Last Minute Getaway in the Outer Banks: Where to Stay, What to Do, Where to Eat
The Outer Banks (OBX) is a unique region along the coast of North Carolina, steeped in mystery and natural phenomenon. Renowned as the home of historical landmarks, including the site of the Wright brothers’ first powered flight in 1903 and Roanoke Island, where the first English settlers in North America disappeared in the late 1500s.
These signify only a small part of what makes these barrier islands so special. The islands themselves provide a one-of-a-kind experience, always shifting and changing due to ocean currents and sand erosion, no two visits will ever be the same.
For a destination that will feel new with every trip, the joy and excitement will remain consistent! Boasting a variety of activities, attractions, and delicious cuisine, the Outer Banks serve as the perfect place to reconnect with nature and experience a thrill unlike any other.
Last minute doesn’t need to mean unprepared, the perfect itinerary for things to do on the OBX is just a scroll away.
Where to Stay
Whether you prefer a high-end bungalow or a rare hideaway, Coastal Carolina Vacations provides sanctuary in each of their Outer Banks vacation rentals. Amenities meant to create the greatest sense of ease are specially curated into every rental, furnished and designed with the highest levels of comfort in mind. These three havens are only a small look into the selection of homes you can call your own.
Best of My Love
Up to 28 Guests | 14 Bedrooms | 15 Bathrooms
Located in Kill Devil Hills, NC, this oceanfront vacation rental is the perfect space for a last-minute getaway with everyone you love most. In a home where the inside is just as grand as outside the front door, guests will enjoy the many amenities that make this property special. Enjoy a private pool, cabana, hot tub, rec room, or theater.
A private wooden walkway and a lovely gazebo lead guests to the beach, and an elevator makes moving about the home easy and seamless. Book your stay and prepare for your last-minute getaway, at Best of My Love, you will feel cherished every moment of your stay.
Stinson Ranch
Up to 6 Guests | 3 Bedrooms | 1.5 Bathrooms
Immersed in historic charm, this over-water oasis is distinct in every way. Guests will love the panoramic view of the Roanoke Sound, the warmth of the indoor fireplace, and the close proximity to all of your favorite spots at this Outer Banks rental. Designed in the ways of old Nags Head architectural styles, this home fully immerses guests in the charm and spirit of their surroundings.
Coastal Carolina Vacations also includes a number of extra services for guests to take advantage of, such as beach umbrellas and cabana rental services. Secure your stay for Stinson Ranch, where rare experiences become a reality.
Serenity by the Sea
Up to 12 Guests | 6 Bedrooms | 4 Bathrooms
Embodying elegance and tranquility, this jaw-dropping oceanfront Outer Banks rental is sure to provide the Outer Banks getaway that you have always wanted. Demonstrating the perfect blend of traditional and modern designs, this home is fully equipped with every detail and amenity that you need to ensure your last-minute beach vacation is one to remember.
Guests will be thrilled by the private beach access, spacious decks, panoramic views, and complimentary cabana service. Charm and comfort come into play in this effortless sanctuary. Reserve your spot for the thrill of a lifetime, luxury is more than a choice, but a guarantee.
What to Do
Jockey’s Ridge State Park
300 W Carolista Dr, Nags Head, NC 27959
Jockey’s Ridge State Park expresses the excitement that exists throughout all of the Outer Banks. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as kite flying, kiteboarding, windsurfing, and hang gliding.
Jockey’s Ridge is also home to the tallest living sand dune system on the Atlantic Coast, ideal for a number of thrilling experiences. Plan your visit, choose your activities, and get ready for truly irreplaceable experiences.
Hiking Trails
Overlooking the Croatan Sound, Owens’ Welcome, found on the grounds of the Owens Welcome Center in Manteo. This short trail, made of boarded planks, welcomes visitors with a center that provides parking, restrooms, and water for all. Travelers can enjoy a number of other close-by trails as well, such as The Freedom Trail, the New Oregon Inlet, Old Nags Head, Kill Devil Hills, and six other trails to choose from.
Each of these trails represent a different level of difficulty, distance , and terrain, allowing you to choose which one works best for you. Consider which route is the trail for you, plan your path, and reconnect with nature in OBX.
Kitty Hawk Aero Tours
The Outer Banks are breathtaking from the ground, but nothing quite beats a sky view! Kitty Hawk Aero Tours provide a unique experience, offering scenic tours of the light house, or one-of-a-kind WWII WACO Bi Plane rides! This historic journey doesn’t end in the sky, however.
On their website, you can rent everything from beach cruisers to surfboards and tandem kayaks! Kitty Hawk is a distinct, but not a singular experience in the Outer Banks. There are many other outdoor adventures to be explored. Choose the expedition that fits you best and take off, all of OBX is at your fingertips.
