There’s no doubt that the OBX is a magical place. What’s better than an amazing Outer Banks dining experience with a beautiful view of the sound or the ocean? We’ve come up with the best Outer Banks spots to eat your meal while enjoying an amazing view!
Miller’s Waterfront Restaurant
Nags Head
Enjoy soundside sunsets at Miller’s Waterfront Restaurant along with a unique Outer Banks dining experience! Our dish suggestion? Their crab cakes served blackened, fried, or broiled; with roasted red pepper remoulade. Upstairs at Miller’s, you’ll find The Waterfront that overlooks the Pamlico Sound and provides patrons with a more laid back experience, perfect for those post beach meals or happy hour drink!
Lone Cedar
Nags Head
Lone Cedar is a local love and visitor favorite! View soundside sunsets, and even see Ricky and Lucy the Ospreys in their nest! Shrimp and Grits with andouille sausage, peppers, onions, and chives is a must try.
Sugar Creek
Nags Head
Sugar Creek offers stunning sound views and mesmerizing sunsets. This family-friendly eatery is perfect for you and your crew. Try the fried oyster platter while they’re in season!
Rundown Cafe
Kitty hawk
Rundown Cafe takes the best of the Outer Banks and adds island and Asian flare! Tropical drinks, fun appetizers, and great entrees are found at Rundown. You’ll get a great view of the ocean on the tiki deck. You have to try one of the famous noodle bowls!
The Paper Canoe
Duck
Located in Duck, The Paper Canoe offers gourmet dishes with a side of stunning sunset views! With dishes featuring freshly caught Outer Banks seafood, crisp veggies, and grade A meats, you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu!
Art’s Place
Kitty Hawk
Art’s Place is a local treasure and the biggest kept secret on the Outer Banks. Their specialty sandwiches and wraps keep restaurant goers coming back! More than just amazing food, Art’s Place overlooks the Atlantic Ocean offering you amazing food with a stunning view. Sidenote: their burgers are a must try!
The Blue Point
Duck
Located in Duck, The Blue Point overlooks the Currituck sound and has been offering some of the best gourmet dishes the Outer Banks has to offer. From Angus beef tenderloins to locally caught scallops, you cant go wrong with the Blue Point.
Black Pelican
Kitty Hawk
The Black Pelican has a rich history on the Outer Banks. The building was constructed in 1874 and was once the Kitty Hawk Lifesaving Station, so naturally, you’ll get a beautiful view of the beach! Black Pelican serves dishes like housemade crab cakes, bacon wrapped scallops, southern fried flounder, and so much more!
1587
Manteo
Located inside the Tranquil House Inn, 1587 gives you a relaxed and elegant atmosphere. With a breathtaking view of the Shallowbag Bay and creative cuisine, 1587 is a must try on your next Outer Banks visit or night out.
Oceanfront Grille
Corolla
This fun family restaurant offers a casual atmosphere with 5 star dishes. Oceanfront Grille is true to its namesake with beautiful views of the pristine Corolla beach!
Cafe Pamlico
Buxton
Serving breakfast and lunch, Cafe Pamlico needs to be on your hit list as well. Cafe Pamlico is a fine dining, relaxed experience with dishes like braised short rib, Wanchese sea scallops, and more, you’ll be wanting to come back for the great food and beautiful sunsets.
December and our Christmas playlist are officially here! That means it’s time for hot chocolate, Christmas movies, and of course trimming the tree! Whether you set up the tree on your own or with your family and friends, you absolutely need a jumpin’ playlist to get you in the holiday spirit (we don’t make the rules, Santa does). From classics like “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree” by Brenda Lee to early 2000s hits like “Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays” by *NSYNC, we’ve got you covered.
Resort Realty’s Music Monday is back and we’re here to give you all the holiday vibes. Check out this month’s Christmas playlist with all of your holiday favorites: “Trim The Tree”.
