Outer Banks, NC Travel Guide
Every time I think of the Outer Banks, I hear John B say “The Outer Banks…” and it brings back summer memories here.
The Outer Banks, also known as OBX on many car bumper stickers, are a thin, 200-mile long stretch of barrier islands, east of the North Carolina mainland. At its widest point, the OBX are about 3 miles wide, and its narrowest, only 150 yards. The Atlantic ocean borders the OBX on the East, and a couple sounds border on the West.
You won’t find any cities on the OBX, but rather, 15 towns. Kill Devil Hills is the most populated town. It has a population of 7,000 year-round, according to the U.S. Census, and 40,000+ during the peak summer season.
These towns aren’t quite as charming as the quaint towns on Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket (my favorites), but the water is warmer and less great white shark-infested. Nor are the OBX towns as ritzy as Southampton and Easthampton, but some towns do offer plenty of local eateries with great ambiance and aesthetics (more below in Where to Stay). You won’t find great, plentiful nightlife in the OBX like you will in Montauk, but the two share some daytime similarities with the roots of an old, sleepy town and fisherman’s haven.
The OBX are perfect for someone on the mid-Atlantic looking to go to take a road trip to beautiful and pristine beaches. This vacation spot caters to large groups looking to spend a week in a vacation rental, but also weekending couples and families in hotels. An abundance of fresh seafood awaits at the restaurants and markets, and although some restaurants could use some updating, we found several that a bright, coastal, and charming ambiance that enhanced the fresh catch of the day. The vibe here tends to be casual, but I found and listed a couple of upscale places that would be great for date night.
At the beaches, I never got the impression that they were overrun with children, like a kid’s pool. The OBX does a great job of being able to cater to kids, family, and family activities, but also to bachelorette and bachelor parties, large groups of 8+, and even couples on a romantic weekend getaway.
Many people that visit the OBX grew up summering there, so if you haven’t been yet, I encourage you to try the warmer and less great white shark-infested water (if you’re coming from New England). If you’re coming from Myrtle Beach or many of the tourist-y beaches in Florida, enjoy the more posh, but still casual OBX.
If you don’t live in the mid-Atlantic and are now curious about a visit to the elusive OBX, keep reading on how to get there below.
Jump to the following sections:
Getting to the OBX
Until 1930, the OBX were remote and only accessible by ferries, making them a hot vacation destination for wealthy and elite hunters and vacationers.
“It was this elite initial band of clientele that led to the area’s expansion, as word spread of the remote but beautiful beaches, and fancy beach cottages and hunting clubs were built all along the central and northern Outer Banks’ coastlines” according to outerbanks.com. “In fact, a line of these original early 1900s homes still stand along the oceanfront in Nags Head, affectionately referred to as “Millionaire’s Row” as a nod to the first elite visitors who frequented the area.”
Even today, the OBX remain a little difficult to get to if you don’t live within driving distance.
Driving
The Northernmost part of the OBX, Carova Beach in Corolla, is connected by land to the Southernmost part of Virginia Beach via the beach access gate at Sandbridge. So if you’re driving from Virginia, you may just think you can pass through, and you’d be wrong.
- There is a locked gate at this NC-VA border that only 14 or fewer residents on the OBX side have access to
- The VA side has False Cape State Park, which is illegal to drive through aside from Carova Beach residents
- You would need a 4WD vehicle that could drive on sand because the crossing is unpaved
With that cleared up, there are 3 ways to drive into the OBX. They are all via state highway bridges from the North Carolina mainland. From North to South and oldest to newest, the bridges consist of: the Wright Memorial Bridge, the William B. Umstead Bridge, and the Virginia Dare Memorial Bridge. After crossing the Wright Memorial Bridge into the OBX, you will be in the town of Kitty Hawk.
After crossing either the Umstead Bridge or the Virginia Dare Memorial Bridge (both are on U.S. Highway 64) onto Roanoake Island, you will stay on Highway 64 which turns into the Washington Baum Bridge from Roanoke Island to Pond Island, and then the Melvin R Daniels Bridge from Pond Island to Nags Head, which is part of the main, eastern-most strip of the OBX. As a result, crossing from the NC Mainland via Highway 64 into the OBX on either the William B. Umstead Bridge or the Virginia Dare Memorial Bridge will ultimately bring you to the town of Nags Head.
