The Outer Banks Promise

The Outer Banks is an amazing natural wonder that has been the source of historic achievements and supported a special way of life for generations. Let’s keep it that way and do our part. Look out for one another, be aware and prepared for any situation and work together to protect this place that we love. So let’s promise to:

1. Discover this land of history and inspiration with a spirit of kindness and appreciation.
2. Turn “what ifs” into “let’s prepare.”
3. Pack it in, pack it out. Leave no trace.
4. Wander with wonder, sticking to roads and paths.
5. Love the beach, respect the ocean.
6. Be a wildlife star, observing animals safely from afar.
7. Support local. Small acts have big impacts.

En Español

Tag us in your social posts by using #OBXpromise.

Download our 'I Promise To' sign to fill in your own promise and share it with #OBXpromise.

How Local Businesses Can Show Support

As we continue to share The Outer Banks Promise within the community, we encourage your business or organization to make a promise to protect this place for future generations. Several local companies have stepped forward to do so, including Outer Banks Blue, Outer Banks Health, Association Consultants, Hilton Garden Inn Outer Banks/Kitty Hawk and Ramada Plaza, and we encourage you to take this next step as well. For more information on how your business can participate, please view our Partner Toolkit and contact Jeff Schwartzenberg, Community Engagement Manager, at community@outerbanks.org.

About The Outer Banks Promise

As outlined in the Outer Banks Long-Range Tourism Management Plan (LRTMP), one of the strategic recommendations was to develop a destination pledge to communicate the important values of responsible behavior on the Outer Banks. At its meeting on April 18, 2024, the Dare County Tourism Board approved the LRTMP Special Committee's draft of The Outer Banks Promise.

Aimed at fostering responsible tourism, preserving the natural environment and cultural heritage of the Outer Banks and enhancing 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.

What is a Destination Pledge?
A destination pledge encourages visitors and residents to commit to responsible behaviors when spending time in a particular area.

What are Destination Pledges Trying to Accomplish?

• Engage emotions to inspire people to care about the destination
• ​Require people to take action rather than passively reading a list of guidelines
• ​Make their promises public by signing the pledge and submitting