Outer Banks fishing tends to yield bountiful results! Plenty of Dolphin, Wahoo, and Yellowfin have been caught offshore on the Outer Banks. Inshore boats have reported cobia and Spanish and piers have reported Spot, Croaker, Sea Mullet, and Sand Perch. Sound fishing has also reported that Trout fish is catching great too! Needless to say, fishing on the OBX is on point this season!
As one of the East Coast’s most popular fishing destinations, fishermen make yearly pilgrimages to the Outer Banks, a mecca of sport fishing . So if you’re headed down to the OBX to cast your line, check out some of these tips to ensure yourself a memorable fishing experience!
Ocean Fishing
Surf and Pier Fishing
Surf and pier fishing on the Outer Banks begins in March and peak in May and again in November.
For those who enjoy Outer Banks surf fishing, there are innumerable options along more than 100 miles of coastline. Pier fishermen can enjoy several Outer Banks piers located from Kill Devil Hills to Hatteras. For surf fishing, be sure to obtain the proper permits from the NC Fish and Wildlife Service. You can purchase your license here and find out more information here.
Offshore Charter Fishing
The Outer Banks is often called “The Billfish Capital of the World”. Anglers from all across the globe come to the Outer Banks to set out in search of blue marlin, white marlin, and sailfish. Many of those anglers head over to Oregon Inlet. Hundreds of magnificent billfish are caught and released each year, starting in June with the peak season around August and September. Fish like tuna and dolphin (mahi) are other popular offshore catches caught throughout the summer and into the fall. Plus, freshly caught tuna and dolphin make for some seriously killer fish tacos. YUM!
Sound Fishing
Outer Banks fishing is at its best on the sound! The sound is a mix of freshwater and saltwater (brackish), making it a prime location for casting out your line. Local sounds, including the Roanoke, Croatan, and Pamlico, are where you can cast out a line. Speckled trout, red drum, flounder, spot, croaker, and striped bass are some of the many fish you may find yourself reeling in. Take a small boat out or charter a vessel with an experienced crew. You can even cast out a line on the “little bridge,” also known as the Melvin R Daniels Bridge. Looking for a bit of solitude? Even fly fishing is popular in the area!
What Seafood Is in Season Until Labor Day on the Outer Banks?
July:
Dolphin, wahoo, blue marlin, sailfish, white marlin, sea mullet, flounder, bluefish, Spanish mackerel, shrimp, crabs, soft crabs, spot, and croaker.
August:
Blue marlin, white marlin, sailfish, dolphin, wahoo, tuna, bluefish, flounder, Spanish mackerel, croaker, speckled trout, spot, shrimp, and crabs.
September:
White Marlin, blue marlin, sailfish, tuna, Spanish mackerel, king mackerel, spot, bluefish, speckled trout, sea mullet, red drum, shrimp, and striped bass.
Regulations:
The following is a list of fishing regulations for the months of July, August, and September for some of the more popular fish:
State Coastal Waters * (internal and 0-3 miles out); Exclusive Economic Zone EEZ (3-200 miles out)
Striped Bass: 28” minimum size, 2 per person/ day for Atlantic Ocean year-round.
Grouper: 20″ min. size, 3 per day (24″ for black and gag, 1 per day)*; same for EEZ.King Mackerel: 24″ min. size, 3 per day*; same for EEZ.
Spanish Mackerel: 12″min. size, 15 per day; same for EEZ.
Blue Marlin: 99″ min size, 1 per vessel/trip, either Blue or White Marlin; 99″ and state rules apply when landing for EEZ.
White Marlin: 66″ min size, 1 per vessel/trip either Blue or White Marlin; and state rules apply when landing for EEZ.
Mullet: no restrictions other than 200 per day*; same for EEZ.
Speckled Trout: 14″ min. size, 4 per day*; same for EEZ.
For a complete Marine Fisheries list, click here. Follow these fishing guidelines and helpful hints, and explore the infinite possibilities of an Outer Banks fishing expedition.
