Grill master, funny guy, history buff or outdoorsmen – whatever title your dad may hold in your family, we can all agree he works hard and deserves some time to play harder.
Celebrate your dad this Father’s Day or the next time you’re visiting the Outer Banks by taking him to these Top 10 OBX Spots for Dad.
Skip the annual tie and sock gifts this year and give dad something he’ll really love, fun memories with his kids on the OBX.
Whether you book an off-shore fishing trip for dad or just want to check out the OBX fishing scene, Oregon Inlet Fishing Center in Nags Head is the place to be. This spot has the largest charter fishing fleet on the eastern seaboard and has over 30 charter boats that are available for fishing trips.
If you’re just curious to see what was caught that day, stop by between 4 pm – 5 pm as the boats are heading in for the day. You can also treat dad to some fishing and outdoor gear at the on-site store.
Dad will love teeing off on the challenging and scenic golf course at Kilmarlic. A leisurely day of golf alongside the maritime forest and coastal wetlands is sure to keep your dad smiling, especially if he’s winning.
Many of our vacation rental homes are K-Club Members, so you can enjoy preferred tee times and discounted rates at Kilmarlic.
Let dad unleash his inner pirate with a Kill Devil Rum Distillery Tour. Located in downtown Manteo, take a tour around the historic building and learn more about the rum making process for just $5.
Tours run Tuesday – Saturday at 1 pm & 3 pm.
Buggin’ Out Dune Buggy Rentals
Cruise around the OBX with the top down in a classic Dune Buggy from Bugging Out Rentals with dad. Scenic drives down the beach road, over the Bonner Bridge or a ferry ride to Ocracoke are even better with the wind in your hair, even if dad doesn’t have any.
2 and 4 seater buggys are available to rent for the day, for a 2 hour ride or a 3 hour sunset session. Off-road beach cruises are also available on Carova Beach.
Historic Tour around Roanoke Island
If your dad is an American history buff, he’ll be thrilled to travel around Roanoke Island and learn more about the first settlers and their time spent in modern day Manteo.
See a replica of the 60 ft Elizabeth II sailing ship, explore the Roanoke Island Adventure Museum and Settlement Site, visit the N.C. Maritime Museum and Roanoke Island Lighthouse.
There are lots of shops and dining locations nearby to take a break before hitting up the next historic site.
Outer Banks Fishing Boat Rentals
If dad prefers to be his own captain, consider renting a boat to cruise around on the sound. Pontoon, power and sail boats are available to rent from 2-7 days.
Cast a line, reminisce about past fishing trips and enjoy some time well spent enjoying the beautiful coastal views.
If your dad is a meat connoisseur, he will be more than satisfied with a dinner at JK’s. Steaks, seafood, chicken, great appetizers and a wonderful drink menu make for an awesome place to dine with dad.
Stunt Kite Flying on Jockey’s Ridge
Let dad show off his stunt kite flying tricks on Jockey’s Ridge. These heavy duty trick kites are tons of fun. Pick up your kite and some tips from the staff at Kitty Hawk Kites and head across the street to Jockey’s Ridge for a fun day of flying.
Hot dogs, snow cones and baseball make for a fun summer activity that dad will love. Watch some of the best collegiate baseball players compete with other teams from the Tidewater Summer League on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday nights throughout the summer.
The first pitch is thrown at 7:05 pm. Gates open at 6:00 pm so you can get the best seat in the house and grab a delicious bite to eat from local vendors.
Comedy Club in Kill Devil Hills
Share a laugh with dad and enjoy an entertaining evening at The Outer Banks Comedy Club at the Ramada and in Kill Devil Hills. Many award winning stand-up comedians make their way to the Outer Banks throughout the year for laugh out loud fun for ages 16 & up.
If not too late to plan a surprise getaway for dad this Father’s Day. Many vacation homes are offering incredibly affordable rates from the upcoming week. Treat dad (while treating yourself) to a special OBX getaway.
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.
