Everything You Need to Know About Planning A Trip to the Outer Banks
There are 110 miles of coastline lining the barrier islands off North Carolina’s eastern coast. More commonly referred to as the Outer Banks, the options are endless to indulge in your slice of paradise any time of the year. But with so many towns stretching from Corolla to Ocracoke, each better than the last, it can be overwhelming to know where or even when to start your Outer Banks trip planning.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway to reconnect with loved ones or you want to ramp up the adventure, you can’t go wrong with an Outer Banks vacation. The charming towns, history, and miles of coastal nature preserves, you’ll be able to explore and go home feeling renewed. To help you plan the perfect OBX getaway, we've put together everything you need to know about visiting the Outer Banks.
Best Time of Year to Visit the Outer Banks
The most popular time for travelers to visit the Outer Banks is summer. You can expect average highs around 80-90°F and warmer ocean temperatures that make for the best time on the water. Summer is high season, bringing travelers from far and wide so you might run into more crowds than other seasons but there is a reason most people choose to come in the summer. Regardless, OBX is vibrant in the summer and never overly crowded compared to some other coastal destinations so you’ll still have an incredible time.
In contrast, the fall months of September to November bring cooler temperatures around 60-75°F in the heat of the day, fewer crowds, and a more peaceful atmosphere. It’s the perfect time for couples and solo travelers who want a very relaxed beach escape while still catching a few warm sunbathing days here and there. Winter in the Outer Banks is the quietest of the seasons with cooler weather ranging from 40-55°F. This is the perfect season for quiet walks on the beach, cozying up in a vacation rental, and exploring the natural beauty of the islands by taking long walks and hiking the trails without a rush.
Spring usually comes with mild temps around 60-70°F and offers a sweet spot between the peacefulness of winter and the activity of summer. Spring Break around March and April will bring a taste of summer with a bigger influx of crowds and excitement filling the air. There’s a fresh energy in spring as businesses prepare for the busy season ahead. Whatever the time of year, the Outer Banks have a relaxed feel that suits any traveler’s desire for rest and relaxation.
Best Towns to Visit in the Outer Banks
Nags Head
One of the most iconic towns in the Outer Banks, Nags Head is where history meets adventure. Famous for the towering sand dunes at Jockey's Ridge State Park, this is a great spot for kite-flying, hang gliding, and incredible sunrises if you can get out there soon enough. Don’t miss a visit to Nags Head Pier for great fishing or take a leisurely drive to Bodie Island Lighthouse for stunning ocean views.
Corolla
Corolla is known for its wild horses and remote beaches. Harder to reach than some of the other towns, it’s well worth the effort. Corolla is much less crowded than many other towns with more room to spread out and relax. You can take a 4x4 tour to see the famous Corolla wild horses roaming the northernmost beaches, or visit the historic Whalehead Club, an Art Nouveau-style mansion.
Kill Devil Hills
Home to the famous Wright Brothers' first flight, Kill Devil Hills is a history lover’s dream vacation spot. You can visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial to see where aviation was born. The town also offers some of the most pristine stretches of beach, perfect for those who enjoy quiet relaxation with easy access to dining and shopping.
Kitty Hawk
This town strikes the perfect balance between nature and modern convenience. Kitty Hawk is great for families since there are tons of beach access, shops, and restaurants to explore and make amazing memories. Spend a day hiking the nature trails at Kitty Hawk Woods Preserve or try your hand at windsurfing and jet skiing in the Roanoke Sound.
Southern Shores
If you’re looking for a quieter, more residential vibe, Southern Shores is the place to be. With uncrowded beaches and a peaceful, relaxed atmosphere, it’s ideal for those who want to avoid the hustle and bustle. Rent a bike and explore its scenic biking trails then cozy up in your vacation rental for a family game night or watching the sunset from your private balcony.
Duck
Duck is one of the most charming towns in the Outer Banks, with its walkable village layout and scenic boardwalk along the sound. Known for boutique shopping and gourmet dining, this town is perfect for enjoying a pampered vacation. Be sure to check out the Duck Town Park and Boardwalk for beautiful views of the sound. There is even a kayak launch at Duck Town Park to rent a kayak and go exploring on the sound.
PS: Don’t forget to stop by Duck Donuts for some of the best donuts in the world.
Manteo
Located on Roanoke Island, Manteo offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty with water surrounding you on all sides. Don’t miss the Roanoke Island Festival Park, where you can experience living history through a replica of an Elizabethan ship. For a quiet day in nature, stroll through the Elizabethan Gardens or visit the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island for a fun and education adventure!
Best Things to Do in the Outer Banks
With the diverse towns and landscapes native to the Outer Banks, there are an array of activities to choose from so no matter what you prefer, you’ll never be bored. Whether you're seeking adventure, respite, or something in between, there's no shortage of ways to enjoy your time in OBX.
Fishing
From surf fishing on the beach to deep-sea charters, the Outer Banks is a paradise for any skill level. You can fish off one of the many piers, like the one in Nags Head, or charter a boat to head out into the Atlantic for a day of sport fishing. When you charter a boat, you’ll get the helpful knowledge of the captain to guide you, even if you’ve never held a rod and reel before. There's nothing quite like the thrill of reeling in some of the big ones like tuna, marlin, or mahi-mahi!
Water Sports
The OBX is one of the best spots on the East Coast for adventure on the water. Whether you’re looking for something untroubled or exciting, there are a multitude of ways to experience the water around the Outer Banks. There are waterways throughout the Outer Banks that are perfect for exploring on a kayak or paddleboard. You can paddle around the sound or make your way through tributaries and nature preserves. You’ll discover so many hidden gems when you’re close to nature on a kayak.
If you want to ramp it up, beginners and pros alike can take advantage of the consistent winds in spots like Kitty Hawk and Rodanthe for kiteboarding and windsurfing. You can also rent jet skis and ride the waters with some propulsion behind you. Either way, it’s sure to thrill the whole family.
Endless Nature
The Outer Banks is so full of unique landscapes and diverse ecosystems that nature lovers will never run out of things to do. We have mentioned a few options already like Jockey’s Ridge ( not to be missed) and Nags Head Woods Preserve. You can also visit Cape Hatteras National Seashore, one of only 10 National Seashores in the nation, or Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. However, with natural beauty around every corner, you can bring or rent a bike and just see where the road takes you. Either way, the Outer Banks will leave you feeling connected to the coastal environment like never before.
Best Place to Stay in the Outer Banks
There’s no better way to experience the Outer Banks than by booking a vacation rental so you can have your own private place to rest your head every night. For the absolute best Outer Banks vacation rentals, we recommend booking with our 100 Collection™ partner, Coastal Carolina Vacations. They offer a wide selection of beautiful beachfront homes, cottages, and condos that provide the perfect balance of comfort, privacy, and luxury.
High-end amenities await you in these hand-selected masterpieces with everything from private pools and docks to private elevators and double kitchens. You’ll be treated to the ultimate beach vacation when you book with Coastal Carolina Vacations. Their attention to detail is second to none and the personalized service will ensure your trip goes smoothly whether you’re exploring the entire OBX or you never leave your oversized deck.
Book your Outer Banks vacation rental today and be treated to your best vacation yet, the Carolina way.