An Outer Banks fishing trip is perfect for the avid angler. Plus, with homes located near fishing piers, on the oceanfront, and within short distance of marinas and charters, the fisherman in your crew is sure to find the house of their dreams! Book your stay with Resort Realty today, and happy fishing!
The Outer Banks is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country, there’s no doubt about it (but we can’t help to be biased here). While the beach is one of the best Instagram posts you can have, there are a few more spots that’ll definitely improve your feed on your next Outer Banks vacation. We’ve updated our blog from March 2017 with some of the best spots of 2020! Once you visit the below spots, be sure to tag us on instagram at @resortrealtyobx and use the hashtag #ResortOBX to be featured on our page and in our brochure! Check out our top 10 Insta-Worthy Outer Banks spots and get ready for the likes to pour in.
Kitty Hawk Pier
The Kitty Hawk Pier has a rich, Outer Banks history. Originally constructed in 1953, the pier was ruined by Hurricane Isabel in 2003; just after undergoing about $300,000 worth of renovations. In 2006, the Hilton Garden Inn purchased the pier and is now popularly used for weddings and events. The pier is still open to the public with purchase of a pier pass; making it a great place for some great insta pics or just taking in the view of the beaches!
Ashley’s Espresso Parlour
Trust us; go for the coffee and fresh baked treats and stay for the great photo spots! Ashley’s Espresso Parlour has been open on the OBX for just over a year now. Their menu consists of a multitude of coffee drinks, local beers, baked goods and more! Our personal suggestion? Any of the amazing cold brew milkshakes. A sweet treat that’ll definitely have you bright eyed for your Outer Banks instagram pics.
Wright Brothers Monument
Oh, the Wright Brothers. Quite possibly the biggest contributors to modern day flight. The first manned flight took place in Kitty Hawk on December 17th, 1903. The Wright Brothers National Memorial is located in Kill Devil Hills and not only is it educational, but it provides some of the best spots to take photos and have a piece of history to hold on to long after vacation is over.
Sea Green Gallery
Seagreen Gallery is an Outer Banks hidden gem. Located on the beach road in Nags Head, Seagreen Gallery is home to art made from recycled and repurposed items. Everything from the giant wave made from license plates and candles made from Coca-Cola bottles, Seagreen Gallery has given new life to items that most people overlook. Plus, the back garden is full of life, spanning from tropical plants, driftwood waves, and the cutest little bunnies you’ve ever seen. You’ll leave Seagreen Gallery with a new piece of unique art for sale along with some great Outer Banks Instagram content for your feed.
Bodie Island Lighthouse
Bodie Island Lighthouse was commissioned in 1837 by the US government. The 156 foot tall lighthouse helped guide boats safely to shore. The Bodie Island Lighthouse (actually pronounced as “body”) is full of Outer Banks history…and a great photo op. There’s a huge lawn that’s perfect for posing right in-front of the lighthouse, a docked path that leads to an overlook of the marsh, and a covered porch; all perfect places for Outer Banks Instagram content!
Festival Park
Roanoke Island Festival Park is home to historical representations of what life was like in 1585. Strictly a military settlement, the colony of 1585 is known as the colony before the Lost Colony. On site at Festival Park, there is a working blacksmith, representational ship named the Queen Elizabeth II, and history museum! In addition, the grounds surrounding the park features a soundfront dock that gives you stunning views of downtown Manteo; perfect for Instagram pics.
Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse
The Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse is actually a replica lighthouse of the original that was built in 1877. The lighthouse was originally located in Wanchese in order to help sailors and fishermen find their way to dock. Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse is a great spot for photos since it provides super cool views of the Nags Head bridge, the Elizabeth II, and the back side of Pirate’s Cove!
Other Great OBX Photo Spots
Corolla Wild Horses
Corolla
Seeing the wild horses in Corolla is a must! It’s so cool to see them roaming around free and swimming in the ocean. Just make sure when you do take photos, you zoom in. You have to stay at least 50 feet away from the wild horses. It’s illegal and dangerous to get any closer than that.