Picture a place where wild horses roam free, coastal beauty abounds, and visitors feel at home. You can find this and more in the town of Corolla. This elegant southern community invokes a sense of awe with its stately oceanfront homes, wide-open beaches, and historic attractions. Located on the northern end of the Outer Banks, the town of Corolla is a magical place to vacation with family and friends. The young, old, and those in between, will fall in love with the coastal beauty and tranquility you’ll find there. Discover why Corolla is such a special destination with Resort Realty’s list of Top 10 Things to Do in Corolla, NC.
1 – Currituck Beach Lighthouse & Museum
220 steps is all it takes to climb to the top of the Currituck Beach Lighthouse. Panoramic views of the Currituck Sound, ocean, and Heritage Park make it worth the climb. The lighthouse has been a navigational aid since 1875 and continues to shine bright today. The lighthouse is open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. from March 14th to November 26th and is $10 to climb.
*Travel Tip – Check out the exhibits at the base of the lighthouse for a quick history lesson.
2 – Whalehead in Historic Corolla
The Whalehead Club has lived many lives over the years. It has served as a private minor, outdoorsmen’s lodge, military barracks, boarding school, and a rocket testing site. The club was renovated in 2002 and opened to the public to explore the 21,000 sq. ft. building, filled with historic portraits, art, and vintage architecture. Touring tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students, and free to children 8 and under.
*Travel Tip – Pack your camera! You’ll want to capture the beautiful architecture and soundfront views. Evening sunset and ghost tours are also available.
3 – Wild Horse Tours
The true locals of the Outer Banks, the wild Colonial Spanish Mustangs, have lived on the beaches of Corolla and Carova for centuries. Take an off-road tour in a 15 passenger safari truck and see these beautiful animals up close. Enjoy the scenery, the wind in your hair, and learn a little more about these Outer Banks natives.
* Travel Tip – Ask about the Corolla Wild Horse Tours’ ongoing discounts if you’re touring with a large group or are an active duty military member.
4 – The Currituck Club Golf Course
Golfers will love the challenge and the landscape of The Currituck Club’s 18 hole course, designed by renowned designer, Rees Jones. It is typical to see wildlife and the occasional eagle soar by while you play. The coastal terrain makes for a fun and challenging course.
*Travel Tip – Reserve your tee time online or by calling 252-453-9400.
5 – Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education
The Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education is a neighbor to the Currituck Lighthouse and Whalehead Club, located in Heritage Park. The center is free to the public from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm Monday – Saturday and features many exhibits, displays, and artifacts that tell the story of Currituck County and its coastal environment. Kids will love the 8,000 gallon aquarium tank, filled with fish and species from the area.
*Travel Tip – The center also offers 4 nature trails nearby for visitors to explore by the sound.
6 – Currituck Banks Coastal Estuarine Reserve
One of the most appealing qualities about the Outer Banks is that many places are undeveloped on purpose. The Coastal Estuarine Reserve is another beautiful landscape to visit to see local wildlife, fish, ponds, marshes and more. These lands have been preserved so travelers can enjoy mother nature for many years to come.
*Travel Tip – Remember to pack your binoculars for bird and animal watching and bug spray just in case.
7 – Historic Corolla Village
Take a step back in time at the Historic Corolla Village. Several of the town’s original landmarks and homes have been restored and are now places of business. Just down the road from Heritage Park, Historic Corolla Village is a great place to stroll around, shop, and admire the homes from long ago.
*Travel Tip – Take a rest stop under the pergola at A Village Garden. Check out the lovely blooms and landscaping while you take a break.
8 – Tim Buck II Shopping Center
Unique gifts and homemade treasures are easy to find at the Tim Buck II Shopping Center. With over 60 stores, there is something for everyone to do and see. If you can’t keep up with the shopaholics in your group, there are plenty of eateries where you can relax and treat yourself to something sweet.
*Travel Tip – For suggestions on dining or other local attractions, stop by Resort Realty’s Corolla office, located in Tim Buck II. We’d be happy to tell you our favorites and give you one of our coupon books.
