Known as the “Fishing Capital of the World,” Oregon Inlet is home to the Oregon Inlet Fishing Center, where you’ll find one of the East Coast’s largest charter boat fleets. Whether you're a seasoned angler or trying your luck for the first time, the opportunities are endless to head out onto the water and experience an unforgettable fishing adventure that is sure to make memories for a lifetime.
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Offshore Fishing: Hunt for tuna, mahi-mahi, and billfish in the deep Atlantic waters. Looking for that Wicked Tuna experience? This is what you need. These trips take you further out into the deep waters and tend to last longer with the potential for rougher weather.
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Inshore & Sound Fishing: Target red drum, speckled trout, and flounder in the calmer waters. This is a great option if you're looking for a shorter trip with calm waters. This is perfect for people who are new to fishing or families with young children.
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Nearshore: Nearshore charters give you a middle ground between inshore and offshore trips. Enjoy a wide range of fish species with some choppy water but nothing too crazy.
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Surf Fishing: Cast your line right from the beach for a classic OBX experience..
Be sure to visit the docks in the late afternoon to watch the boats return with their catch — it’s a sight that never gets old. Watching the local restaurants pick through the fresh catch and decide what they want to bring to your table? There's nothing quite like it in the world.
And be sure to check out our Club Seaside partners for exclusive deals on charters and tours!
Explore the Oregon Inlet Fishing Center
Before heading out on the water for your aquatic adventure, take some time to explore the new, state-of-the-art Oregon Inlet Fishing Center! Inside you'll find trained staff ready to help you book your dream charter as well as a fully stocked tait and tackle shop by Oceans East with everything you need to make the most of your fishing excursion. They offer fresh and frozen bait, and their knowledgeable team members are standing by to help you make the best choices for your charter.
Get a delicious meal on site at the beautiful Sea Chef Dockside Kitchen or grab something to carry out with you to make the most of your day! They even offer "tackle box" meals so that you can enjoy fresh, local cuisine on the go!
And while you're there, be sure to book your next trip on the Miss Oregon Inlet II headboat and Dolphin Safari with Kitty Hawk Kites! The first floor reservation area has everything you need to ensure a successful trip, so be sure to come find out the hottest spots for your next seaside adventure.
Boating & Water Adventures
Not only is Oregon Inlet a haven for fishermen the world over, but it's also the launching spot for a wide variety of fun and engaging activities that help draw attention to the beauty of the natural world! The shifting sands and currents not only bring in the large amount of fish that the area is known for each year, but the environment also creates a unique ecosystem that offers the ideal spot for exciting boating and watersports adventures.
In addition to fishing, visitors can enjoy:
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Jet Skiing around the inlet
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Kayaking through the calm backwaters of the sound
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Scenic Boat Tours: Many charter companies also offer the opportunity to customize your own scenic boat tour with options that include birdwatching, shell collecting, and more!
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Oyster Tours: Bring the whole family out to learn more about oysters on the OBX and even help harvest them!
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Dolphin Tours: Head out onto the water and catch a glimpse of beautiful dolphins frolicking in the surf, and make sure you have your camera ready!
Natural Beauty & Wildlife
There are plenty of other things to do when visiting Oregon Inlet, even if fishing really isn't your scene! Head down to the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, where you'll be able to relax with miles of unspoiled shoreline and plenty of quiet, beach access spots that give you the perfect glimpse of the Atlantic. While you're there, be sure to visit the Bodie Island Lighthouse, where you can enjoy beautiful views of the marsh and even go for a climb in the summer!
Events & Community Happenings
Oregon Inlet also hosts several exciting events throughout the year. Mark your calendars for:
- Oregon Inlet Oyster Roast & Pig Pickin: Celebrate the OBX's culinary and coastal culture with local seafood, live music, and community vibes.
April 27, 2025 | Nags Head, NC - Pea Island Bird Walk: Every Friday, year-round, come celebrate the nearly 400 species of birds that pass through the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge with this guided walk.
Fridays | Nags Head, NC - The Oregon Inlet Challenge: A high-speed personal watercraft race from Virginia to the Outer Banks! The total trip from Pungo to the break outside Oregon Inlet and back is a total of 150 miles!
August 9, 2025 | Virginia Beach, VA to Oregon Inlet
Tips for Visiting Oregon Inlet
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When to Visit: Spring through early fall generally offers the best weather and fishing conditions, though the OBX is great for surfing year-round.
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What to Bring: Sunscreen, bug spray, water shoes, a waterproof bag for your phone, fishing gear, and your camera — the views are incredible.
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Where to Stay: Choose one of our Outer Banks vacation rentals in Nags Head or Hatteras Island for quick access to the inlet.
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Where to Eat: Pack a picnic lunch to eat on the boat or stop by one of the local seafood markets on Hatteras Island to grab some fried fish or a crab cake!
Oregon Inlet FAQ
Where is Oregon Inlet located?
Oregon Inlet is located between Bodie Island and Pea Island on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. It connects the Atlantic Ocean to Pamlico Sound and is part of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore.
Is Oregon Inlet open to the public?
Yes! Oregon Inlet is open to the public year-round. Visitors can access the beach, campground, fishing areas, and the Oregon Inlet Fishing Center.
Can you swim in Oregon Inlet?
Swimming in Oregon Inlet is highly advised against. The currents are incredibly fast and shift often, making this a dangerous spot to try to swim. It's better to stay in public, well-lit spots on the beaches.
Can I fish without a charter?
Yes, you can definitely fish without booking a charter boat from the beach, the Bonner Bridge Pier, or a small boat like kayak or a canoe. However, you do need to have a valid North Carolina Coastal Recreational Fishing License before doing so. Check out our Outer Banks Fishing Guides for more information about fishing on Hatteras Island.
Are there bathrooms at Oregon Inlet?
Yes. The Oregon Inlet Fishing Center has restrooms, a gift shop, snacks, and a fish cleaning station.
Make Oregon Inlet Part of Your Next OBX Adventure
Whether you're watching the boats roll in, enjoying the sunrise over the dunes, or reeling in the catch of the day, Oregon Inlet captures the essence of the Outer Banks. It's a place where memories are made, traditions live on, and nature always puts on a show.
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 unforgettable adventure to the Outer Banks. There so much to do and see. With amazing food and drinks, exciting excursions, and plenty of sand for everyone to relax, there's something for everyone here on the Outer Banks.
And don't forget about our layaway plan, which makes booking your dream vacation easier than ever. So don't wait. We're booking Outer Banks vacation rentals year round and we're excited to help you create memories to last a lifetime. We're here to help make your OBX vacation fun, exciting, and hassle-free. Give us a call today! Be sure to provide accurate information and make any necessary payments.
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About the Author: Lauren is an Outer Banks local, mom, history professor, and travel enthusiast. When she isn’t writing for the Seaside Vacations Travel Blog, Lauren can usually be found with her nose in a book or cuddling with her cats.