The Lost Colony
1409 National Park Dr, Manteo, NC 27954
This production is set on the soundfront of Roanoke Island. With 88 seasons under their belt, this symphonic drama is a must-see when visiting the Outer Banks. Enjoy a first-hand discovery of the New World through a dynamic performance of music and theatre. Book your tickets and enjoy the show, America’s oldest mystery waits to be revealed.
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
46379 Lighthouse Rd, Buxton, NC 27920
Protecting one of the most hazardous parts of the Atlantic Coast, stationed in an area given the name Graveyard of the Atlantic. Visitors can embark on a variety of experiences when visiting the lighthouse, such as climbing and virtual experiences. Look out at the Outer Banks with an age-old view.
Through their website you can discover their history, plan your trip, and uncover the legacy of the Outer Banks! While this lighthouse is under construction until 2026, there's also another lighthouse in the area. Try visiting the the Bodie Island Lighthouse instead if a lighthouse fix is still what you need!
Where to Eat
Blue Moon Beach Grill
102 E Dove St, Nags Head, NC 27959
Local, fresh, and mouthwatering, Blue Moon Beach Grill is a tasty experience for every guest who walks through their front door. This Nag's Head dining experience brings along unique artwork upon the walls, daily specials, and the salty, ocean air. This casual dining experience is made up of various local & worldly flavors. Check their menu to see which dish you’ll be having during your last-minute beach getaway.
The Colington Cafe
1029 Colington Rd, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948
Unlike anything you have ever experienced before, The Colington Cafe is known as the Outer Banks’ best-kept secret! Tucked in the live oaks back on winding Colington Road in Kill Devil Hills, the creativity of their locally sourced meals leaves each guest wanting more. Consistently claiming the top spot with a number of reviewers, be sure to check out the The Colington Cafe menu to see which of their extensive dishes will be yours next!
Kill Devil Grill
2008 S Virginia Dare Trail, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948
Nestled in the heart of Kill Devil Hills, this classic grill treasures exotic flavors and a beachy atmosphere above all else. Guests can enjoy a tropical drink (or three!), delicious seafood cuisine, timeless American recipes and so much more. Check their menu and choose your vibe… A great time is quickly approaching!
The Captain’s Table
7114 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC 27959
With family at the forefront of their mission to provide the best casual dining experience in Nags Head, Rick and Erika Gregory found the perfect blend of their values and passions when creating The Captain’s Table. Dedicated to cultivating a variety of different flavors into a journey for each guest to embark upon, The Captain’s Table brings everyone aboard the ship where food meets paradise. Guests looking for liquid courage rather than a tasty dish can visit Captain’s Quarters, located just above the restaurant. This cozy bar is lively and spirited, taking The Captain’s Table to a whole new level of memorable dining experiences.
JK’s
1106 S Croatan Hwy, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948
The serene atmosphere of JK’s offers more than just Kill Devil Hills fine dining, but fresh, locally sourced, and innovative recipes that patrons will naturally gravitate to and crave more and more. Known for warm hospitality, JK’s is the perfect spot for a memorable meal or a romantic dinner, cultivating a space flawlessly set up for all of your last-minute needs. Check their full menu and skip the reservations, JK’s is ready to serve whenever you’re ready to enjoy.
Ocean Blvd Bistro
4700 N Virginia Dare Trail, Kitty Hawk, NC 27949
Ocean Blvd Bistro, in Kitty Hawk, is a hidden gem that embodies upscale dining, focusing on fresh, local seafood and contemporary cuisine, no visitor will be left wanting once they walk through their doors. Renowned for its visionary cocktails and exquisite oceanfront views, even a last-minute dinner can become a special night. Book your reservations and partake in their welcoming vibe and unforgettable setting first-hand.
Art’s Place
4624 N Virginia Dare Trail, Kitty Hawk, NC 27949
Beloved for the food and famed for the vibe, Art’s Place in Kitty Hawk makes every meal your best one yet. Perfect after a day outdoors or unwinding at the beach, the outdoor seating and friendly atmosphere makes this casual eatery the best choice for last-minute dining. Refuel for your Outer Banks adventures and bask in the vibrant local atmosphere. Whether it's a hearty burger or fresh seafood, the Art’s Place menu is sure to leave guests satisfied and ready to take on the Outer Banks.
Ever-changing but consistently delightful, your last-minute beach vacations transform into paradise when you visit Outer Banks, North Carolina. From the Duck Town Park Boardwalk to the Kill Devil Grill and Outer Banks vacation rentals, OBX will be everything and more for every member of your party. Book your stay and pack your bags, the weekend is just a few days away!