9 – Corolla Adventure Golf & Bumper Cars
If you’re looking for a family-friendly spot to visit, make sure to stop by Corolla Adventure Golf & Bumper Cars. The mini golf course has a Corolla landmark theme with the Currituck Lighthouse, Whalehead Club, wild horses, and more! The kids will love pointing out all of the places they recognize at each hole.
*Travel Tip – If the park is busy before sunset, come back in the evenings. The course is well lit and the bumper cars have their own neon light display for late night fun.
10 – 4-Wheel Drive Beaches of Carova
Ahhh can you feel the warm beach days just ahead? Corolla offers several public beach accesses for guests, although most subdivisions provide their own oceanside parking. If you prefer wide open spaces, take your 4-wheeler drive vehicle down to the beaches of Carova, just north of NC 12. Sunbathe, build sandcastles, surf, watch the wild horses, or beach comb. The possibilities are endless!
*Travel Tip – Carova is only accessible with a 4-wheel drive vehicle. Make sure to let some air out of your tires for a smoother drive. Around 12 to 15 psi works best.
Gorgeous landscapes, wide open beaches, and historic attractions are yours for the taking in Corolla. If this sounds like your type of place, browse our selection of vacation rental homes to host your upcoming Corolla getaway.
Charm is the word that immediately comes to mind when describing the spirit of the town of Duck, North Carolina. The unique boutiques, friendly community and awe-inspiring beaches and sound give Duck its reputation for being one of the best small towns in America. Duck was originally considered a sportsman’s paradise, but over the years, has grown to be a paradise for anyone who enjoys being immersed in nature and a simpler way of life. While vacationing on the Outer Banks, make sure to visit the Town of Duck and experience the beauty and charm firsthand. Here is our list of the Top 10 Things to Do in Duck.
1 // The Town of Duck Boardwalk
Stroll along the 3,386 square foot boardwalk for gorgeous views of the Currituck Sound and surrounding wildlife. The boardwalk is open daily from dawn to dusk. Get your exercise in during the morning and come back for a gorgeous sunset at night.
* Travel Tip – If you bring or rent a kayak or paddleboard, you can launch it from dock located in the middle of the boardwalk. There is also a designated fishing and crabbing area.
2 // The Town Green + Amphitheater
The Town of Duck creates its “small-town” vibe with various free community events throughout the year on the Town Green and Amphitheater. Perhaps the most popular event is the Duck Jazz Festival in October. In the summertime, there is a free event, open to locals and visitors Tuesday through Thursday that include exercise classes, a kid’s interactive theater, magic shows and evening concerts.
*Travel Tip – Visit our event page for the Town of Duck’s summer event schedule.
3 // The Waterfront Shops
Where else can you feed the geese and your shopping urges all at once? The Waterfront Shops provide a memorable shopping experience with over 18 shops, restaurants and eateries located along the sound.
*Travel Tip – Fuel up for a shopping trip with a morning coffee at Duck’s Cottage. The atmosphere and selection is just right for coffee and book lovers!
4 // Aqua Spa + Restaurant
Relaxing is an easy task at the Aqua Spa. The property functions as both a restaurant on the bottom level and spa on the top floor. Â Soothe your body and soul with a massage, body treatment, facial or nail service paired with a beautiful soundfront view.
*Travel Tip – After your spa treatment, head downstairs for an appetizer and drink on Aqua Restaurant’s waterfront dining area.
5 // Nor’Banks Sailing + Watersports
Venture out to Nor’Banks Sailing & Watersports for a fun-filled day on the water. You can ride on the waverunners, go parasailing, tubing, paddleboading or kayaking. Pontoon and sailing boats are also available to rent.
*Travel Tip – Make sure to check the weather before booking to make the most of your watersport adventure. The calmer, the better!
6 // The Blue Point
Treat yourself to an upscale dining experience on the waterfront at The Blue Point. A true farm to table restaurant, The Blue Point’s menu changes along with the seasons. They offer creative seafood and meat entrees, fresh salads, wonderful appetizers, desserts and a fine selection of wines.
*Travel Tip – Make sure to start your meal off with one of their soups! They are delicious!