If you’re driving from Greensboro, NC and anywhere South or Southwest of Greensboro, the fastest way to get to the OBX will be over the Southernmost bridge, the Virginia Dare Memorial Bridge. If you’re coming from Norfolk, VA and anywhere North, Northeast, and Northwest of Norfolk, the fastest way to get to the OBX will be over the Northernmost bridge, the Wright Memorial Bridge (also the most popular route). The William B. Umstead Bridge will take a little longer when approaching from the South and is hardly used.
Drive time estimates listed below are from the major city listed to the closest OBX town after crossing 1 of the 3 bridges (without traffic and stops):
| Origin | OBX Nearest Destination | Driving Time (no traffic, no stops) |
| Norfolk/Virginia Beach, VA | Kitty Hawk, NC | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Richmond, VA | Kitty Hawk, NC | 2 hours 45 minutes |
| Raleigh, NC | Nags Head, NC | 3 hours 15 minutes |
| Ocean City, MD | Kitty Hawk, NC | 4 hours |
| Greensboro, NC | Nags Head, NC | 4 hours 15 minutes |
| Wilmington, NC | Nags Head, NC | 4 hours 15 minutes |
| Washington, DC | Kitty Hawk, NC | 4 hours 30 minutes |
| Annapolis, MD | Kitty Hawk, NC | 5 hours |
| Charlotte, NC | Nags Head, NC | 5 hours 20 minutes |
| Myrtle Beach, SC | Nags Head, NC | 5 hours 30 minutes |
| Philadelphia, PA | Kitty Hawk, NC | 6 hours 15 minutes |
| Asheville, NC | Nags Head, NC | 6 hours 40 minutes |
| Charleston, SC | Nags Head, NC | 6 hours 40 minutes |
| Savannah, GA | Nags Head, NC | 7 hours 15 minutes |
| New York City, NY | Kitty Hawk, NC | 7 hours 30 minutes |
| Pittsburgh, PA | Kitty Hawk, NC | 7 hours 45 minutes |
| Knoxville, TN | Nags Head, NC | 8 hours 30 minutes |
| Atlanta, GA | Nags Head, NC | 8 hours 45 minutes |
| New Haven, CT | Kitty Hawk, NC | 9 hours |
| Jacksonville, FL | Nags Head, NC | 9 hours |
| Columbus, OH | Kitty Hawk, NC | 10 hours |
Flying
Commercial
If you’re flying commercial, you will still need to rent a car, because the nearest commercial airport is a 1 hour 30 minute drive away. Unless, of course, you’re trying to give a taxi, Uber, or Lyft driver the inheritance of your first born (and you can convince them to take you that far).
- Norfolk International Airport ORF (near Virginia Beach) is the closest airport, 77 miles north. Without traffic, it’ll take 1 hour 30 minutes to get to Kitty Hawk, NC. Allegiant Air, Breeze Airways, American, Delta, Frontier, Southwest, and United fly here.
- Coastal Carolina Regional Airport EWN (near Emerald Isle, NC) is 144 miles southwest, or a 2 hour 30 minute drive away from Nags Head, NC. American flies here.
- Raleigh-Durham International Airport RDU is 211 miles west, or a 3 hr 15 minute drive away from Nags Head, NC. Southwest, Alaska, Allegiant Air, Air Canada, American, Delta, Frontier, jetBlue, Spirit, Sun Country, and United fly here.
Private
I included private flights here for 2 reasons.
- I’m currently going for my Private Pilots License (blog post to come), so this is relevant to my friends, family, fellow pilots, and aviators, especially the brave ones willing to join me on my first flight here someday.
- Orville Wright completed the first powered flight of a heavier-than-air aircraft known as the Wright Flyer, commonly referred to as “The First Flight” from Kill Devil Hills (now KFFA) in 1903. Many aviators will fly here at least once in their lifetime, some even annually. If you’re interested in flying private as a non-pilot/student and can’t afford the thousands of dollars it would cost to charter a flight here, look into joining a local flying/aviation club. I think you’d be surprised at how many people would be willing to fly here and how “cheap” it can be, especially from the east coast with a full, small aircraft.
Ferry
You can take one of two ferries from the NC mainland to get to the OBX, but I wouldn’t recommend it, because the ferries only go to Ocracoke Island, the southernmost part of the OBX. There are no other ferry options to get from the mainland to the OBX.
