Things to Do on the Outer Banks
The Outer Banks, aka OBX, has a long-standing and well-earned reputation for not letting anything get the best of it. The long thin ribbon of sand that makes up these barrier islands may change shape over time, but the resilient soul of the place remains. The expansive, natural beaches and wide-open parks of the Outer Banks feel exotic, but you don't have to take an airplane or cruise to get here, just hop in the car!
The OBX is even better with friends and family, just be mindful that these days other visiting folks might give you a little more space and expect the same courtesy in return. With so many miles of beach and so many things to do on the Outer Banks, you'll find it's easy to claim your own territory for one-of-a-kind experiences.
We've gathered some Trip Ideas to help plan your vacation. Do you consider yourself an adventure junkie, history buff, nature enthusiast? Find your way to your favorite Outer Banks activities by air, on land, or cruising the waters. And don't forget to check out a new MUST-SEE in America, the spectacular Basnight Bridge, towering over Oregon Inlet and connecting visitors to Hatteras Island by way of the iconic NC-12 highway.
While summer is a favorite for many, don't sell fall, winter, or spring short. Each season holds its own treasure. We've created an OBX Daydream video series to give you a glimpse of the activities available throughout the year or check out our blog that features "13 Best Outdoor Things To Do in the Outer Banks."
Top 10 Things To Do
You've explored the top 10 things to do in the Outer Banks, but the journey has just begun. Check out upcoming events,...
Read MoreAttractions
Whether you are a history buff, outdoor adventurer or admirer of architecture, take the time to rediscover our nation’s...
Read MoreLighthouses
For more than two centuries, lighthouses have guarded the Outer Banks coast and always guided the way. Generations of...
Read MoreMuseums & Historic Sites
Do a little searching about the OBX, and you will quickly pick up on its reputation of having been the first place in history...
Read MoreWater Activities
The Outer Banks owe their existence to the elements. The same core ingredients at the heart of your perfect beach daydream...
Read MoreLand Activities
Local painters, sculptors, print makers, jewelers, craftsmen, decoy carvers and photographers exhibit their talents at one of...
Read MoreAir Activities
Riding the wind, soaring high above the clouds like a bird has been a dream of mankind since people could put their dreams on...
Read MoreTours And Lessons
Don't just take our word for it, see for yourself the beauty of the Outer Banks. This as we call "America's...
Read MoreSpas & Wellness
For some, the feeling of sand between their toes takes them to a dreamy world of relaxation. If being at the beach isn't...
Read MoreTop Things To Do With Kids
Consistently ranked one of the best family beach vacations there is something for everyone of any age. Family-friendly...
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Your Guide to Recreating...
Our national parks protect much of what we love most about being here. The diverse stories our parks preserve...
The Best Family-Friendly Eats on...
The Outer Banks - or OBX as it is affectionately known - offers a unique combination of mind-expanding...
Learning to Hang Glide: Following...
Strapped into my harness, carabiner clipped to the frame; I lay down in the flying position. I’m ready...
5 Ways to Make Your Family Trip to...
The Outer Banks of North Carolina knows how to make a first impression. Centuries ago, this is where English...
5 Types of OBX Sea Turtles
The Network for Endangered Sea Turtles, or N.E.S.T., was founded in 1995 by Millie Overman. It is an...
Catch, Clean and Cook the Freshest...
As one of the premiere coastal destinations in the United States, the Outer Banks attract tourists from all...
7 Great Spots to Bring Mom on the...
Mother’s Day only comes once a year, but you don’t have to wait till then to do something nice...
The Best Eats of Manteo and Roanoke...
One of the oldest towns in North Carolina, Manteo is the quaint and charming “capital” of...
7 Leave No Trace Principles of the...
As visitation increases, so does the impact of foot, boat, and vehicle traffic on the OBX. Our coast's...
Fun & Tasty Things to Do in the...
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