7 // Scarborough Faire Shopping Village
If you’re on the hunt of a special treasure or gift, the Scarborough Faire shops have a wide variety of beautiful items to choose from, including clothing, home decor, jewelry, books, food and more!
*Travel Trip – Visit on Wednesdays in the summertime for their Faire Day Festivals. Petting zoos, live music and crafts are just a few of the fun activities they have going on from 1:30-5:00 pm, beginning June 8th – August 31st.
8 // Duck Donuts
We might be biased, but most Outer Banks visitors would agree that Duck Donuts are the best donuts they have ever had. In our opinion, they taste even better at the original store where it all started; right here in Duck! The donuts are made fresh to order and pair perfectly with your morning coffee.
*Travel Tip – Maple bacon is a fan favorite, but go out on a limb and create your own combination!
9 // Paddleboard Tours
Stand up paddle boarding is a fun activity multi-generational groups can experience together. Take a tour on the sound or the ocean. Outer Banks Stand Up Paddle offers group and private lessons.
*Travel Tip – Bring the crew for a discounted rate. Introductory lessons are $40 per person for groups of 8 or more.
10 // The Beach
Uncrowded and pet friendly, the oceanfront in Duck is a prime location for those that what to get away from it all. The town does not have public beach accesses so there is no outside travel, beside locals and visitors that are vacationing there. The beaches are yours for the taking!
*Travel Tip – If you’re staying at a pet friendly home, your furry friends are allowed to be unleashed on the beach!
If you want to experience Duck for yourself, browse our wide selection of vacation rental homes.
Kill Devil Hill’s has a history of inspiring ingenuity and creativity. The beautiful landscape and conditions were monumental for the Wright Brothers and still create a sense of awe for visitors today. Kill Devil Hills is located in the heart of the Outer Banks and offers plenty of activities, sights, and sounds to keep you inspired and entertained. On you next trip to the OBX, make sure to explore these top 10 places and activities, located in Kill Devil Hills, NC.
Wright Brothers National Memorial
Resting high on the soundside, the Wright Brother’s National Memorial Park is a must-see while in Kill Devil Hills. Start you visit by learning about the forefathers of aviation and at the Visitors Center and then tour the reconstructed camp buildings to get a sense of what life was like for the brothers. Take a walk along the flight line to see the first successful take off and landing points and hike up to the monument and take in the history and bird’s eye view of Kill Devils Hills. A photo op is available nearby with sculptures that commemorate the first day of flight.
Avalon Fishing Pier
Located at milepost 6, the Avalon Fishing Pier is a great spot to catch blue fish, croakers, flounder, and more! The pier stretches out 696 feet over the Atlantic Ocean and features an arcade inside for those too skittish to bait their hook. Day passes for fishing are $12.00 for adults and $6.00 for kids 12 and under. Multiple day passes are also available for the avid fishermen in your group. We can’t guarantee you’ll catch a bucket full of fish, but we can promise you beautiful views at this popular Kill Devil Hills attraction.
Paradise Fun Park
Test your putting skills around this challenging course that features popular OBX attractions. This park also offers bumper cars, Go-Karts, a trampoline, and an indoor arcade that all ages will enjoy. To top it off…the park is open 24/7 during the summer months!
OBX Art Studio
Release your creativity at OBX Art Studio! Create a special souvenir to remember on your OBX vacation, while enjoying time spent with friends and family. The studio is open daily from 10 am – 6 pm and no reservations are required.
Nags Head Woods
Did you know Nags Head woods actually spans all the way to Kill Devil Hills? You can go down Ocean Acres Drive and have access to the Nags Head Woods preserve! There’s multiple paths (one wheelchair friendly) for you and your group to walk down and take in a little maritime nature views!
EAT!
Kill Devil Hills is home to the bulk of tasty Outer Banks restaurants and bars (hence the local term “french fry alley” regarding the stretch of chain restaurants in this town). Seriously; you can eat your way around Kill Devil Hills. You can start the day with breakfast from Stack’em High or Ten O Six, lunch at Food Dudes with their famous fish tacos, and dinner just about anywhere you please! Mama Kwans has Asian inspired cuisine that is sure to please! You’ll find some of the best pizza at Slice Pizzeria, amazing burgers at Jack Brown’s; seriously the options are endless. Other great, local spots include The Colington Cafe, Thai Room, Food Dudes, Miller’s, JK’s, and Awful Arthur’s.
