If you don’t have a full week to devote to an Outer Banks vacation, no worries! The Outer Banks is the perfect place to plan a long weekend getaway! Plus, with partial week vacation rentals, a getaway to the Outer Banks can be affordable and fun. No matter if you want to lounge on the beach for the whole weekend (we don’t blame you, honestly) or want to see everything the OBX has to offer you, we’ve got you covered. Check out our Weekend Getaway Guide to get an idea for your Outer Banks escape!

F R I D A Y | beach days always

You’ve finally arrived to the Outer Banks! Use today to take a load off and relax after your drive in. Spend some time at the beach with your crew! Soak up the sun and feel the sand between your toes. Today is a great day to live like a local.

There are tons of great Outer Banks bars and restaurants that are just a short walk from the beach. No matter what town you’re staying in on the OBX, you can check out our local hangout blog here to find your new favorite post beach day dive! Take time out today to relax, recharge, and get ready for a fun filled weekend ahead of you!

S A T U R D A Y | time to explore

You’ve gotten a good night’s rest in your vacation home, now it’s time to get out and explore!

If you’re in Nags Head or Kill Devil Hills…

If you’re staying in Nags Head or Kill Devil Hills, you definitely should take a trip over to Manteo. This small town is home to so many activities. Visit Roanoke Island Festival Park and learn what life was like on Roanoke Island in 1585. Head to the North Carolina Aquarium and make a few fishy friends. Take in the sights of the beautiful Elizabethan Gardens when it’s in full bloom!

If you’re in Kitty Hawk, Duck, Southern Shores, or Corolla…

If you’re staying in one of the more northern towns of Kitty Hawk, Duck, Southern Shores, or Corolla, don’t worry. There’s plenty to do that way too! If you don’t want to make the drive to Manteo, you can visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial to learn all about the history of flight! In Corolla, the Currituck Beach Lighthouse is a must visit! Don’t forget about the Historic Whalehead Club! Plus, you may even get a glimpse of the wild horses!

If you’re on Hatteras Island…

Make sure you check out the Frisco Native American museum! You’ll learn all about the rich Native American History we have here on the Outer Banks. Of course you have to check out the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse! If you’re feeling adventurous, maybe even climb to the top, but the view from the ground is pretty amazing too!

S U N D A Y | brunch + shopping

Spend your last day brunchin’ it up on the Outer Banks. There are dozens of great brunch spots. Basnight’s Lone Cedar, Cafe Pamlico, and so many more OBX restaurants feature amazing brunch. After brunch, go shopping! Local boutiques and gift shops all over this chain of islands ensure you’ll be sure to find something amazing!

Who said you couldn’t get a great trip done in 3 days? With so many things to do, so many great towns, and so many great beaches, a 3 day getaway to the OBX is exactly what you need!