It’s been called many things by travel magazines and news outlets over the years, America’s Most Iconic Drive, Most Beautiful Coastal Drive, National Geographic Traveler even named it a “Drive of a Lifetime” It’s not too surprising that the drive along Highway 12 through Cape Hatteras National Seashore “through picturesque towns separated by lighthouses” was listed first on America’s Most Scenic Waterside Drives in the March issue of Travel and Leisure. We couldn’t agree more. Driving along the edge of the continent passing through different ecosystems surrounded by wildlife and water- no matter how many times you’ve been on our scenic byway, it seems there’s something new to discover.

Photo: Aaron Tuell – Outer Banks Visitors Bureau