There are few destinations like the Outer Banks with an abundance of romantic locations and activities to deepen the connection between you and your special person. The laid-back vibe keeps you in the moment, allowing you to focus on what’s important and create lasting memories. While the list of romantic activities here could go on and on, we’ve put together 11 of our favorite things to do in the Outer Banks for couples!
1. Spend the Day and the Evening at the Beach
Take a blanket or rent some chairs and enjoy the sun and surf with your favorite person. The Outer Banks is right between the Atlantic Ocean and calm sounds and bays, so catching the perfect sunrise or sunset is easy. Jockey’s Ridge State Park is great for both. Before you leave, head to Vine and Board in Duck for wine, cheese, and gorgeous bites with charcuterie boards to go.
2. Soak up Some History
The Fort Raleigh National Historic Site in Manteo offers a visitor's center, interpretive programs, a bookstore, and a nature trail. While you’re there, don’t miss the gorgeous Elizabethan Gardens.
3. Go Horseback Riding on the Beach
What’s more romantic than riding horses on a beautiful beach and bonding as you enjoy the waves and amazing scenery? This activity definitely ranks as one of the best things to do in the Outer Banks for couples. Hatteras Island Horseback Riding offers beach riding in the Cape Hatteras National Seashore and Recreation Area.
4. Spend a Day in Historic Manteo
Enjoy a fantastic meal or coffee in beautiful Manteo, a great Outer Banks romantic getaway. Then stroll through the Downtown Market (in season), and the eclectic Phoenix Shops. In the evening, go back in time on the Historic Old Manteo Candlelight Walking Tour.
5. Watch a Performance of The Lost Colony
Enjoy The Lost Colony, an 86-year-old musical under the stars! You’ll be immersed in the story of the discovery of a new world with stunning choreography. (Just be sure to purchase tickets in advance.)
6. Bond Over Art
Shopping for and discussing art is a great way to get to know your date, so head out to the OBX art galleries and see what you have in common. The Glenn Eure’s Ghost Fleet Gallery in Nags Head features his amazing work in a variety of mediums. In Kill Devil Hills, there’s the KDH Cooperative, an artist-operated gallery with over 40 juried members. There’s also the Pea Island Art Gallery in Salvo, which is open Wednesday – Friday weekly.
7. Relax with Dinner and a Massage
At the Aqua Restaurant & Spa in Duck, you can enjoy one of the most popular things to do in the Outer Banks for couples. Enjoy a delicious meal and a wonderful spa treatment like a massage or facial. (Psst! This is a great Valentine’s Day gift. So be sure to book early.)
8. Rent E-Bikes in Kill Devil Hills
Take a guided tour with Outer Banks E-Bikes. It’s educational, and you can enjoy the exquisite beauty of the natural surroundings. With an E-bike, you can let it do most of the work, so you don’t tire out. If you’d prefer a quiet ride with your date, opt for a rental and pedal away, just the two of you.
9. Wine & Dine
Right across from the beach in Kitty Hawk, there’s the Ocean Boulevard Bistro, a local favorite for fine dining. They have an extensive wine list and a martini bar, and they often host live music. TRIO Restaurant & Market serves more than 100 wines by the glass in their upscale casual atmosphere. They also have a retail market so you can buy a quality bottle of wine to take back to your hotel. Visit here for more ideas on where to find fantastic wine in the OBX.
10. Take a Private Sunset Sailboat Cruise
Charter your own sailboat for a three-hour sunset sail on the Roanoke and Albemarle Sounds with Sail Outer Banks. Bring food and drinks to enjoy while your captain handles the rest. This is a wonderfully romantic activity any time and would make for an amazing Valentine’s Day in the Outer Banks. Be sure to book ahead!
11. Rent a Dune Buggy
Adventurous couples can bond over an adrenaline rush all while taking in some breathtaking scenery when you rent a dune buggy from Good Vibrations Beach Rides.
