Familiarize yourself with Southern Shores, North Carolina, before your next trip to the Outer Banks. Be sure to check out our available rentals in Southern Shores, and don’t forget to check the forecast before you go. To get a better understanding of average commute times, browse our mileage chart and estimated driving times to other areas of the Outer Banks and important landmarks in the area. You can also explore our detailed Outer Banks map to help you plan your route and make the most of your visit.
Getting Around Southern Shores and the Outer Banks
If you're new to the area, our Outer Banks map can help you understand the region's layout. The Outer Banks runs mostly north to south, with the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the sound to the west—perfect for using the beach as your guide. N.C. Highway 12 is the main road through Southern Shores and much of OBX. You'll also notice Mile Post markers (MP) along the way—sequential signs that help pinpoint local businesses, attractions, and beach access points. For example, MP 1 marks the Aycock Brown Visitor Center in Kitty Hawk.
Explore the Outer Banks Map and Mile Post Landmarks
Our interactive map of the Outer Banks makes it easy to get your bearings across the region. One helpful local feature you'll see along the major roads is the Mile Post (MP) system—sequential markers that indicate locations along the coast.
MP 1 marks the Aycock Brown Visitor Center in Kitty Hawk. As you travel south, you'll pass the Wright Brothers National Memorial at MP 8, Jockey’s Ridge at MP 12.5, Jennette’s Pier at MP 16.5, and eventually reach Hatteras Village at MP 72. These MP indicators are especially helpful when exploring attractions and planning beach days across the OBX.
