The Outer Banks Sand Dunes (Jockey's Ridge State Park)

If you're vacationing at the Outer Banks during the summer, you probably won't be able to enjoy the dunes much during the day because of the heat. The sand gets extremely hot - and you'll likely be walking barefoot - which makes the air feel hotter too. You'll find it much more enjoyable to go after dinner. The park closes at 8:30pm, so keep that in mind. I go around 7:00. The sights are breathtaking. Especially if you go around 7:00 and stay until 8:30 because you'll get to watch the sunset.

If you're interested in sandboarding (snowboarding on sand), it's important that you go during the Winter months as sandboarding isn't allowed during the summer.

Hang gliding is allowed year-round.

There's no special outfit for walking on the dunes. It's common to just wear what you've warn the rest of the day. Keep in mind, there will be sand getting up to your ankles at times. There is a spot at the entrance of the park to leave your shoes if you choose to do so. If you plan on doing more than just walking, you might not want to wear nice clothes. There's a handful of things to do at the sand dunes.

Sandboarding - snowboarding in the sand. Note: this is only allowed during winter months)

Hang gliding - check out the video to see some skilled gliders ripping up Jockey's Ridge.

Running down the dunes - I'm not sure why, but people love doing this. I love watching because approximately seven people fall on their face per minute.

Hiking - There's a lot of great hiking terrain at the sand dunes.

Photography - You won't be short of beautiful things to take pictures of at Jockey's Ridge.