Responsible Travel on the OBX
The Outer Banks of North Carolina is a different kind of place in part because of its unique ties to nature. Two ocean currents converging, dynamic barrier islands dancing with the waves of the Atlantic. Did you know half of Dare County is water? Or that around 80% of the land within the County cannot be developed because it belongs to a National or State park, preserve or wildlife refuge? Even with these assurances, we're working hard to ensure the Outer Banks remains a place dedicated to sustainable tourism and natural oceanside beauty.
Small but mighty actions make all the difference as we all work together to protect our natural wonders and vibrant cultures for future generations to come. Every person who visits the Outer Banks leaves an impact on this tiny sandbar. Take a look at these awesome resources to ensure you're prepared to visit the OBX thoughtfully. If you are ready to be more involved, visitors can check out our Voluntourism opportunities to volunteer their time with a local non-profit such as beach clean ups or planting sea grass. Find a full list of Dare County non-profits and events that are helping to Keep OBX OBX.
Are you a responsible traveler?
Traveling responsibly means planning, learning, and slowing down to appreciate all that surrounds you. Before traveling, ask yourself the following questions:
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Am I familiar with Leave No Trace principles? Packing out your trash, extinguishing fires completely, and traveling on designated routes and trails are a few of the principles to follow. Reduce your plastic usage by bringing a reusable water bottle and filling it at safe water sources
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Does this activity put me at risk for potential rescue or does it strain local resources? Beach safety and weather alerts can save lives. Be prepared with updated forecasts and the proper beach safety knowledge. Text OBXBEACHCONDITIONS to 77295 to sign up for beach-related weather and ocean condition alerts.
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Am I doing what I can to avoid crowded locations? View our tips for getting here and around to avoid long waits or being stuck in traffic.
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Are there ways I can make a positive impact on the communities I plan to visit? Let our culture and our locals become part of your journey by connecting with the people you meet along the way. Participate in community events and activities, ask locals about their favorite trails or places to visit, and even favorite dining spots. Be kind to frontline workers who are there to serve and help enhance your experience. A smile goes a long way.
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Voluntourism is a way for travelers to give their time supporting local non-profit organizations in our region on environmental stewardship or other impactful community projects. You can become a destination steward during your visit by participating in or donating to a local conservation or outdoor stewardship organization.
Below we've answered some important FAQ that impact travelers and locals on the Outer Banks.
What are the 7 Leave No Trace Principles
Our coast's public lands are a great resource for hiking, wildlife viewing, fishing, relaxing and so much more. Because of this, we want to ensure that our land and natural resources are protected and we encourage our visitors and locals to practice leaving no trace. These principles remind us to be conscious of the effects on our actions on the environment and can be applied anywhere, at anytime, not just the Outer Banks of North Carolina.
- Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
- Dispose of Waste Properly
- Leave What You Find
- Minimize Campfire Impacts
- Respect the Wildlife
- Be Considerate of Other Visitors
© Leave No Trace: www.LNT.org
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How to pack for the beach
We’ve gathered your essential beach packing items into one convenient spot so you don’t forget anything. Whether you are staying for a quick overnighter or a weeklong stay, traveling solo or with a group, this beach packing list will set you up for a successful trip.
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How to "beach" safely
A trip to the Outer Banks' beautiful beaches is an enjoyable and memorable experience for many visitors and families. Whether you’re going swimming, sailing or surfing, taking strolls in the sand or laying out to catch some sun, or participating in any of the many other activities at our coastal attractions, we want your time at the beach to be as safe as it is fun.
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Is the OBX accessible?
How to travel with dogs
The Outer Banks will always be a pet-friendly destination. Our beaches, towns and villages can be fun and rewarding for both pets and their owners, discover all rules and regulations regarding pets on the OBX.
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How to off-road responsibly
The use of off-road vehicles (ORVs) is a long-standing way for visitors to enjoy the Seashore’s ocean beaches and soundside waters. To provide for both visitor enjoyment and the protection of park resources, please observe the following regulations and recommendations when using ORVs at the Seashore
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How to visit our parks and refuges
Read these insights on how to best travel through our National Parks, State Parks and refuges.
Where are electric vehicle charging stations on the Outer Banks?
You can find a full list of charging stations at https://pluginnc.com/find-a-charging-station/
How to build a beach fire
Sitting around a fire on the beach can be romantic and relaxing. Beach fires are allowed, with regulations, on beaches in Nags Head and along the Cape Hatteras National Seashore.
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Cultivate Diverse Visitation & Equitable Representation
The Outer Banks Visitors Bureau recognizes the power of travel as an opportunity to build inclusive communities here on the Outer Banks and beyond by the exchange of culture and commerce through visitation. The Outer Banks Visitors Bureau is committed to promoting tourism to Dare County in a fair and equitable way, reflective of the organization's own employment opportunities, that invites visitation to the Outer Banks by all, with the intention of connecting with people inclusive and without exclusion of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. Read a few recent posts below:
5 Ways the OBX Celebrates Diversity
Where and when do I dispose of my trash or recycle while I'm visiting the Outer Banks?
Find a full list of trash pickup schedules and recycling centers on the entire Outer Banks.
Read MoreSea Turtles
What to do if you find a baby sea turtle on the beach?
Whether it’s sick, injured, or nesting, it’s important not to touch or disturb the turtle. Sea turtles do not come onto the beach unless they are nesting or something is wrong. Please just give N.E.S.T. (Network for Endangered Sea Turtles) a call so they can have a team come immediately to assist the turtle. Their hotline number is 252-441-8622.
Read MoreMake the Outer Banks Promise
Aimed at fostering responsible behavior, preserving the natural environment and cultural heritage of the area and enhancing stewardship and safety, The Outer Banks Promise is a voluntary commitment that encourages residents and visitors to do their part to protect this area for future generations. We invite you to make your Promise today!
The Outer Banks Promise
Outdoor NC Partnership
The Outer Banks Visitors Bureau is a proud Guardian-level partner of the Outdoor NC Alliance and we’re thrilled to share our commitment to stewardship of our shared outdoor spaces with you. We have joined the Outdoor NC movement to preserve and protect our cherished outdoor spaces for future generations to enjoy. Our goal is to actively promote stewardship and responsible recreation in the outdoors, which will ensure our state is the world-class destination we know and love, forever.