Ocracoke Island is only accessible via ferry or small plane. So if you’re looking to explore the rest of the OBX, after taking a ferry from the mainland to Ocracoke Island, you would have to take a second ferry from Ocracoke Island to Hatteras. In addition, you’d have to take your car on both these ferries, because if you’re going to explore the OBX, the best way is with a car, which could cost up to $45 on each ferry (depending on car size). Parking is also very limited on Ocracoke Island.
The only time I would recommend taking a ferry from the NC mainland to the OBX is if you only want to visit Ocracoke Island (without seeing the rest of the OBX). If you only care to explore the quaint Ocracoke town, you won’t need to bring your car, but if you want to see some of the renowned, remote beaches, I would look into bike or scooter rentals, or if traveling with multiple people, bringing your car on the ferry.
One ferry leaves from Swan Quarter, and the other ferry leaves from Cedar Island, both near Emerald Isle, NC. With limited parking spots available on the ferries, lines and wait times to get onboard the ferries from the mainland can be long. Each ferry takes 2.5 hours to get to Ocracoke Island. Tickets for pedestrians cost $1, and tickets for cars cost between $15 and $45 depending on car size.
In summary, the ferry from the NC mainland is a good option if you only want to see Ocracoke Island. Reservations are recommended on both routes.
Getting Around the OBX
If you don’t have a private jet or boat, driving or renting a car or utilizing and using the ferry when available will be your best modes of transport.
Driving
You will need a car to get around the OBX. Public transportation doesn’t exist, and Ubers and Lyft are hard to find and an unreliable source here, especially in the summer with lots of tourists. However, there are two major taxi companies, Atlantic Cab and Island Taxi, if that’s your vibe and you’re okay with paying a small fortune to tour the island.
Many popular attractions on the OBX are spread out and dispersed throughout the northern, central, and southern towns. If you’re an activity vacationer, like me, you will want to explore many parts of the island to see the most popular attractions. It’s a 3 hour drive (without traffic) to drive the entire length of the OBX, before needing to hop on an hour-long express ferry from Hatteras to the southernmost part of the OBX, Ocracoke Island. In the peak summer season, you will also hit 20-30 minute stretches of traffic.
Even if you stay in a centrally-located town, it will take you 1 hour 20 minutes (w/o traffic) to drive to the Northernmost beach (with wild horses!), but it will also take you that same amount of time to drive to the famed Hatteras Lighthouse in the south. If you’re looking to explore famed Ocracoke Island at the southernmost part from a centrally-located town, the drive will take you 1 hour 40 minutes (w/o traffic), followed by the hour-long express ferry ride from Hatteras to Ocracoke Island.
I repeat, you will need a car if you’re an activity person or plan on sightseeing/exploring the various towns of the OBX.
The only time you would not need a car is if you are…
- Flying private to KFFA (First Flight Airport) in Kill Devil Hills, NC (one of the central OBX towns). More on private flights to KFFA in next section
- Willing to pay ~$10 for a taxi (Atlantic Cab or Island Taxi) or don’t mind walking 1 mile with luggage from KFFA to…
- Travelodge by Wyndham Outer Banks (closest hotel)
- A nearby Kill Devils Hills B&B
- Or a Kill Devil Hills rental house
- Not planning on leaving the place you’re staying often/sightseeing
- Don’t mind paying a hefty taxi fee anytime you want to go farther than a couple miles away from wherever you’re staying
- Only visiting and staying on Ocracoke Island
Ferry
If you’re interested in a day trip to Ocracoke Island, the southernmost part of the OBX, only a ferry or small plane will get you there. I recommend driving south on the OBX to the Hatteras Ferry terminal. Then, take the $5 Ocracoke Express ferry to Ocracoke Island, which has 3 daily departure times. You cannot bring a car aboard the ferry, but there’s no need, as you will be in the heart of Ocracoke’s town at the Ocracoke Ferry terminal. Reservations are recommended.
Where to Stay
Which Town
Nags Head is the best town to stay in on the OBX. Here’s why. Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, and Nags Head are the most populated, especially in the summer, so they also have the most restaurants and shops. I prefer to stay in towns that have good dining and shopping options, because of the ability to support local businesses and the convenience of eating out. Not only do you have more options in these 3 towns, but the options seem to be more updated, with charming and modern aesthetics, plus great ambiance.