Triangle Shipwreck
Kill Devil Hills
If you’re more adventurous and are familiar with free diving or snorkeling, grab your GoPro and check out the Triangle Wrecks in Kill Devil Hills! These wrecks met their fates back in the 20s on the Outer Banks. One ship, the Kyzickes, wreck in December 1927 and the second ship, the Carl Gerhard, wrecked in 1929 and cut the Kyzickes in half. Exploring the shipwreck is fun but best done when the water is clear and especially best done with a dive buddy so you’ll be safe and so they can get some rad pictures and video of your adventure.
Waterfront Shops
Duck
The Waterfront Shops in Duck are home to all of your shopping and ice cream needs. With little ice cream stores and shops like Life’s a Beach (an official Lilly Pulitzer retailer) and Islands by Amity, you’ll have the perfect wardrobe and the perfect backdrop for your next Instagram post!
Corolla Beer Garden
Corolla
The Beer Garden has over 60 different craft beers and wine for you to try! Located in Corolla just off of Highway 12, The Beer Garden welcomes everyone, including your four-legged friend! With a quirky and chill island vibe, The Beer Garden is the perfect place to unwind after a long beach day with the perfect backdrop for tons of pictures!
Ben Franklin
Nags Head
Ben Franklin is an OBX staple that happens to have some pretty awesome artwork painted on their building! The entire outside of the store has a seascape painted that’s perfect for taking instagram photos. You can even get yourself a souvenir inside!
The Spot
Nags Head
The Spot will soon be your new favorite place to cool off when you come to the Outer Banks. Serving up smoothies, ice cream, and their specialty acai bowls, The Spot in Nags Head is perfect for a sweet treat in between beach sessions. Treat yourself to an ice cream cone or a for a healthier treat grab a Loggerhead Bowl (pictured above). Not only are acai bowls super good for you, they photograph well too!
Elizabethan Gardens
Manteo
Make sure you have enough storage on your phone because you’ll want to take pictures of everything at The Elizabethan Gardens. There’s so many different plants and flowers, you won’t see anything you don’t like. Located at the North-end of Manteo, The Elizabethan Gardens will transport you to a garden fit for Queen Elizabeth herself. You’ll be a hit on Instagram with your pictures because honestly, who doesn’t love flowers?!
Nags Head Woods
Nags Head
Take a hike through Nags Head woods! With over 5 miles of trails, you’ll see wooded dunes, ponds, marsh and more! 7 different trails are available to explore, even a trail for those who have disabilities to get out and experience the beauty of Nags Head woods! Any trail you pick will sure to be picture perfect!
Pea Island Wildlife Refuge
Hatteras Island
Pea Island is about 13 miles of land with no hotels, business, or houses in sight. This land is completely undeveloped and home to about 400 species of migrating birds and other wildlife. You’ll definitely see some awesome bird sightings and stretches of beach without any building in sight; giving the perfect setup for the best Outer Banks instagram photos!
The Outer Banks is home to some of the top dog spots on the East Coast. Outer Banks beaches are nationally renowned as the East Coast’s best beaches. With miles and the beautiful outdoors to explore, you’ll find no shortage of pet-friendly hot spots. From our beautiful beaches to special “pup cups,” your dog will love an OBX getaway just as much as you! Plus, with a variety of OBX pet-friendly rentals, every member of the family is welcome at Resort Realty. So, what are you waiting for? Pack up the leash and toys, read our pet policy, and head to the OBX to our favorite dog spots!
1. The Beach
The beaches of the Outer Banks are well known for being uncrowded, so everyone can enjoy. Your pup can fetch frisbees in the waves or chase the occasional ghost crab or sandpiper. Your furry friend will have the time of their life at this favorite Outer Banks dog spot. Just be sure to follow each town’s specific leash laws.