Surf Lessons with Outer Surf
Have you always wanted to ride the waves? Learn how from some of the OBX best instructors from Outer Surf. Outer Surf is owned and operated by Bri Vuyovich, an OBX local and avid surfer. Bri along with other Outer Surf instructors will teach you the ins and outs of surfing, ocean safety, and the anatomy of a surfboard in affordable 90 minute lessons!
Aviation Park and Skate Park
If you’re looking for change of scenery, check out the Aviation Park and Skate Park. This free park is open from sunrise to sunset and offers a safe place to for all ages to play. The park includes a playground, ball field, frog pond, fitness trail, roller hockey rink and skate park.
Bay Drive Boat Ramp, Soundfront Gazebo, & Walking/Bike Paths
Located on the soundfront, Bay Drive is a scenic spot to watch the sunset over the water. You’re sure to see several photographers around before sunset; waiting to capture the perfect shot. Take the dog on a walk down to the soundfront gazebo and along the walking and bike trails for some exercise and peaceful views.
….and now of the main attraction
The Beach!
We know the main reason you’re here…for the beach! Kill Devil Hills has plenty of oceanfront for all to enjoy. Public beach accesses begin at milepost 5.5 on Helga Street and continue down to milepost 9.5. Swim, walk, sunbathe, surf, build sandcastles, read a book….enjoy the beach any way you choose!
Next time you’re on the Outer Banks, make sure to visit the beautiful and lively town of Kill Devil Hills. Browse our selection of Kill Devil Hills vacation homes and find your perfect place to spend your week in paradise.
Happy 100th Birthday, National Park Service!
National Park Week, April 16th to 24th, 2016, is America’s largest celebration of national heritage. From exploring amazing places to discovering open spaces to enjoying affordable vacations, visiting a national park is a great way to get out and explore this land that was made for you and me! (more…)
Forget the green! College basketball fans have bypassed St. Patty’s Day and deemed March the month of basketball.
If you’re visiting the Outer Banks for Spring Break, and looking for the perfect place to watch your favorite team play during March Madness, you’re in luck! The Outer Banks is packed with college basketball fans along with plenty of hangout spots to grab a great meal, local brew, and watch the tournament unfold.
Let’s introduce you to some of our favorite OBX restaurants from Corolla to Hatteras Island to watch all of the awesome March Madness unfold…
Barefoot Bernies in Kitty Hawk
Barefoot Bernies has a great wraparound bar area with plenty of flat screen TVs to comfortably sit and watch the game. You’re sure to find something you love on their island inspired food and drink menu.
Lighthouse Sports Bar in Buxton on Hatteras Island
Shoot some pool during halftime at this comfortable local hangout in Buxton, NC. The laid back atmosphere and local crowd will make you feel at home.
A favorite among locals, Lucky 12 is a fun local dive bar with a vintage flair. They have 16 flat screen TVs with the College Game Day Package, games, and local beers on tap. Make sure to order one of their delicious pizzas to share while you cheer on your team.
Pangea Tavern in Avon on Hatteras Island
Pangea Tavern is the hot spot on Hatteras Island if you’re a craft beer enthusist. This intimate hangout spot has an upbeat atmosphere, perfect for celebrating your team’s victory.
Uncle Ike’s Sandbar & Grill in Corolla
Uncle Ike’s offers a good mix of your game day favorites like wings and nachos, but they also have great salads for the healthier members of your party. You’re sure to meet a fellow fan while catching the game here!
Sundogs Raw Bar & Grill in Corolla
Sports, live music, and delicious food are what Sundogs Raw Bar & Grill is all about. Bring your friend for a fun-filled night out.
Captain George’s in Kill Devil Hills
Although they are famous for their seafood buffet, Captain George’s also has a spacious bar area with plenty of TVs for your viewing pleasure. Grab a seat at the bar or at one of the booths that features its own personal TV! They have a great appetizer menu with all of your game day favorite finger foods.