Nags Head is my favorite because it has the largest Atlantic Ocean coastline (11 miles) out of the 3 towns, which means more ocean-front beach house rentals. Compare this to Kill Devil Hills and Kitty Hawk, which have only 5 miles and 3.6 miles of Atlantic Ocean coastline, respectively.
If you’re worried about the beaches being overcrowded due to the popularity of Nags Head, I haven’t found that to be an issue, even during peak summer season. The key is to stay in an ocean-front rental home (more below), which means less parking lots/public beach access. You won’t find the pristine, empty, undeveloped coastlines in Nags Head like you would on the northern and southern beaches of the OBX. But the tradeoff is you have plenty of restaurants and shops to choose from with more ambiance, and…
The central location of Nags Head makes sightseeing attractions in the northern and southern OBX easier. One day you can watch the wild horses on the northern beaches. The following day you can explore the Hatteras Lighthouse and Ocracoke Island on the southern end.
Rental or Hotel
Rentals for large groups or a week-long vacation. Hotels for couples or families looking to stay a long weekend.
Rental
If you can muster up enough people, I recommend renting an oceanfront beach house. The cost will be similar or even cheaper than a hotel during peak season. For example, In May of 2021, I stayed in a massive 3-story, 6-bedroom, 7.5 bathroom Nags Head oceanfront beach rental with 7 other people and 2 dogs. Amenities included a pool, hot tub, unobstructed ocean views from 2nd and 3rd floor balconies, game room with pool table, dining table and kitchen counter seating for 17, and a short path to beach access. The cost was ~$600 per person for a week.
I mention unobstructed views because when staying at an oceanfront home, seeing the ocean and beach are very important to me. All along the OBX, there are massive sand dunes between the Atlantic Ocean beaches and the oceanfront homes due to the threats posed by hurricanes and shoreline erosion. These sand dunes can be so tall, that they block even 3rd floor views of the ocean and beaches. I like to be able to walk out onto a balcony in the morning, sip my coffee, and read while watching the waves crash and break onto the shore, so we prioritized finding a home that had views of the beach from the 3rd story. Many of the homes that had great views from the 3rd floors were either non-beachfront, or sat on top of a hill and had a much longer path to beach access.
We also desired a short walk to the beach. In general, Nags Head/Kitty Hawk/Kill Devil Hills beachfront homes tend to have shorter walks to the beach compared to beach homes in the northern and southern portion of the OBX. When carrying chairs, umbrellas, beach bags, and Yetis, short walks are crucial.
Beach house rentals are booked quickly. Plan on booking months in advance, especially oceanfront beach houses, which should be booked ideally 9-12 months in advance. Most beach house rentals require a 1-week minimum stay, beginning on either Saturdays or Sundays.
Start by looking on AirBNB and VRBO. If there aren’t enough options or they are too expensive, google local Outer Banks housing rental companies. There are too many to list here.
Hotel
If you’re looking to get away for only a few days, or with only 1 other person, a hotel will be the most cost effective. I’m a Marriott person, so I’d recommend staying at the only Marriott property on the OBX, the beachside TownePlace Suites in Kill Devil Hills. Every room allows up to 2 pets, and comes with a fully equipped kitchen, a living/sitting area, and a desk. The hotel also offers a complimentary Continental breakfast, has a heated indoor pool, a fitness center, and guest laundry facilities.
If the Marriott is fully booked, there are plenty of other hotels, inns, and B&Bs, up and down the OBX.
Where to Eat
Waterfront dining, quality of food and drinks, fellow diners, and ambiance are all very important to me at beach destinations. Here are my picks.
Breakfast & Brunch
Here are the 11 best breakfast & brunch places on the OBX.
1. Freshfit Cafe, Nags Head
This was my favorite breakfast spot. It’s a juice/smoothie bar and cafe for the health-conscious. They have outdoor, shaded waterfront seating and a bright, diner style, charming interior with great ambiance. Get your coffee and gluten-free breakfast with a view here.
2. Nags Head Cafe, Nags Head
We were craving mimosas and bloody mary’s and this seemed to be one of the few restaurants serving alcohol at breakfast. We were surprised to find such a gem in this quaint, unassuming from the outside cafe! Everything here is made fresh to order, even the fries and freshly squeezed orange juice made for a phenomal mimosa! The food and drinks were fantastic and the cafe interior is bright and modern. The customer service was excellent as well! Nags Head Cafe is also open for lunch and dinner, and is a local, highly underrated gem not to be missed.
