Visit Historic Kill Devil Hills - the site of the Wright Brothers' first flight in 1903
Kill Devil Hills is best known as the site of the Wright Brothers’ first powered flight in 1903, a milestone that forever placed this coastal town in the history books. Long before that, the northern Outer Banks was dominated by massive sand dunes, with Kill Devil Hill being one of the tallest. The town’s name likely comes from “Kill Devil,” a strong rum that washed ashore during the colonial era.
In 1878, the Kill Devil Hills Life-Saving Station was established to aid shipwreck victims, with surfmen who later assisted the Wright Brothers in their famous flight. Today, the town is the oldest township on the Outer Banks, officially incorporated in 1953, and remains a vibrant community with around 7,000 year-round residents.
Centrally located between Nags Head and Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills is now a top vacation spot. Visitors return year after year for its wide beaches, coastal charm, and variety of vacation rentals, from cozy cottages to spacious oceanfront homes. Whether you're here for the history or the beach, Kill Devil Hills offers the perfect place to stay and play on the Outer Banks. Browse our selection of Kill Devil Hills vacation rentals below!