2. The Sound
Travel to the other side of the OBX, and you can enjoy a day on the sound. The Croatan, Roanoke, Currituck, and Pamlico Sounds are all perfect for dogs! There are tracts of maritime forest and sandy beaches, complete with shallow waters for playing or cooling off. The beaches on the soundside have water that reaches a total depth of about 5 feet. Ideal for a splashing good time.
3. Nags Head Woods
Nags Head Woods is owned and operated by The Nature Conservancy and makes up 1,092 acres of land. This vast park consists of dunes, ponds, marshes, and wetlands. It’s nestled on the soundside (westside) of the Outer Banks. Hiking trails are open daily from dawn to dusk for foot traffic only. Please register at the outdoor information counter. Additionally, dogs on leashes are allowed on the following trails: Discovery, Roanoke, ADA, and Town Trail. Dogs are prohibited on the Center, Sweetgum, and Blueberry Ridge Trails.
4. Jockey’s Ridge State Park
Feeling ambitious? Head on over to Jockey’s Ridge in Nags Head. This 426-acre park is home to hang gliding, kite flying, hiking, a visitor’s center, a museum, and picnic facilities. Keep in mind, as the largest sand dune on the East Coast, the sand can get hot in the summer, so your dog’s paws will need protection. Park rules also state that pets must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Remember to be considerate of other park visitors and clean up after your pet, but enjoy a sun and sand filled day on this iconic OBX landmark.
5. Wright Brothers National Memorial
Want to conquer another OBX height? Bring your 4-legged friend and climb to the top of the Wright Brothers Monument! At the top, you’ll quickly discover a breathtaking view of the Outer Banks. Additionally, you and your pup can stand in the same spot where the Wright brothers made their first flights!
6. Currituck Heritage Park
The Whalehead Club, the Wildlife Education Center, the Currituck Light, and Currituck Heritage Park are home to acres of soundside beaches and grassy lawns. It’s the perfect place for you and your furry friends to explore. Plus, you’ll learn about the rich history of Corolla!
7. Fort Raleigh National Historic Site
Located on Roanoke Island, Fort Raleigh is home to The Lost Colony Outdoor Drama. Along with some of the most stunning soundside views you’ll find in Manteo, this hidden gem features heaps of historical information. Fort Raleigh spans the history and culture of Roanoke Island. From the first locals, the Carolina Algonquians, to English settlers, and the iconic Freedmen’s Colony, there’s so much to learn while you and your pup take a much-deserved stroll around the grounds.
8. John’s Drive-In
This Outer Banks classic drive-in hotspot (open May-October) is located on the Beach Road (HWY. 12) in Kitty Hawk. Stop by this iconic shack and your canine friend can enjoy their very own special ice-cream “puppy cup.” Additionally, John’s is famous for their dolphin boats and super thick, creamy, and customizable milkshakes.
With all of these amazing pet-friendly Outer Banks spots, do we have your dog panting with excitement yet?
Vacations are a time for relaxation, family time and exploring, but some vacationers don’t like to sacrifice their healthy eating and active lifestyle while on a week long trip. We’ve created a list of the Top 10 Tips for Healthy Living At The Beach for those who want to indulge in the local cuisine and activities while staying healthy.
1 // Get your Vitamin D
The act of visiting the beach itself is a boost to your senses and mind. Yes, the basics hold true: sunshine decreases depression and sand is a natural exfoliant. The sun helps boost vitamin D production in your body which aids in bone health, organ function, and more! Just don’t forget the sunscreen!
2 // Take A Walk on the Beach
You’ve come to the Outer Banks to soak up the sun and spend some well needed time breathing in the salt air. A walk on the beach isn’t just good for your physical health, but it can give you great mental clarity too! It’s a super easy way to burn a few extra calories first thing in the morning or right before it’s time for bed!
3 // Eat Local
It’s easy to find great healthy options at Outer Banks restaurants thanks to the wild caught seafood harvested off of our shores. For example, here, the FreshFit Cafe has fast food options that beat anything found in your typical food court – featuring locally caught seafood, seasonal fruit and vegetables, and vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free meals.
