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Welcome to the Outer Banks – Your Next Adventure Awaits!
Stretching over 200 miles off the coast of North Carolina, the Outer Banks (OBX) is the ultimate beach getaway filled with adventure, history, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re craving thrilling water sports, historical sites, or just a quiet beach day, OBX has something for everyone. Let’s dig in!
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Why the Outer Banks Should Be on Your Bucket List
The Outer Banks isn’t just another beach destination—it’s a playground of history, nature, and adventure. Imagine riding the wind on a hang glider at Jockey’s Ridge, exploring charming coastal villages, and spotting wild horses galloping along the beach.
With so many activities, it can be overwhelming to decide what to do. But don’t worry—I’ve got you covered with the best experiences, insider tips, and a few hidden gems to make your OBX trip unforgettable!
1. Hit the Beach: Where to Soak Up the Sun
OBX boasts some of the most stunning beaches on the East Coast. Whether you want energy-packed shorelines or quiet coastal escapes, there’s a perfect spot for you.
Best Public Beaches:
- Nags Head & Southern Shores – Great for families, with lifeguards and facilities.
- Hatteras Island – Offers a more laid-back, secluded vibe.
- Corolla Beach – Known for soft sand and driving access (no permit needed!). Corolla Light has many large family homes to rent and sports centeer
Pro Tip: Planning to drive on the beach? Check local permit rules before heading out!
Nag’s Head Pier
2. Wild Horses of Corolla: A Majestic Sight
The famous Corolla wild horses, descendants of Spanish Mustangs, roam freely along the northern beaches. Seeing them in their natural habitat is a breathtaking experience!
How to See Them:
- Take a guided wild horse tour for the best views.
- Drive your 4×4 along the beaches (stick to designated areas!). It’s free!
- Always stay at least 50 feet away and don’t attempt to feed them—these beauties are wild for a reason!
Pro Tip: Feeding or approaching the horses is illegal—help keep them wild and safe!
Wild Horses
3. Climb the Outer Banks Lighthouses
Lighthouses are a signature part of OBX history and offer incredible views from the top.
Must-Visit Lighthouses:
- Currituck Beach Lighthouse – Iconic red brick beauty in Corolla.
- Bodie Island Lighthouse – Classic black-and-white stripes.
- Cape Hatteras Lighthouse – The tallest brick lighthouse in the U.S.!
Pro Tip: Most lighthouses are open for climbing from April to October—check schedules in advance!
Ready to climb some stairs?
4. Walk the Duck Boardwalk & Enjoy Waterfront Dining
Duck, NC, is a charming coastal town known for its mile-long boardwalk along the Currituck Sound. It’s perfect for a scenic stroll, shopping, or grabbing a bite.
What to Do in Duck:
- Shop at Waterfront Shops or Scarborough Faire Shopping Center for unique souvenirs.
- Grab coffee and Duck Donuts—a must-try!
- Enjoy waterfront dining with fresh seafood at local favorites like The Blue Point.
Pro Tip: Visit at sunset for the best views and fewer crowds!
Waterfront Shops
5. Wright Brothers National Memorial: Birthplace of Flight
Did you know the first successful airplane flight happened right here in OBX? Visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kitty Hawk to stand where history was made.
What to Expect:
- See the original flight paths.
- Climb Kill Devil Hill for panoramic views.
- Take a self-guided driving tour of the area.
Pro Tip: Book tickets in advance to skip the line during peak season!
Wright Brothers National Memorial
6. Experience Jockey’s Ridge State Park: The Largest Sand Dunes in the East
Jockey’s Ridge State Park is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream! This natural wonder features the largest sand dunes on the East Coast and offers tons of fun activities.
Must-Try Activities:
- Fly a kite high above the dunes.
- Go sandboarding for an adrenaline rush.
- Try hang-gliding lessons with Kitty Hawk Kites!
Pro Tip: Bring plenty of water and do no go barefoot—the sand gets HOT in summer!
Jockey’s Ridge State Park
7. Take the Ferry to Ocracoke Island
Ocracoke Island is a must-visit, offering remote beaches, a quaint village, and rich pirate history (Blackbeard’s stomping grounds!).
How to Get There:
- Take the free ferry from Cape Hatteras (first-come, first-served!).
- Explore Ocracoke Village with its cozy shops and seafood joints.
- Visit the Ocracoke Lighthouse, one of the oldest in the U.S.
Pro Tip: In peak season, arrive early—wait times can be over an hour!
Ferry to Ocracoke Island
8. Drive the Outer Banks Scenic Byway
Want to soak in the best of OBX? Take a scenic drive along NC Highway 12, which runs the length of the Outer Banks.
Stops Along the Route:
- Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge – Perfect for birdwatching.
- Cape Hatteras National Seashore – Stunning ocean views. Currently under construction.
- Rodanthe Pier – A peaceful fishing spot.
Pro Tip: Pack snacks and take your time—this drive is about the journey!
Rodanthe Pier
Your OBX Adventure Starts Now!
From wild horses and historic lighthouses to breathtaking beaches and thrilling water sports, the Outer Banks is an adventure lover’s paradise. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a long vacation, OBX offers endless memories waiting to be made.
So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today and experience the magic of the Outer Banks! Have you been to OBX before? If not read another blog post on the area: Why Corolla Light is the Perfect Place to Unwind
Drop a comment below with your favorite spot!
Stay curious, stay hungry, and keep exploring!
