Visit the Beautiful Outer Banks

History drips from the Outer Banks: Here, aviators Orville and Wilbur Wright took their famous first flight (at Kill Devil Hills), the pirate Blackbeard fought his last battle (at Ocracoke) and the mysterious Lost Colony disappeared (where is anyone’s guess). But this chain of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina – affectionately dubbed OBX – isn’t just for history buffs. Fishing, windsurfing and wildlife watching attract adventurous types, not to mention the 3,000 shipwrecks you can explore by scuba diving. Families gravitate toward the beaches, mini-golf courses and the North Carolina Aquarium at Roanoke Island.

Each island has its own charm: The old lighthouses, rugged dunes and secluded beaches in the south couple with vacation rentals, water sports and kitschy beach shops, such as the Stop-N-Shop Beach Shop, in the north, all to form a unique seaside destination. If you come to the Outer Banks expecting action, you’ll be disappointed. OBX is ideal for those looking to skip the overly touristy attractions and head straight for the unspoiled beaches. You won’t find big nightlife, but you will find an abundance of natural beauty. Beaches are more populated during the summer months, but with so many destinations spread out along the barrier islands, you likely won’t experience big crowds.  Vacation to the Outer Banks, continue reading our Outer Banks Travel Guide and plan your vacation here. For more beautiful East Coast Beaches, visit here.

Weather – When to Visit the Outer Banks

Most locals and out-of-towners arrive during the summer months when the temperatures are the warmest. But the best times to visit the Outer Banks are from March to May or September to November, when rates drop and crowds dissipate. Similar to other parts of the Southeast, the temperatures stay relatively warm and humid – with average highs hitting the upper 80s in the summer – until the winter months, when the weather dips into the 40s and 50s. Keep in mind that during the offseason some attractions, as well as restaurants and shops, may close or operate under more limited hours. 

What Should You Pack?

When figuring out what to pack for the beach, there are two tips to keep in mind. First, forgetting an item isn’t the end of the world. Unless you’re heading for a remote, deserted island, chances are you can find a store where you can pick up the extras. Second, don’t stress out over making a packing list when there’s a stress-free beach travel essentials list for you below:

• Sunglasses and hats offer much-needed sunscreen and flip flops are perfect for navigating hot, sandy beaches. Go pack them now so you’re not kicking yourself later.
• What about those little items that make beach visits so much more enjoyable? For a little extra comfort on your trip, make sure you pack: Lip balm, sunscreen, bug spray.
• Beach toys and goggles are a must for kids. Building sandcastles and viewing the underwater wonders are perennial favorites.
• Take a first-aid kit with you. Hopefully you’ll only have to worry about a few minor scrapes from seashells, but having your own kit handy is a good precaution.
• Beach Bag – Your beach bag will likely contain a few of the items mentioned above. For a well-rounded bag, consider tossing in sunscreen, lip balm, bug spray, first-aid kit and water-proof baggies.
• Beach Gear – No matter who’s supplying the gear, look to have the following items on hand: beach bag, beach chairs, beach towels, beach umbrella or tent, beach cart and a cooler.
• Remember: Don’t wait until you’re parched to drink. When you’re out in the heat and sun, it’s important to stay hydrated by drinking regularly. So take along a water bottle as well.

Best Outer Banks Area Beaches

Nags Head Beach

The beach stretches for 12 miles, making it easy to find your perfect spot of sand. Getting to the beach is easy, with over 30 access points. If you have small children or aren’t a strong swimmer, there are lifeguards are on duty in certain areas. One of the best things to do is to take a stroll out onto Jennette’s Pier. The pier stretches for 1,000 feet out into the Atlantic, and the view up and down the coast from the end is spectacular.

Kitty Hawk Beach

Access to this beach is on one of 12 boardwalks up and over the sand dunes. Each access point has parking; but parking fills up fast, so go early to secure a spot. The beach is wide and long with plenty of room for playing Frisbee, tossing footballs, or boogie boarding in the surf. The town of Kitty Hawk is a lively place full of restaurants, hotels, surf shops, mini golf courses, and grocery stores.

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Avon Beach

Avon Beach is a low-key beach and flies that most people don’t consider. It’s wide, long, and uncrowded, and is primarily used by families renting one of the numerous beach houses. You can set up close to the water or back by the dunes if the wind is blowing. Collect driftwood and enjoy a beach fire under the stars.

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Ocracoke Island

The island, part of the Cape Lookout National Seashore, has a 16-mile stretch of beach with no development on it except for a few national park campsites. It’s an excellent place to walk, run, swim, and surf. This beach is one of the best in the Outer Banks for shelling.