Shipwrecks Taphouse and Grill in Kitty Hawk
Shipwrecks OBX is a favorite among locals on the Outer Banks, serving up fresh seafood in a relaxed, casual setting. With a lively sports bar atmosphere, refreshing cocktails, standout daily specials, and fun weekly events, it’s a go-to spot for everything from coastal classics to hearty land-and-sea dishes.
The Roadside’s Barside Bar has a laid back, camp out vibe like no other spot on the Outer Banks. They have a projector screen outside for the big games and a fun atmosphere that everyone in your group will enjoy.
Which NCAA team are you pulling for? We’d love to hear about your favorite college basketball teams and OBX game day spots. If you’d rather watch the tournaments from the comfort of your home, check out our upcoming blog featuring the Best Media Rooms to Watch March Madness!
Celebrate Easter weekend on the Outer Banks and enjoy egg hunts, a kite festival, and other fun events. (more…)
Getting excited about all of the restaurants opening back up this Spring?! So are we! We gathered the opening dates of some of the highly anticipated local Outer Banks spots that are reopening this month. We’ve been dreaming about fried fish and froyo all winter long, so without further adieu… the starting line up:
Photo via Surfin Spoon website
Surfin’ Spoon
Opening Day: March 12th
Highlights: Enjoy your mix of froyo flavors, and pick from dozens of toppings for your own creation to enjoy on a beautiful sunny day.
Photo via John’s Facebook page
John’s Drive In
Opening Day: March 17th
Highlights: Umm… do we have to choose?! Made to order milkshakes, burgers, and dolphin boats to name a few. This walk up and order establishment is a Kitty Hawk staple.
Photo via Lucky 12 Facebook
Lucky 12
Opening Day: March 3rd
Highlights: Great place to celebrate the Irish in you this March, over a dozen beers on draft, and pizza til 2am
Photo by The Dunes Facebook
The Dunes
Opening Day: March 11 (open for breakfast)
Highlights: Your choice of waffles, hotcakes, or the southern favorite, shrimp and grits.
Photo via Awful Arther’s Facebook
Awful Arthur’s
Opening Day: March 7th
Highlights: Their under $10 lunch specials such as Popcorn Shrimp Basket and White Fish Basket with fries make it a great spot to catch lunch with friends and enjoy the ocean view.
Photo via Red Drum Facebook
Red Drum Taphouse
Opening Day: March 4th
Highlights: With daily specials and lots on tap, you’ll never be at a loss for options at this taphouse.
Photo via Nags Head Pier site
Nags Head Fishing Pier
Opening Day: April 14
Highlights: Breakfast at the restaurant, evening drinks at the tiki bar, and good fishing on the pier itself.
Photo via Sam & Omie’s Faceook
Sam and Omies
Opening day: March 10th
Highlights: They are in their 79th season, they know what they’re doin. With different specials every day, their breakfast, lunch and dinner has it goin’ on.
Photo via Full Moon’s Facebook
Full Moon Brewery
Opening Day: March 11th
Highlights: They offer many hand crafted brews like the Lost Colony Brown Ale.
Photo via Sundogs’ Facebook
Sundogs Raw Bar & Grill
Opening Day: March 10 (serving dinner)
Highlights: The happening place to be for a late night cocktail in Corolla. There’s always something going on between pool, karaoke, and drink specials.
Photo via Sugar Creek Facebook
Sugar Creek
Opening Day: March 17
Highlights: This soundfront location offers the best views of the sun setting on the sound while enjoying your dinner.
Photo via Miller’s Facebook
Miller’s Seafood & Steakhouse
Opening date: May 19th
Highlights: Offering breakfast and dinner, this beach road restaurant offers early bird specials for those who dine before 5pm!
What restaurant are you most excited about reopening for the spring season?
Did we miss any of your favorites? Comment below and we’ll add them on!
Sandcastles, beachcombing, and sunny days by the sea. Spring is almost here!
