Pea Island Refuge
wild beaches and birding on a protected stretch
Pea Island Refuge is one of the places Roamward flags on the Outer Banks Scenic Byway because it gives the drive its texture: wild beaches and birding on a protected stretch. Use it as a planned pull-over instead of letting the route become a blur between towns.
How it fits the drive
The Outer Banks runs Nags Head → Ocracoke, NC. Barrier islands, lighthouses, and ferries.
Nearby route stops
- Bodie Island Lighthouse — a black-and-white-banded tower over the marsh (Outer Banks)
- Cape Hatteras Lighthouse — the tallest brick lighthouse in the U.S. (Outer Banks)
Conditions, access, parking, fees, weather, and seasonal closures can change quickly on scenic routes. Check the managing agency or local visitor information before committing to a side stop.
Build a trip around Outer Banks stops like this.
Roamward turns spots like this into a real road trip on your phone — the scenic drive, the stops, and the detours, planned around the vibe you’re after. Get early access: