Spring break on the Outer Banks…what could be better? There’s no doubt that everyone is ready for the warmth and brightness of spring and with spring break around the corner, now is the time to start planning your trip! With the average temperature on the Outer Banks ranging from 65º during the day and around 50º at night during March and April, you can get out and explore all the OBX has to offer! Plus, fewer crowds will make your visit so much more enjoyable. If you’re planning a spring break trip to the Outer Banks, Resort Realty has you covered. With a full list of things to do, places to see, amazing food to eat, and more; see what you should be doing this spring break on the OBX.
Did we mention how gorgeous the weather is during the spring on the OBX? The mild temperatures make spring break the perfect time to get outside. Take some time to stroll the open and crowd-free beaches from Corolla to Hatteras Island. The hot summer months can be a little too intense for activities like climbing Jockey’s Ridge, but spring break weather gives you the opportunity to tackle the dunes without breaking a sweat! Don’t want to get too active? No worries. Even a drive on the 4 x 4 beaches in Corolla or on Hatteras Island during your spring break will be a blast. You may even get to see some wild horses during your cruise too!
The Outer Banks is full of so many unique makers, stores, and shops. Take advantage of the great weather and stroll some of the outdoor shopping centers like the Outer Banks Mall and The Waterfront Shops in Duck! Check out local artisans and makers like Swell Ceramics located in Nags Head. This is a great opportunity to treat yourself or even get a huge jump start on your Christmas shopping for some truly unique gifts!
If you ask any local on the Outer Banks, they’ll tell you that the best part of spring is that local favorite restaurants open back up for the warm weather seasons! Plus, with different kinds of seafood like fish, crab, and shrimp being in season during the spring, you’ll be able to enjoy something tasty and fresh that was caught locally. Many new Outer Banks restaurants tend to pop up and open during the spring season too; even more of a reason to plan an Outer Banks spring break getaway this year.
Remember that great weather we were talking about? It’s not just for the adventurous type that’s a part of your spring break crew. OBX spring weather gives you the opportunity to explore and learn about the history of this amazing little sandbar. You’ll get the opportunity to visit places like the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, the North Carolina Aquarium, and more without dying of heat stroke or freezing to death. A lot of educational centers like the aforementioned plus Roanoke Island Festival Park have outdoor exhibits that open back up when the warm, spring weather approaches.
The Lost Colony is one of America’s longest unsolved mysteries with 115 men, women, and children vanishing with no trace. On your visit this spring break, learn more about the mystery of the Lost Colony at Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, and Ghost tours! For more information on special events, visit the Lost Colony website.
Planning your spring break getaway to the Outer Banks can be super exciting. Even more exciting? Lower rates on rental homes! Before the peak season starts, even the most luxurious homes can be super affordable for your stay. Plus, you can usually catch your favorite rental home on a discounted special, saving you even more money for your Outer Banks spring break adventures.
Whether you’re looking for a condo for a weekend retreat or a large and luxe home for a whole week spent relaxing on the beach, Resort Realty has you covered! With over 600 homes to choose from and so many great activities to take part in, why wouldn’t you plan your spring break on the Outer Banks? View all of the homes Resort Realty has to offer and either book online or give us a call at (800) 458-3830 to talk to one of our amazing vacation specialists!
If you are a first time visitor to the Outer Banks, planning the perfect vacation can be a little overwhelming. With so much to see and do but such little time, it can be a lot especially if you’ve never visited the Outer Banks before! Lucky for you, we’ve come up with a list of places to go, things to see, and more to help you out on your first visit to the Outer Banks!
The Outer Banks is full of places to explore and enjoy the beauty and simplicity of small town life. Downtown Manteo features a ton of local shops and restaurants that you must visit. Plus, Roanoke Island Festival Park is just a short walk over the bridge. You can see what life was like for English soldiers in 1585 and even tour a real, working representation ship, The Elizabeth II! The Duck Waterfront Shops features a bunch of great local shops and an amazing view of the sound! If you’re in Corolla, historic Corolla Village is a must visit as well. On a nice, breezy, spring or summer day, getting outside and taking a stroll around these Outer Banks gems with your family is priceless!
From the Wright Brothers National Monument to Jockey’s Ridge, the Outer Banks is full of rich history that is all tied together. The Elizabethan Gardens in Manteo and Fort Raleigh National Historic Site are the perfect places to go if you’re interested in learning more about the Lost Colony and see gorgeous array of flowers. The Currituck Beach, Bodie Island, and Cape Hatteras lighthouses are must-sees as well!
Whether you have your own 4 wheel drive vehicle or need to rent one, you have to go to Carova or Cape Hatteras for a first time off-road beach experience! Carova and Hatteras Island both feature pristine, undeveloped beaches that are sure to please the first time Outer Banker.While 4WD beaches in Corolla and Carova don’t require a permit, the Cape Hatteras National seashore does. You can find more info here on how to obtain a permit. If 4WD isn’t your style, take a horseback ride with Equine Adventures and see the beauty that Hatteras Island has to offer!
If you’re looking to find the best local food, look no further! Outer Banks Voice has a great Best of the Beach guide for the best seafood, breakfast, donuts and more, making it easy for you to find the best local eats on the beach! Duck Donuts, Run Down Cafe, and Hurricane Mo’s are just a few great places that made the list so be sure to check them all out!
When visiting the Outer Banks, staying in a vacation rental home is your best option. It’ll save you money, keep you comfortable, and give you a space to bond and relax with family and friends. At Resort Realty, we have the perfect home for you no matter what your needs. From luxury homes to cozy condos, make your first and future Outer Banks vacations special and rent with Resort Realty! Browse over 500 Outer Banks vacation homes online or talk to one of our amazing vacation specialists at (800) 458 – 3830.
March came in like a lion…and is going out like a lion! With all the Nor’Easters we’ve had, we’re ready for the warmth and sunshine that April is sure to bring! Along with great weather on the OBX, April brings great events too. Check out the best Outer Banks events and what’s going on throughout April right here!
10 AM – 5 PM @ The Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum
Learn about German U-Boats off the North Carolina Coast, different shipwrecks, diving experiences, underwater photography, and more! Professional divers and underwater archaeologists will educate you at this free and informative symposium! For more info call 252-986-0720, email mary.riddle@ncdr.gov, or visit the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum website.
Recurring Daily
Calling all runners! This famous OBX race is perfect for you! The First Flight 5K and Flying Pirate Half Marathon is a great event for all to participate and attend. The First Flight 5K takes place on April 14th at the Wright Brothers Memorial at 7:30 AM. The Flying Pirate Half Marathon starts at 7 AM on April 15th at 5300 Woods Road and ends at the end of Nags Head woods! For more information and registration, visit the OBX Sporting Events Website.
Recurring Daily
The biggest windsurfing event in America is held right here on the OBX! Enjoy watching or taking part in windsurfing competitions and clinics all around Hatteras Island! From long distance to freestyle, there is an event for everyone. Participation prizes will be awarded as well! For more information and updates, visit the OBX Wind website!
Recurring Daily
Bikers and bike enthusiasts, this is the week for you to come visit the Outer Banks! With different events all over the OBX, there’s so much for you to do! Over 100 vendors, live music, pig pickins, and more are all happening during this exciting week! For more information, visit the Outer Banks Harley Davidson website.
1050 Irvin Garrish Highway, Ocracoke NC
Explore Ocracoke and run for a good cause! Participants can choose between a 5K, 10K, and Fun Run that occur on Saturday, April 28th and half marathon that takes place that Sunday. All finishers will receive a medal and runners in the 5K and 10K will receive a t-shirt. Join in on the 2nd Annual Lt. Maynard’s (famous for his defeat of Black Beard 300 years ago) Challenge and run on both days! All proceeds benefit Ocracoke Community Radio, Ocracoke School Athletic Boosters Club, and the Ocracoke Community Park. For more information, visit the Run Ocracoke website.
Spending a ton of money on your vacation to the Outer Banks should be the last thing on your mind! You can easily have a great vacation and create amazing memories without breaking the bank. Check out our top tips on how to have an amazing vacation on the OBX while on a budget!
From strolls on Jennette’s Pier to going ghost crabbing at night, there are so many free OBX activities to do on your vacation!
There are so many great Outer Banks activities that are either free or super inexpensive! You can explore Jockey’s Ridge, spend all day on the beach, visit lighthouses, and so much more without spending a ton of money. Check out our “Explore The Outer Banks On A Budget” blog for even more ideas on how to have fun without going broke!
A home made seafood roast with local OBX seafood? Yes please!
With so many great restaurants on the Outer Banks, it’s hard to not want to try them all! While dining out can be a great and tasty experience, it can be costly. The average entree on the Outer Banks will run you around $12-$15 depending on what restaurant you go to. When you’re going out to eat with your family, that can really add up. Instead of dining out every night, maybe pick a night to go out and prepare meals at your rental homes the rest of the time! You can get fresh, local seafood from many places on the Outer Banks and prepare it yourself or even cook your own catch if you’re into fishing!
With a visit in the off season, you’ll find uncrowded beaches and money saved!
During the peak vacation months of June to August, vacation homes and accommodations can be at their most expensive. If you can be flexible with your vacation schedule, visiting the Outer Banks in the off season can end up being much cheaper. Many locals will say that visiting the Outer Banks in the fall and spring seasons are the best time to come because there is less traffic, less crowds, and beautiful weather! See “Why We Love Fall On The Outer Banks” and plan an off season vacation to get the best bang for your buck!
Vacation homes like Beacham Cottage #7810 are perfect for an affordable weekend getaway to the OBX!
Sometimes a weekend getaway is just what you need! Mini vacations are great alternatives to staying a whole week. The rates can be cheaper, you’ll save money, and you’ll still get to explore the Outer Banks! Resort Realty has many homes that offer weekend and short stays! See all the homes that offer partial vacations!
Budget for fun OBX activities like a trip to the H2OBX water park!
It’s okay to splurge, you’re on vacation after all! Sit down with your family and make a list of things that you want to do on the Outer Banks. Determine how much money you want to stick to spending and then divvy out a set amount to specific activities like dining, souvenirs, and attractions. Stick to this budget all week long and this way you can still do the activities you want to do and have control of your money!
Sea Cabin #7590 is an oceanfront OBX rental that can rent for as little as $695 per week!
Many Outer Banks vacation homes can be super lavish and luxurious but super expensive. You shouldn’t have to compromise comfort and style on your vacation. There are many homes in the Resort Realty family that are inexpensive, beautifully decorated, and comfortable that you and your family can rent without breaking your budget!
Home of the free because of the brave, to honor your service, Resort Realty offers a Hometown Hero vacation discount to save you money on your Outer Banks vacation || Image via Pinterest
Resort Realty has many deals and specials to help you save money on your Outer Banks vacation! Our Hometown Heroes discount is offered all year long on select properties and specials like our President’s Day sale and our Summer Kickoff Sale will save you money for a limited time! Plus, select homes will often put certain weeks on special! Check out our Deals and Specials page to get the perfect OBX vacation rental at a lower price.
Luxury vacation homes can be super expensive, but if you have a great group of people to split it with, it can be super affordable! A luxury home split between a group of people can be as low as $53 per night per person! See all of the luxury homes Resort Realty has to offer you, find a great group to vacation with, and start your affordable, luxury vacation!
Everyone needs a vacation, now more than ever! If you’re planning an OBX vacation but want to save some cash, have no fear, Resort Realty has you covered. Since 1987, we’ve learned a thing or two because we’ve seen a thing or two. We’ve got a few tips on how to snag the perfect, affordable, OBX vacation.
We say it all the time but we mean it! By planning your Outer Banks vacation early, you have more time to budget and you’ll get first dibs on the house of your choice. Our biggest booking days fall in December and January. Planning earlier for the vacation year ahead allows you flexibility financially, time-wise, and preference-wise.
Shoulder seasons are the fall and spring months on the Outer Banks. Summer has either passed or is upon us, the weather is great, but not everyone is flocking to our beaches all at once quite yet. Shoulder season vacations come with significantly lower rates than peak season. An example? A 5 bedroom, 5.5 bathroom oceanfront Signature Series home in Salvo will run you around $3,100 for a week in mid-May. That same house goes up to almost $11,000 for the week in July! You can easily save more than half the price by taking an OBX vacation in the spring or fall months.
Resort Realty is proud to offer payment options like PayPal and Venmo! With PayPal and Venmo wallets, not only does it make check-out easier, but it also allows you to easily request payment from other families you’re vacationing with, allowing you to split the cost of rent and making your vacation affordable. You can learn more about our Outer Banks vacation payment plans here.
This one goes hand in hand with the above. Here’s another example for you. During peak season, one of our most high-end, oceanfront Signature Series homes with a private pool can be around $21,000 which can cause some sticker shock. But let’s look at it in a different light. This house sleeps 12 people comfortably. When you divide that fee among 12 people, it comes out to around $1,700 per person. Broken down further? $252 per night per person. Again, this is for one of our standout properties. Many of our properties end up being around $71 per night per person when broken up by occupancy! Seems like an affordable vacation option when you look at it that way, right?
While there are some seriously awesome hotels on the Outer Banks, they’re not typically the best option for an affordable vacation. For an oceanfront hotel room with a king bed during July, you’d be paying about $2,300 for the week. While that sounds like similar, cheaper pricing compared to our rentals, you don’t get all the same amenities we offer. When you rent an Outer Banks vacation home, you have access to an entire house or condo, allowing you to host at least 2 people. You’ll have access to a kitchen where you can easily prepare meals for the entire crew. You’ll also be able to relax in a living room or rec room without feeling confined to one space. Hotels can be great, don’t get us wrong…but sometimes a rental home is the best option, financially and comfort-wise.
A mini-vacation is also a great option to save on your stay! Taking a 3-night trip to the OBX is sometimes all the time you need, especially when you live within an easy drive of the Outer Banks. Mini-vacations or partial week stays allow you the flexibility of checking in on a day that works best for you and not having to commit to an entire week. Partial week stays require a 3-night minimum. Find homes that offer partial stays here.
Hatteras is a unique island that is part of the Outer Banks. Full of history, beauty, and local culture, Hatteras is an exceptional gem that you’ll definitely want to visit. Check out our Top 10 Things To Do in Hatteras guide and start planning your Hatteras getaway today!
1 – Lighthouse Climbs
Cape Hatteras is home to two different lighthouses; the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse and the Bodie Island Lighthouse. The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse boasts 257 steps while the Bodie Island Lighthouse has just over 200. The climb isn’t for those who have heart, respiratory, or other medical conditions but climbing is up to your discretion. The view from the ground is as stunning as the view from the top of the lighthouses so even if you’re unable to climb, you still won’t miss out!
2 – Visit Avon Pier
Enjoy a morning sunrise or spend the day fishing away at Avon Fishing Pier. First opened in 1963, Avon Pier is home to many famous catches and the giant Red Drum that like to swim around the pier. A fishing license is not required to fish on Avon Pier and if you don’t have the right gear, the Pier House has you covered.
3 – Ferry Ride
Hatteras is home to the Hatteras/Ocracoke Ferry. Plan a trip down to Ocracoke and hop off the Ferry. The ferry ride is only about 40-45 minutes long. The Ferry can transport your car, bike, or even you just on foot! Take a ride across the Pamlico Sound to Ocracoke for a day you’ll never forget.
4 – Visit Frisco Native American Museum
The Frisco Native American Museum is a treasure on Hatteras Island. The Native American Museum showcases historical artifacts like drums, weapons, clothing and more from different local Native American tribes. There are also nature trails that wind through several acres of Hatteras forest. Along the trail, you can also dig for fossils in the fossil pile. Fun and education meet at this little museum!
5 – REAL Watersports
REAL Watersports offers a place to shop for surf, skim, skate, and kiteboarding gear. Cape Hatteras is recognized as the best place to kiteboard in the world and is one of the top surfing destinations on the East Coast. If you’re in town on July 21st, REAL hosts Roxy Beach day; a day full of surfing, beach yoga, kiteboarding, and more (and it’s all free!) REAL Watersports also offers kiteboarding, surfing, and stand-up paddle boarding lessons. Try a new sport and who knows, you might be the next professional surfer or kiteboarder!
6 – Chicamacomico Life Saving Station
Chica-what?! Chicamacomico Lifesaving Station (pronounced CHICK-a-mah-COM-ick-o) was one of seven lifesaving stations commissioned in 1871. Learn about the history of Live Saving Stations in North Carolina and how they helped contribute to what the United States Coast Guard is today.
7 – Pea Island Art Gallery
View artwork from over 100 local and regional artists at the Pea Island Art Gallery. With pieces like pottery, glass, jewelry, wood, sculpture, and more there’s something for everyone to look at. If you really fall in love with a certain piece of art, you can buy it to bring home with you!
8 – Tour by Air
A unique way to experience Hatteras Island is by viewing it by air! Burrus Flying Service has three different tours you can choose from. The South Tour will fly you over Hatteras inlet and move toward Ocracoke. The Cape Tour takes you over the Pamlico Sound and the Canadian Hole where you can get a sky view of windsurfers. The North Tour takes you over the sound towards Waves and Salvo where you can see different shipwrecks from a bird’s eye view!
9 – Eat Locally
Hatteras Island is known for being a fishing community, like many other towns on the Outer Banks. With fishing communities comes the freshest seafood you will ever find and let us tell you, there’s nothing like it. Hatteras restaurants like Café Pamlico feature dishes made from seafood right from the waters of Hatteras and all over the Outer Banks.
10 – Beach It
No commercialization means a lot more room and a greater connection to nature and the beauty of the beach. Unlike other Outer Banks beaches, the Hatteras seashore has no other buildings or homes right on top of the beach. Hatteras beaches are pet-friendly and 4-wheel drive capable (with a permit). Spend a beach day in the ocean or relaxing in the sand. Either way, you can’t go wrong!
With all of these activities to do and more, why not plan your next vacation on Hatteras Island? Resort Realty offers many different vacation homes in Hatteras that will suit your every need. Check them out and book your next Outer Banks vacation in Hatteras with us today!
Bodie Island Lighthouse
Chicamacomico Lifesaving Station
Cape Hatteras Beach
Winter on the Outer Banks is something magical. Time seems to slow down but there’s beauty in the stillness. Most local restaurants shut down in the colder months so employees and owners alike can get some much needed rest and relaxation until the warmer, busier season kicks up again. However, when holidays like Valentine’s Day rolls around, it makes it hard to find a restaurant that’s actually open. Luckily, a few Outer Banks eateries do stay open all year-round and some even open back up for you to spend Valentine’s Day with your loved one. Check out some of our favorite spots for your Outer Banks Valentine’s Day dinner.
Nags Head
Enjoy fresh, local seafood at Basnight’s Lone Cedar Cafe. Lone Cedar takes pride in serving some of the freshest seafood and home grown herbs and greens right here on the Outer Banks. They even give you the option to bring in your own, cleaned catch of the day and they’ll prepare it for you however you like! Lone Cedar does not accept reservations so make sure you arrive at 4:30 when dinner starts to get a table and enjoy an out of this world meal with your significant other. Visit Lone Cedars’ website for more information and menu options.