4 // Take Some Time To Sight See
With multiple lighthouses from Corolla to Hatteras, the Wright Brothers Memorial, and Jockeys Ridge, you won’t run out of places to visit. These Outer Banks must see sights all require a lot of walking around, up and down dunes, and in some cases 220 stairs, so you can get your steps in while taking in the landmarks.
5 // Nosh On A Smoothie Bowl
Located in Nags Head and Kitty Hawk, at The Spot you can choose from a selection of smoothie bowls, or you can build your own. A refreshing and filling alternative to ice cream on a hot day, this healthy treat is packed with fruits that give a boost your energy level and lets you take on the rest of your beach day.
6 // Stay Healthy With A Water Sport
Get active with your family- with water all around you, you can choose from a variety or water sports while visiting the Outer Banks. Ocean Atlantic Rentals has kayaks, surfboards, etc that you can rent. Pay a little extra and they’ll even deliver to your house!
7 // Try A Yoga Class
What better way to relax and recharge than a yoga class on the beach? Yoga studios on the Outer Banks like Village Yoga offer a wide array of classes for everyone from beginner to the advanced yogi!
8 // Take A Bike Ride
On the next family outing, grab a bike instead of driving! By opting to ride bikes you get to work up an appetite for that local restaurant you’re heading to, and enjoy the awesome OBX weather while using this alternative method of transportation.
9 // Try A Healthy Drink
An all natural juice bar and eatery, this charming Corolla cottage is behind the bookstore in the Historic Corolla Village. This take out only restaurant also has a garden they encourage their visitors to admire, displaying some of their ingredients grown on site.
10 // Take A Hike
While most people don’t think of the woods when they think of the OBX, we actually have a huge Preserve protected by the Nature Conservancy. This hidden gem is comprised of over 1400 acres of woods, marshes, and little soundfront beaches, with 7 various trails for hiking.
Looking for a healthy getaway? We’ve got you covered with vacation homes for everyone! Browse rentals here.
Thanksgiving is right around the corner and you know what that means; time to gobble ’til you wobble! Certainly, if you and your family are planning on coming to the Outer Banks this Thanksgiving, you deserve an amazing vacation home. A place where you can spend quality time hanging out on the couch and cooking Thanksgiving Dinner in the kitchen! Check out these 5 homes that have amazing kitchens, plus, they’re still available to book for your Thanksgiving getaway today!
1554 // Lay By The Sound – Corolla
Lay By The Sound is the perfect soundfront home for Thanksgiving! This 7 bedroom house can hold 16 of your dearest family members for your Thanksgiving by the sea. The beautiful, newly constructed home boasts an aesthetic kitchen. You’ll certainly want to photograph your Thanksgiving spread before you dig in.
1042 // The Princess Tide – Corolla
Get a little slice of paradise (and pie) this Thanksgiving at The Princess Tide! This 6 bedroom home combines comfort with style. Ample seating and an open kitchen and dining layout provide the perfect setting for you and your crew. Clean up is easy in the large farmhouse kitchen sink.
1557 // Westover Sunset – Corolla
Rest and relax at Westover Sunset with your family in this soundfront home for your Thanksgiving vacation! With room for 12, this home has the views and decor to make this holiday season special.
4919 // The Leonardo – Kitty Hawk
Relax in comfort at The Leonardo! This soundside home comfortably sleeps 8 people, so during your stay, your family can enjoy the many amenities The Leonardo offers. This kitchen is well equipped in order to give the chef of the family everything they need this Thanksgiving season!
7015 // Nirvana – Rodanthe
Nirvana has a grand kitchen for the chef of your family. Make Thanksgiving dinner with tons of counter space to prepare and serve. Plus, the views of the ocean from the living room, dining room, and kitchen provide an amazing backdrop for the rest of the family to enjoy an unforgettable Thanksgiving.