3. Morning View Coffee House & Roastery, Nags Head
Best cup of coffee on the OBX with a charming coastal interior. There aren’t many bakery food options, but the spinach and feta pastry was excellent. Grab your coffee and pastry, then sit at a table in the garden out back.
4. Waverider’s Coffee Deli & Pub, Nags Head
I adore the aesthetic and ambiance here, which combines industrial concrete flooring and steel gray colors with coastal blue and white, natural wood shades, and plush chairs. The coffee, sandwiches, paninis, bagels, pastries, and 17 local beers/ciders on tap receive great reviews. They even sell mimosa buckets for the beach!
5. Duck Donuts, Hatteras, Nags Head, Kill Devil Hills, Kitty Hawk, Duck, Corolla
Although they can be found all over the East Coast from Florida to New York, no trip to the OBX is complete without trying the original OBX Duck Donuts in Duck. What’s so special about these donuts? The donut is a freshly-made vanilla cake donut that you choose the coating, toppings, and drizzle on top. They are served fresh, warm, and made-to-order. Don’t know what to make at your first visit? Try one of the featured donuts – my favorite is the Maple Bacon donut (maple icing with chopped bacon).
6. The Spot, Kitty Hawk and Nags Head
Famed for its acai bowls, but also offers smoothies and ice cream.
7. Lighthouse Bagels & Deli, Corolla
Their bagels are kettle boiled and baked from scratch, bringing New York-style bagels to the OBX. The signature French Toast bagel is their speciality. They also serve bagel sandwiches and deli food. The interior is modern and clean, but nothing special. Plan on eating at a picnic table out front.
8. Sam & Omie’s, Nags Head
If you’re looking for breakfast with seafood, this is the place, and one of the most popular breakfast spots on the OBX. I actually like the interior of this heavily-wooded restaurant, with dark wood floors white-washed wood paneling walls, and a dark wooden ceiling.
9. Ocracoke Coffee, Ocracoke Island
The inside and outside patio are charming and remind me of a modern costal cottage. Get a bagel and coffee and enjoy outside.
10. Stack ‘Em High Pancakes, Kill Devil Hills and Kitty Hawk
If you’re craving pancakes or French toast with generous portions, look no further. The inside reminds me of a colorful, cafeteria-style kitchen. One of the other popular breakfast spots on the OBX. Again, must look past the carpet for this OBX breakfast staple.
11. Biscuits N’ Porn, Nags Head
This might be the only time to stop at a gas station for food. An iconic convenience store with the merchandise to match. No seating, so grab your biscuits, sausage gravy, and Biscuits N’ Porn sticker on the go.
Lunch & Dinner
The famed dishes to try while on the OBX are local hushpuppies, lump crab cake, fried green tomatoes, She Crab soup, and the fresh catch of the day. Note that some of these restaurants are only open seasonally. Check the restaurant’s websites for the most up-to-date openings and hours. Many places are closed Mondays and Tuesdays, even in the summer. Here are my top 10 picks.
1. Fish Heads Bar & Grill, Nags Head
This is one of my favorite places we went, although we only stayed for happy hour. You’re seated on the pier, and can get $0.15 shrimp during the 4-6pm happy hour (minimum of 20 shrimp or $3 per order). We walked a mile along the beach to get here from the beach house, so we could enjoy several drinks during happy hour and walk off some of the shrimp. It gets packed during happy hour, so plan to get there by 3:45pm so you’re seated around 4.
2. Blue Water Grill and Raw Bar, Manteo
Come here for the best upscale dinner that also has a view! The dining room overlooks the Pirate Cove Marina. The first floor covered outdoor patio looks right out onto the docks on Roanoke Island. The food and drinks are excellent and this place reminds me of dining in costal New England.
3. The Blue Point, Duck
I’m not a fan of the dark, dimly lit inside with red booths, but the back outdoor patio is beautiful. There are limited outside tables on a covered patio, but if you’re looking to enjoy a sunset cocktail, there are plenty of Adirondack chairs on the lawn overlooking a dock and sunset on the Currituck Sound. Order the Seared Outer Banks Sea Scallops or She Crab Soup.