Nags Head
Small, cozy, and quirky, Blue Moon Beach Grill is a local restaurant you don’t want to miss out on this Valentine’s Day. With their specialty being in Southern comfort food (like their famous shrimp and grits) expect nothing less than being treated like family. Blue Moon offers an exceptional dining experience at an affordable price. Blue Moon is open all year-round from 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM. Make sure you get there early to beat the dinner rush; Blue Moon does not accept reservations. Check out Blue Moon’s website for more information and take a peek at their menu.
Kitty Hawk
For a lighter fare and live entertainment, visit TRiO Bar and Bistro. TRiO hosts an immense selection of wine, beer, and cheese for you and your love to sample and a bistro menu of gourmet sandwiches, salads, desserts, and more. Visit TRiO’s website for more information on the eatery and to plan the perfect night out with your love.
Kill Devil Hills, Colington Harbor
This cottage style restaurant serves the perfect intimate background for you and your sweetheart. The Salt Box Cafe focuses on locally farmed ingredients, seafood, meat, and vegetables to give you the dining experience you’ve only dreamed of. With options available like maple glazed duck breast and grilled local cobia, you and your love will have the best Valentine’s Day yet. Dinner is 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Salt Box Cafe does recommend making a reservation. Call 252-255-5594 to make your reservation. In the meantime, visit the Salt Box Cafe website to see everything they have to offer.
Duck
This Valentine’s Day, take a trip to Aqua and enjoy waterfront dining that’s sure to make sparks fly with your honey. Aqua offers locally farmed ingredients, fish, and meat to ensure a truly local dining experience. Different selections of beer and wine are available to pair with your meal and live music is played while you dine. You’ll find options like Cornish game hen, seafood pasta, and much more on their menu. After dinner, treat your sweetheart to something sweet off of Aqua’s extensive dessert menu. Reservations can be made over the phone by calling 252-261-9700 or online reservations are available on Aqua’s website.
Buxton
If casual fine dining is what you and your beloved are looking for this Valentine’s Day, look no further than Cafe Pamlico. With fresh local seafood coming from Buxton’s waters, the restaurant garden, Hatteras island or the Tidewater Region, you’ll be no less than impressed with whatever you order. Cafe Pamlico also offers a variety of vegan, vegetarian, and dietary needs options as well. Cafe Pamlico recommends making a reservation. You can call 252-995-4500 or the front desk at 866-PAMLICO (726-5426) for questions and reservations as well. Check out Cafe Pamlico’s website in the meantime to see all they have to offer.
Manteo
This 3 floor restaurant will offer couples breathtaking views over the Albemarle Sound and appetizing dinner options that will make your Valentine’s Day sizzle. Striper’s Bar and Grille serves local seafood along with freshly made in house sides and dressings to complete your meal. Enjoy a romantic sunset over the sound as you dine with your loved one. Striper’s also offers catch and cook. You can bring in your own fresh caught and cleaned fish and Striper’s chefs will prepare it to your liking! Striper’s does accept reservations at 252-475-1021 or at 252-475-1022. Visit their website to view even more of their menu
Make your Outer Banks Valentine’s Day dinner special this year with one of these great, local restaurants. Whether you’re visiting or you live here all year-round, plan an Outer Banks get away with you and your valentine in one of our cozier vacation homes!
New scenery, experiences and insight are why we all long to travel. The saying goes “we travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us.” Fresh salt air, uncharted territory, and one-of-a-kind experiences are just what you need to break up the routine and refresh your soul. From memorable day trips to one-of-a-kind outings, the Outer Banks has countless excursions to satisfy the wanderlust in all of us.
Keep reading to learn more about the Top 10 Excursions to Experience on the Outer Banks.
1. Day Trip to Ocracoke Island
Take the 40-minute ferry ride from Hatteras Island to the secluded and dreamy island of Ocracoke. The island stretches out nearly 13 miles with charming cottages, artisan shops, and a small town feeling that immediately makes you feel at ease. Most people travel by foot, bike, or golf cart to get around, so parents can relax and let the kids play. You can drive on the beach and try out as many water activities as you have energy for. You’ll easily see why the famous pirate, Blackbeard, spent so much time there.