After a hot, busy summer, some of us are longing for a cooler, simpler season… fall. Everyone looks forward to the first day of fall. It’s the first day where you can pull out your boots, scarfs, and flannel shirts, and begin stocking your home with all the pumpkin flavored items your heart desires. Even though summer gets all the glory on the Outer Banks, fall is a hidden secret among locals, who claim it to be their favorite time of year. The island feels more at ease with less crowds and more beach to enjoy. Check out our Top 10 reasons to visit the OBX this fall and see why you should plan an OBX getaway this fall.
1 // Less Traffic
School is back in session and families are getting back to their yearly routine. The summer travelers have come and gone, making it much easier to get to the beach, your favorite Outer Banks restaurants, and local attractions. Spend less time in the car and more time enjoying all your favorite OBX spots.
2 // More Beach & Great Weather
Less traffic, of course, equals more beach for you! Finding a spot to spread out your beach blanket is easier than ever. There is plenty of room to surf fish, paddle board, surf, or just sit and relax. The cooler temperatures in the 70s make it more enjoyable to kick back and enjoy a good book in your beach chair.
3 // Better Fishing
Local fishermen don’t want to give away this secret, but fall is the best time to go fishing on the Outer Banks. A variety of fish begin to migrate from west to the east coast in the fall, so there are more fish in the sea for you to reel in. White marlin, sailfish, and tuna are plentiful for the offshore angler. Inshore, pier, and surf fishing are also promising if you’re looking to fill up your cooler with Spanish and king mackerel, bluefish, red drum, cobia, trout, mullet, and puppy drum.
4 // Better Surfing
Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just enjoy watching from the shore, fall is when the waves get bigger and the surfing is at an all-time high. Windswells, north, south, and east swells and light westerly winds make for great surfing conditions, especially on Hatteras Island. If you’re no Kelly Slater, you can still enjoy watching as the best amateur surfers at the Easterns surf competition at Jennette’s Pier, that takes place every fall.
5. Better Dining Experience
Were you craving a jerk burger from Tortugas’s Lie this summer, but couldn’t take the wait? Now is your chance to visit your favorite OBX restaurants and grub on your favorite dishes before some places close for the winter. Many restaurants offer discounts and specialty menus during the fall so you can try something new at an even better price.
6 // Shorter Lines at Popular OBX Attractions
Leisurely climb the lighthouses and visit the Wright Brother’s Memorial without feeling the rush of the crowd. You can finally take you time to soak in the history and the beauty of these famous local attractions.
7 // Sales for the Shopper
Get a jump on your Christmas shopping this fall on the OBX. Many shops prepare to close for the off-season and offer wonderful deals on unique trinkets and gifts. Outlets Nags Head is also a don’t miss spot for Black Friday shopping and fall sales.
8 // Stunning Sunsets & Scenery
The change in temperature and weather conditions make for stunning sunsets that you just have to see in person. Vibrant colors of purple, orange, red, pink, and blue fill the evening sky and are the perfect way to end the day. Watch the sun set over the sound from the public soundfront piers and gazebos or from the sun decks of your soundfront vacation rental home.
9 // Fantastic Festivals & Events
From the foodie to the music lover, there is a special event for everyone to enjoy on the OBX this fall. The Easterns Surfing Championships, the Outer Banks Parade of Homes, Outer Banks Seafood Festival, and Duck Jazz Festival are just a few of the upcoming fall events that you don’t want to miss.
10 // Discounted Rates
A getaway to the OBX is incredibly affordable in the fall. Rental rates are heavily discounted in the off-season, which means you can stay in a great location for a fraction of the summer price. From Corolla to Hatteras Island, you have a wide selection of homes to choose from. Our Last Minute Offers page allows you to submit an offer (21 days or less prior to your arrival) for the chance to receive incredible savings on your trip. We always have homes on special on our Weekly Specials page too!
The OBX is yours for the taking this fall. Don’t miss the sights, sounds, and events that only happen this time of year. Book your fall getaway on the Outer Banks today!
