NC Hwy 12 to Hatteras Island to Reopen at 4PM; Visitors Welcome

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Bonner Bridge Pier: An OBX Icon for Fishing, Sightseeing & Serenity

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Are you looking for a premier spot for sightseeing? Maybe you're looking to cast your line into Oregon Inlet and get the next big catch? Or maybe you want to take that perfect photo of the sunrise over the ocean or a sunset over the sound? If that's the case, you're going to love the unique experience that the Bonner Bridge Pier offers, making it unlike any other spot on the Outer Banks. This modernized structure is part fishing spot, part scenic walkway, and all Outer Banks charm. Perfect for families, fisherfolk, photographers, and more, here's what you need to know about the Bonner Bridge Pier. And 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!

Address: QF99+2W, Rodanthe, NC 27968

Phone Number: (252) 473-2111

 

Hours & Availability

Hours: 24/7

Cost: FREE

Where Past Meets Present

The Bonner Bridge Pier opened in 2021 on the southern end of the Marc Basnight Bridge, constructed atop pilings from the former Bonner Bridge. The original bridge, which connected Hatteras Island to the mainland for more than five decades, now lives on in a new form, offering a place of peaceful reflection and community connection.

This free, public pier was built with both history and sustainability in mind, preserving a piece of Outer Banks heritage while providing a safe, scenic, and accessible space for all.

A Premier Spot for Casual Fishing

The Bonner Bridge Pier extends roughly 1,046feet into Oregon Inlet, placing you right in the heart of some of the richest fishing waters on the Outer Banks. With no pier fees or fishing license required (thanks to a state blanket license), it’s a perfect entry point for beginners and families.

Anglers commonly catch:

  • Bluefish

  • Spanish Mackerel

  • Flounder

  • Speckled Trout

  • Red Drum

Whether you’re casting at sunrise or enjoying an afternoon bite, the Bonner Bridge Pier offers a peaceful, non-commercial alternative to traditional fishing piers.

*NOTE: All anglers must have a coastal North Carolina Fishing License to fish from the pier. All state length and catch restrictions must be adhered to.

Not Just for Anglers

What is there to do at the Bonner Bridge Pier if you're not fishing? Even if fishing isn’t your thing, this pier delivers big on beauty and serenity. From sunrise to sunset, the wide views of the ocean, bridge, and inlet make it a favorite for:

  •  Photographers chasing light and waves

  •  Walkers and joggers looking for a scenic route

  •  Birdwatchers spotting pelicans, osprey, and shorebirds

  •  Families enjoying a free outdoor outing

  •  Sightseers wanting a front-row view of the boats heading out to sea

Benches along the pier invite you to sit, breathe in the salt air, and simply enjoy the rhythm of the water and wind.

Things to Know Before You Go

  • Location: End of NC Hwy 12, on the Oregon Inlet side of the Marc Basnight Bridge

  • Cost: FREE! No fishing or entry fees (NOTE: A valid fishing is required to fish from the pier)

  • Parking: Large gravel lot available at the pier entrance, maintained by the NPS

  • Pet Friendly: No - pets are PROHIBITED on the Bonner Pier

  • Best Times to Visit: Stop by for an early morning sunrise or an afternoon/evening Golden Hour view

Check out the NPS website for all rules and regulations.

Things to Do Nearby

Stay Nearby!

The Bonner Bridge Pier offers more than a view—it offers perspective. It’s a place where locals and visitors share a moment, a memory, and a love for the water that defines this coastal paradise. Whether you’re dropping a line, snapping a photo, or simply breathing in the salt air, it’s a must-visit on your next OBX adventure. Want to stay close to the pier and other natural OBX wonders? Explore vacation rentals in Nags Head to find your perfect coastal getaway just minutes from this beautiful spot.

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.

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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Explore our website and give us a call to help kick-start your unforgettable Outer Banks vacation today.  Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Pinterest, and TikTok to stay up to date on all of our specials, new & featured homes, and tips & tricks for making the most of your next Outer Banks vacation.

We’ll see you at the beach.

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