2. Deep Sea Fishing Expedition
The thrill of reeling in a big fish is hard to explain unless you’ve experienced it firsthand. Heading out to the Gulf Stream with your friends for an all-day fishing trip is an unforgettable experience. Knowledgeable charter captains and mates will take you where the fish are biting so you can reel in large species of fish like tuna, dolphin (mahi), and billfish – including sailfish, white and blue marlin.
If picturesque places are your favorite part of traveling, you’ll want to sign up for a Corolla wild horse tour. Seeing the rolling sand dunes, beautiful oceanfront, and watching the wild Spanish colonial horses roam free is an image you’ll keep with you for years to come.
These famous lighthouses are not only navigational aids, they are full of history and detailed architecture with a wonderful view waiting for you at the top. The Currituck Beach, Bodie Island and Cape Hatteras Lighthouses are available to climb for a nominal fee. The Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse in Manteo and the Ocracoke Island Lighthouse are not open to climbers but are open to visit at your leisure.
5. Historic Outing at The Wright Brothers National Memorial
Celebrate and learn more about the incredible achievement the Wright Brothers made on the Outer Banks at The Wright Brothers Memorial in Kill Devil Hills. Tour the museum and learn more about that historic day and see artifacts from that time period. View replicas of the gliders and statues of the key players in the first day of flight. Traveling up to the top of the monument and reading the inscription, “Conceived by genius and achieved by dauntless resolution and unconquerable faith,” will leave you with a sobering feeling about how monumental this invention and event truly was.
Luckily, you don’t have to travel to tropical islands to see dolphins up close! Catch dolphins swimming and playing in their natural habitat on a dolphin cruise right here on the Outer Banks! Spend a few hours on the water following the bottlenose dolphins around the Atlantic Ocean and learning more about them.
Charm and history collide in the quaint town of Manteo on Roanoke Island. Steeped in tradition, history, and old world charm, Manteo is located on the western side of Bodie Island, surrounded by gentle soundfront waves. Walk where the settlers traveled on Roanoke Island, visit the gorgeous grounds at The Elizabethan Gardens, watch a live performance of The Lost Colony, the only outdoor drama, or just enjoy the sights, sounds, and quaint shops downtown. This waterfront community is the perfect place to explore on foot or by bike.
8. Explore Jockey’s Ridge State Park
Pack a water bottle and venture up the largest sand dune on the east coast. Pick up a stunt or decorative kite across the street at Kitty Hawk Kites and fly it high on the towering dunes. For the more adventurous , try your hand at hang gliding! Even the little ones will love this famous Outer Bank landmark – perfect for running up and then sliding down the dune (not to mention, burning off some energy!) All that exploring needs fuel! Bring lunch and enjoy a picnic at one of the 8 picnic shelters. (Each shelter has two tables and a grill.)
Recently remodeled and updated with several new exhibits and galleries, the Roanoke Island Aquarium in Manteo is a fun place for all ages to visit. Touch the stingrays as they glide through the shallow hands-on touch tank. Travel through the Wild Wetlands where river otters play and alligators lurk. Experience the aquarium’s hands-on Sea Turtle Rescue exhibit and conservation efforts in the Sea Turtle Assistance and Rehabilitation (STAR) Center. View high-definition films and the new “Science on a Sphere” experience in Neptune’s Theater. And lastly, marvel at the largest collection of sharks in the state in the Graveyard of the Atlantic – a giant shark aquarium with Gulf Stream interactive exhibit.
10. Trek through the Cape Hatteras National Seashore
If you’re longing for serenity and solitude, make time to visit the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Spreading out over 70 miles, this is a place where you can relax and enjoy a simpler way of life. Fish, kiteboard, swim, nature watch, or snap a few photos of the marshes and vast oceanfront. Playing and relaxing are both welcomed and encouraged here.
Excitement, adventure and new experiences await you on the Outer Banks. Don’t just daydream, do it! For more Outer Banks excursion ideas, visit Resort Realty’s Things to Do page.
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