4. Miller’s Waterfront Restaurant, Nags Head
Come here for the best sunset over the Albemarle Sound and excellent food from a more upscale establishment. Sit on the shaded outside patio or the enclosed upper deck to get the best views. The first floor is a little dark and dated, but the upstairs deck has wood flooring and a more modern aesthetic. Try the Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes.
5. Blue Moon Beach Grill, Nags Head
This spot was under renovation when I visited, but is open now. It’s still at the top of my last to visit next time. From the outside, it looks like a hole in the wall, but the inside has charm and a modern seaside aesthetic with colorful buoys, updated tables and chairs, a light wood floor, and local artwork for sale on the walls. The food, drinks, and service receive excellent reviews.
6. The Kill Devil Grill, Kill Devil Hills
The vibes here are casual and retro. Great spot for lunch. The covered outdoor seating is charming with string lights, picnic tables, and turf grass, and my first choice to sit. They also have a bar inside an antique diner car with eclectic ambiance, my second choice to sit. I’m not a fan of the dining room ambiance itself, which evokes a 70s-style diner. Despite the dining room decor, locals and tourists alike rave about the food. Order the Crab Cake Sandwich and thank me later.
7. Mama Kwan’s Tiki Bar & Grill, Kill Devil Hills
Come here for the best fish tacos on the OBX. They are truly legendary. Relax and enjoy the tropical Tiki Bar decor and laid back, casual experience.
8. Tortuga’s Lie, Nags Head
If you’re craving Caribbean food or more fish tacos, look no further! The aesthetic is beachy eclectic with license plates all over a wood tongue and groove ceiling with coastal blue and white walls. The covered patio seating outside next to eh sand volleyball court was my favorite.
9. Basnight’s Lone Cedar Cafe, Nags Head
Basnight’s is woman-owned, perfect for large groups, and renowned for fresh, local seafood. Look past the green carpet and antique decor and you’ll find waterfront views from the windows and the famed osprey’s nest right outside.
10. I Got Your Crabs, Kitty Hawk
Don’t judge a book by its cover! If you want blue crabs, crab bisque, soft shell crab, or she crab soup, this is the best place to go. The dining room is tiny, so consider ordering a bushel to go and eating back at your hotel/rental.
What to Do
The beaches are the star attraction here. I could lounge all day every day on the beach with a good book in hand, so this would be my first recommendation anyway. But I’m also an activity person. So I get it if you’re ready to see the rest of the OBX, or it’s a rainy day, and I’ve provided my recommendations for both situations.
Note that I am not a fan of fishing, so you won’t see anything related to that here, but if you are, read up on Ocracoke Island.
Also note that there are 7 golf courses on the OBX, only 1 of which I played. If you’re staying at a rental house, see if the owners are members at any courses and if you can get a discounted round.
Spend all day on the beach, and possibly photograph wild horses!
If you’re staying at an oceanfront house, like I recommend, this will be really easy. Find a good spot to post up on the beach all day and get cozy with a kindle. Bring the yeti, beach chairs, and matching umbrella and you’re set.
If you don’t mind driving to a beach, here are my recommendations. Always go to a beach on the Atlantic side, so you get the breaking waves, sea breeze, and the most sand. Unless you’re trying to kayak or paddle board on calm waters… then stay on the Sound side. With that straightened out, if you’re looking for a beach with great waves and water sport rentals, go to a beach in Kill Devil Hills, Kitty Hawk, or Nags Head in that order. You’ll also have great options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner near these beaches. If you go to a Nags Head Atlantic beach, take a stroll down Jennette’s Pier, the longest public pier in the state.
We stayed on the Nags Head beach with two leashed dogs, but saw many dogs roaming freely with owners nearby. If you’re looking for the most dog-friendly beach, head over to Duck’s beaches, where leashes are optional with dogs under owner supervision. Stop and walk along Jeanette’s Pier, which is wind-powered!
If you’re looking to see the famous Wild Colonial Spanish Mustang horses, you may be lucky enough to see them strolling along a Corolla Beach. To have a much better chance of seeing them, take the 2-hour guided Hummer tour! Note that some of the northern Corolla Beaches (especially the northernmost 11-mile Carova Beach stretch) require driving on sand to access them – if you don’t have 4WD, I don’t recommend attempting this. This trip may call you to rent your first Jeep Wrangler, let some air out of the tires, and get on your way off-the-road. If you’d rather ride horses on the beach, there are domesticated ones for that purpose, too!