The week is finally here! You have what feels like everything you could ever need packed into your vehicle, and the whole family is ecstatic that you’re finally driving to the Outer Banks to spend a vacation here. You have your weeks itinerary in hand and you can’t wait to start your weekend plans. We’re excited that you are excited to start your vacation, and we want to suggest that you check out some places on your drive here.
PS: Check out our other blog posts on things to do on the Outer Banks! Things to do in Manteo, Kitty Hawk, Hatteras Island, Kill Devil Hills Nags Head
95 South: If you’re coming down by through Currituck, here are three places you should stop at!
Grandy Greenhouse has a greenhouse with plenty of flowers, a farm market with some of the freshest local produce, and a gift shop. They have a lot of activities for younger kids, so a perfect place to stop and stretch your legs.
Kevin’s Gas Station
You might be asking, why would I want to go to this specific gas station? Trust us, you won’t regret stopping here. Right next store is Cindy’s Kitchen, and she sells an assortment of sweet treats. Her well-known dessert is her 12 Layer Cake, and it is so delicious! Check out this article published by Our State on Cindy’s Kitchen.
If you’re traveling with little kids, they will be mesmerized by the “big trucks”. Digger’s Dungeon is where the Grave Diggers started, and they have a few trucks you can look and take pictures with, and even offering rides in a Grave Digger.
US-64 E: Coming through Plymouth
Bojangles
“There is a big world out there, but you gotta get passed the Bojangles in Plymouth to see it!”
If you’re a fan of fried chicken and Southern Style Sweet Tea, you should stop and get some food at Bojangles! The Bojangles in Plymouth is the last one until you get to the beach, so be sure to stop and get you some!
Columbia Visitor Center
If you need a quick bathroom stop, be sure to stop at the Columbia Visitor Center. There is a lot of space to stretch your legs and is also right on the water.
95 North
Depending on where you’ll be driving from, you might be driving thru Fayetteville. If you find yourself in Fayetteville and are a J-Cole fan you see where it all started! His third album was called 2014 Forest Hills Drive, which is the address of his childhood home in Fayetteville.
If you’re passing through Rocky Mount, you should check out Rocky Mount City Lake and Park. This is a nice spot to stop and stretch your legs.
Hatteras Island; now better than ever with the new Marc Basnight Bridgeis full of plenty to do! If you only have a day to spend on this magical little strip of sand, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with our 24 Hours on Hatteras Island Guide!
EAT + DRINK
For breakfast…
Grab something on the go so you can get out and explore everything beautiful about Hatteras Island. Orange Blossom Bakery is our go to. With their famous Apple Uglies, coffee, and other amazing goods, this little local spot has our heart.
For Lunch…
We absolutely loveBros Sandwich Shack! Located in Avon, this local OBX eatery features burgers, sandwiches, and even a menu for lil bros (the kiddos.) The Cali Club with waffle fries is a must try. Oh, and make sure you get the Bros Buttermilk Ranch, the extra 50¢ is so worth it.
For Dinner…
Watermen’s Bar + Grill is the perfect combination of waterfront dining and experiencing night life on Hatteras Island. With entrées ranging from blackened local Mahi to an NC BBQ platter, there’s something that will please your whole crew. When the sun goes down, the music starts up! Listen and dance to live music and grab a drink from the rum bar or one of the many draft beers.
SHOP
The cool thing about Hatteras Island is the amount of cool, local vendors there are. Shopping in this little Outer Banks town is super unique. From picking pottery pieces from Red Drum Pottery to hand made surf boards at Natural Art Surf Shop, Hatteras Island is full of artisans and crafters that deserve recognition.
PLAY
The thing we absolutely love about Hatteras Island is the wide open beaches! Cape Hatteras National Seashore spans over 70 miles all the way to Ocracoke. The 4WD friendly (with permit) beaches are a source of endless hours of fun. When you’ve had enough beach time, you can climb the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. You can also take a visit to the Frisco Native American Museum.