After a harsh winter, we’re all looking forward to flowers blooming and brighter, warmer days ahead. The kids are anxiously counting down the days until it’s officially Spring Break and adults are longing for a little R&R. A trip to the Outer Banks of North Carolina this spring is just what you need to hold you over until your summer beach vacation.
With the summer crowds yet to arrive and miles of gorgeous (empty) beaches waiting to be claimed, you’ll discover why spring is one of the most peaceful and relaxing times to visit our pristine shores.
We’ve got the week mapped out for you with the top 10 things to do in spring on the OBX! You just need to book an Outer Banks vacation home and then kick back and enjoy all that spring has to offer on the OBX!
1. Tour of The Elizabethan Gardens
The first signs of spring are warmer weather, birds chirping and flowers blooming. Experience the beauty of spring at The Elizabethian Gardens in Manteo. Take a tour of the gardens and enjoy the scenic views.
2. Fly into Spring & Easter Eggstravaganza
Easter egg hunts, a kite festival, and meet and greet with the Easter Bunny are all in the works at Kitty Hawk Kites Eggstravaganza. Breathe in the fresh air on top of the worlds largest sand dune, Jockeys Ridge, and watch the colorful kites dance over the horizon. Easter Egg Hunts broken down by age group will take place on both days. And…don’t forget to snap a photo with the Easter Bunny! You can find more information on this yearly event here on Kitty Hawk Kites website!
3. Private Kite Boarding Lesson
The wind and the weather are just right this spring to finally try your hand at kiteboarding. Outer Banks Kiting in Avon offers private half and full day lessons for beginners to pick up the basic maneuvers and tricks of the trade with their own personal coach.
Learn a little Corolla, NC history while enjoying the beautiful surroundings on a Corolla horse tour. Adults and children will both love this off-roading adventure and a chance to see what the “real” locals look like in their natural surroundings.
Uncrowded beaches mean there are plenty of shells and other beach treasures that are waiting to be discovered. Take a leisurely walk on any of the beaches from Corolla to Hatteras Island and keep your eyes open for unique shells and sea glass.
The OBX is a fisherman’s paradise with a variety of fish to reel in from several noteworthy fishing piers. The piers open up again just in time for Spring Break. You can expect to catch grouper, sea trout, bluefish, and snapper fish in late March and early April.
7. OBX Taste of the Beach
This annual foodie event is 4 days of food, drink, and fun on the OBX. Taste of the Beach is a fantastic way to sample some of the Outer Banks finest coastal fair and beverages. With over 60 events stretched out over 40 different venues, there is an activity for everyone. Cooking and bartending classes, multi-course dinners, live music, and behind the scenes tours are just a few of the fun-filled events taking place.
Unique items, hand crafted by local artisans, and special mementos make shopping on the Outer Banks a memorable experience. Tim Buck II in Corolla and Scarborough Faire Shopping Center, Scarborough Lane, and Waterfront Shops in Duck are just a few of the quaint, charming shopping areas to visit on your Outer Banks spring getaway.
9. Bike Rides & Walking Trails
Whether you cruise along the beach road on South Virginia Dare Trail or catch the sunset at Bay Drive in Kill Devil Hills, there is always a great view and cool breeze to enjoy while biking. The Wright Brothers Multi-Use Path in Kitty Hawk, Nags Head Woods, and the Duck Boardwalk are also great trails for scenic views. And don’t forget your furry companions! We offer 150 pet-friendly Outer Banks homes — perfect for your 4-legged family members to relax in after exploring these popular Outer Banks nature trails.
10. First Flight Adventure Park
Craving a little adventure? The First Flight Adventure Park reopens just in time for Spring Break and is the one and only aerial park on the Outer Banks. Challenge yourself with 48 different obstacles that go up to 50 feet in the air. The course is designed for ages 6 and up and offers courses for the active and no so active members of your group.
From cozy 1-bedroom OBX condos to exquisite 14-bedroom luxury vacation rentals, Resort Realty has just the right home for you and your family this spring. Right now you can take advantage of our Taste of the Beach and Spring Break specials — where you can stay 3 nights and get one FREE!*