When you want a break from the crowds and are looking for undeveloped coastline with pristine beaches, Ocracoke Island beaches or Hatteras beaches will be your best bet. They are simply breathtaking.
Lastly, don’t miss out on a sunrise at one of the Atlantic Ocean beaches, even if you’re not a morning person (like me)!
Explore the Northern OBX
Top 5 things to do in Duck and Corolla.
1. Corolla Wild Horses
As I mentioned above, seeing the Corolla wild horses on the beach is a must!
2. Currituck Beach Lighthouse
Climb up the 220 steps to the top of the Currituck Beach Lighthouse and enjoy the views.
3. Whalehead in Historic Corolla
Take a tour of the Whalehead in Historic Corolla on the Currituck Sound. This opulent, former private retreat was built in the 1920s, and only opened to the public in 2002! The inside has been restored to its former glory when it was first built.
4. Duck Boardwalk
Go on a sunset stroll on Duck’s boardwalk to soak in the views of the Sound as dusk rolls in.
5. Visit the Boutique Shops
Pray it rains at least one morning so you can visit the upscale boutique shops in Duck and Corolla.
Explore the Central OBX
There’s so much to do in the Central OBX, so I narrowed it down to my top 10!
1. Wright Brothers National Memorial
Muslims have Mecca. Aviators the Wright Brothers National Memorial. Stop at the First Flight Boulder, designating the spot where the Wright Flyer lifted from the OBX for 12 seconds to mark the first flight of a heavier-than-air aircraft. Take a guided tour, stop by the visitor center, and take pictures by the full-scale replica of the Wright Flyer
2. Bodie Island Lighthouse
Climb up 214 steps to take in more breathtaking views from the Bodie (pronounced like “body”) Island lighthouse.
3. Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse
The Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse is the only river lighthouse on the OBX, which means it was used to guard the entrance to the river and harbors. As a result, it’s much shorter than the 5 other coastal lighthouses on the OBX, all of which you should see and are listed in this guide! This lighthouse was built in 2004 and is a replica of the 1877 original.
4. Jockey’s Ridge State Park Sand Dunes
Walk up the tallest active natural sand dune on the East Coast that reaches up to 100 ft high. If you’re brave enough, become a student at one of the largest hang-gliding schools in the world here and join the others hang gliding from the top. Take in the views of calm Roanoke Sound on one side, and the Atlantic Ocean on the opposite side, with endless sand in between.
5. Oregon Inlet Life Saving Station
This Life-Saving Station was the first of its kind in the country to have an all-black crew, and it was the first in the nation to have a black man, Richard Etheridge, as commanding officer.
6. Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station Historic Site
If you can go Thursday at 2pm, you’ll witness a life-saving drill demonstration. This was one of 271 Life-Saving Stations in the country, which was eventually replaced by the Coast Guard when helicopters made ocean rescue easier than by boats alone. It is now one of the few remaining life-saving stations still standing.
7. Outer Banks Brewing Station
Sustainability we can get behind! Try a flight at the 1st wind-powered brewery in the U.S. to help preserve this fragile, unique area’s ecosystem. Recognized as an ocean-friendly establishment by the Ocean Plastic Project, Inc. and Outer Banks Chapter of Surfrider Foundation in their ongoing effort to reduce, recycle and encourage patrons to “ditch the straw”, the Outer Banks Brewing Station remains in the forefront of businesses responding to the challenge to become eco-friendly. Stop for the beer, stay for the live music, and keep coming back to take a stand against climate change. Brewery tours on Wednesdays at 3.
8. OBX Winery
Get a flight at the only winery on the OBX. Because wine not?
9. Fort Raleigh National Historic Site
Visit the first English Settlement site turned to museum!
10. North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island
I always debate on visiting and even including aquariums and zoos for ethical reasons, such as animals in captivity. If you’re unfamiliar, read PETA’s post here. Why I am including this aquarium is in the hopes that visitors will see just how delicate and fragile this OBX ecosystem is, especially when witnessing the conservation efforts first-hand in the Sea Turtle Assistance and Rehabilitation (STAR) Center. This Aquarium is a great place to learn more about ocean conservation and beach cleanliness.
To do your part in keeping the OBX clean and beautiful, remember to ditch the straws, avoid single-use plastic, pick up after yourself (trash) and your pets, don’t leave beach chairs out overnight, and stay off protected dunes!