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Atlantic Beach

Atlantic Beach has a definite vacation vibe, with plenty of shops, restaurants, and a variety of accommodations. The Atlantic Beach Boardwalk is the heart of the beach action. Admission here is free, parking is plentiful, and there are restrooms and picnic facilities.

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Best Restaurants – Outer Banks

$-Inexpensive     $$-Moderate     $$$-Pricey     $$$$-Ultra High End

Barefoot Bernie’s $$ – $$$

The diverse menu blends together cuisines as varied as Asian and Caribbean, Mediterranean and down-home American with ease, using fresh ingredients with a unique touch. The amount of options and variation ensures every member of your family will leave satisfied. Telephone: 252-261-1008 Web: Barefoot Bernie’s

Art’s Place $

Art’s Place has been the Outer Banks’ biggest kept secret for thirty years serving the best burger on the beach. Not only are their burgers fantastic, they also make our own fresh hand cut fries. Weekly homemade meals made with love and care. Telephone: 252-261-3233 Web: Art’s Place

The Blue Point $$$$

At The Blue Point, their menus change seasonally but always lean toward local and sustainable seafood. From their famous crab cakes to fresh fish, beef or pork, pasta or gnocchi to their salads, small plates and desserts, their philosophy has remained the same – keep our dishes simple and consistent with strong roots in Southern cooking. Telephone: 252-261-8090 Web: The Blue Point

The Kill Devil Grill $$ – $$$

Here’s a reason to make a long weekend of it. Take Friday off and arrive at The Kill Devil Grill as close to the 11:30 a.m. opening time as possible. That way you won’t have the heartbreak of the Southern Fried Chicken “blue plate” special selling out before you get some. It’s half a chicken, crisp on the outside, moist on the inside and served with potato salad and pickled cukes for $9. Believe me, you’ll need to beat the locals. Telephone: 252-449-8181 Web: The Kill Devil Grill

Coastal Provisions Oyster Bar & Wine Café $$ – $$$

A gourmet market turned award-winning full service restaurant with one of the best selections of oysters on the East Coast, extensive wine selection, wine bar, oyster bar, take out and retail goods to go. Telephone: 252-480-0023 Web: Coastal Provisions Oyster Bar & Wine Cafe

Best Nightlife – Outer Banks

Off The Wall Tap House

Off the Wall Tap House has an innovative beer wall technology that allows you to personalize your experience and try over 20 craft beers. Taste test just an ounce, fill a pint, or choose anything in between. Not into beer? Have a drink from the wine and cocktail menu! Their food puts new spins on old favorites and introduces a few beachy originals. Get your seafood fix. Share nachos with friends. Enjoy a burger. Telephone: 252-489-5114 Web: Off The Wall Tap House

Pangea Tavern

This gastropub features an outdoor beer garden, delicious innovative food choices, and an extensive selection of local craft beers on tap make this a must-visit while you’re relaxing in The Outer Banks. Also, this place is just steps from the beach and with the largest selection of craft beers on tap on Hatteras Island. Pangea Tavern is a favorite of locals and visitors alike. Telephone: 252-995-3800 Web: Pangea Tavern

Basnight’s Lone Cedar Cafe

Considered one of the premier restaurants in the Outer Banks, Basnight’s also plays host to romantic, waterside nightlife. Guests can enjoy their favorite cocktail while gazing at the Roanoke Sound from anywhere in the restaurant, including the bar. Telephone: 252-441-4505 Web: Basnight’s Lone Cedar Cafe

Lucky 12 Tavern

With its selection of old-school pinball machines, vintage billiard tables, and plenty of flat-screen TV’s, this beach bar attracts a diverse customer base. Young and old, locals and vacationers, bikers and surfers all flock to the fun-filled atmosphere of Lucky 12 for lunch, dinner and fun. Once there, they can enjoy a great selection of beers on tap and a kitchen that stays open late. DJ’s also frequent the tavern. Telephone: 252-255-5825 Web: Lucky 12 Tavern

Mama Kwan’s Tiki Bar & Grill

By day, Mama Kwan’s is one of the top lunch and dinner spots on the Outer Banks – thanks in part to its famous fish taco. By night, the zesty island flare and modest prices attract customers for festive nightlife. Mama Kwan’s draws a healthy crowd of college students, locals, and late-nighters who gather not only for the cheap food and drink, but also for frequent live music during the summer. This beach bar often hosts rock and reggae bands. Telephone: 252-441-7889 Web: Mama Kwan’s Tiki Bar & Grill

Best Outer Banks Hotels