Explore the Southern OBX
The Southern OBX are more remote and untouched, and any experience here is likely to be magical. Here are my top 5 activity recommendations!
1. Cape Hatteras Lighthouse and Cape Hatteras National Seashore
If you could only see one lighthouse on the OBX, this is it. The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is a staggering 210 ft tall, making it the tallest brick lighthouse in the U.S., and the 2nd tallest in the world. The reason this lighthouse is so tall is because it protects one of the most hazardous sections of the Atlantic Coast.
“Offshore of Cape Hatteras, the Gulf Stream collides with the Virginia Drift, a branch of the Labrador Current from Canada. This current forces southbound ships into a dangerous twelve-mile long sandbar called Diamond Shoals. Hundreds and possibly thousands of shipwrecks in this area have given it the reputation as the Graveyard of the Atlantic.”
https://www.nps.gov/caha/
While you’re here, also spend some time relaxing and exploring the undeveloped 70 miles of seashore on the Cape Hatteras National Seashore.
2. Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum
Learn more about the OBX while touring this free museum that focuses on the maritime history and thousands of shipwrecks off the OBX. Donations are recommended.
3. Ocracoke Island and Ocracoke Island Lighthouse
Ocracoke Island is definitely the most remote part of the OBX. It can only be reached by private boat, private plane, or ferry, but if you’re into 16 miles of virtually untouched, white sand beaches, a quaint town, and charming locals, this is the place for you.
Photograph the wild ponies that like to hang around the sound side of the beach at the Pony Pens.
You may know him as Blackbeard the pirate – learn about Edward Teach’s life and death on Ocracoke Island at Teach’s Hole Pirate Museum.
If you’re on the island in May, check to see if you’re there during the annual memorial ceremony that honors the British ships sunk by the German submarines during WWII while defending the North Carolina coast. Bodies of British sailors washed ashore and were buried on the island in a small cemetery where a British flag flies at all times. This site is an official British cemetery, maintained by the United States Coast Guard station on Ocracoke Island.
At over 200 years old, the Ocracoke Island lighthouse is North Carolina’s oldest lighthouse in operation, and the second oldest in the U.S. The lighthouse is not open for climbing, but has plenty of bike racks outside so you can still take photos of the structure.
4. Buxton Woods Coastal Reserve
Take a morning hike on this conserved island forest with trails
5. Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge
Educate yourself about conservation at the Refuge started in 1938 to provide nesting, resting and wintering habitats for migratory birds and protection for endangered and threatened species, like Loggerhead sea turtles.
When to Go
The only time I would recommend going is during the high season in the summer. The reason being: when I go to a beach, I want to be able to lay out on sunny beach with a warm breeze. When I wade into the water, I want it to be refreshing, not ice cold! We stayed for a week during early May and it was a little too cold for my comfort. I wrapped myself up in towels and had to wear pants and a sweatshirt most days, even when the sun was out! Although the lodging costs are the highest in the summer, and the wait times at restaurants a lot longer, the warmer weather is worth it to fully enjoy the pool, beach, and ocean. After all, you’re going to the Outer Banks to visit the beach, right? One thing to keep in mind is that hurricane season starts June 1st, but that doesn’t mean there’s no chance of a hurricane happening if you decide to visit in May.
If you’re still considering visiting during the shoulder season in the spring or fall to save some money on lodging and avoid the crowds, here are some things to consider. The spring season will still have frigid water temperatures, but mild air temperatures on land. However, in the spring, you’re more likely to encounter rain on your trip. In the fall, you’re still visiting during the hurricane season, and the air temperatures start dropping, but the water temperatures will remain lukewarm into early fall. Be aware that some restaurants will reduce hours or close down in the shoulder and off seasons.
Although the hotels will be cheapest during the off-season, the frigid water temperatures and closed down tourist attractions/restaurants may make you think twice.
Brynne
Hi, I’m Brynne. I’ve spent the past decade traveling, testing beauty and hair products, experimenting in the kitchen, trying fitness routines, drafting floor plans, rigorously researching health and wellness, and am continuing to learn how to live a clean and sustainable life filled with intention and purpose. I back my opinions with research and expert opinions to give you the tools to make the best decisions for yourself. I live in the DMV, specifically Northern Virginia, with my boyfriend, Sean and our Pitbull-Sharpei mix, Bentley. Looking to find out more? Comment on my posts or email me!
