After a long winter, warmer weather is finally coming soon! If you’re anything like us, we’ve been dreaming of warm days lounging on the beach and hanging out at some of our favorite OBX spots. Start making plans to check out some of the best local hangout spots on the Outer Banks! Whether you’re looking for kid friendly fun, or some adult downtime, this is the ultimate guide for you! Besides, who knows the Outer Banks better than the locals?!

Art’s Place // Kitty Hawk

Locals love… their burgers (voted one of the best in North Carolina), the upstairs Bloody Mary and Mimosa bar, and the laid back vibe

Sam + Omie’s // Nags Head

Locals love… the amazing breakfast in the morning and their Blue Marlin cocktail in the evenings

Fish Heads // South Nags Head

Locals love… 15¢ shrimp from 4pm-6pm and Larry’s Lemonade

John’s Drive-In // Kitty Hawk

Locals love… any of the tasty milk shakes and the dolphin (mahi-mahi) boat

Corolla Beer Garden // Corolla

Locals love… the selection of over 60 craft beers, 17 rotating taps, and the dog and family friendly, laid back atmosphere

Outer Banks Brewing Station // Kill Devil Hills

Locals love… the great brunch menu, vast beer selection, and the playground for little ones

Watermen’s Bar + Grill // Waves

Locals love…the beautiful view, great drinks, and live bands

Tap Shack // Duck

Locals love… the family-friendly atmosphere, great line up of live music, and the beer and wine selection at the outdoor bar

TRiO // Kitty Hawk

Locals love… the vast array of wine, beer, and cheese, live music, and relaxing space

Captain Andy’s // Nags Head

Locals love… the frozen drinks and live entertainment at night

Mama Kwan’s // Kill Devil Hills

Locals love… the fish tacos (get them blackened) and the Wahini Wipe Out drink

Chilli Peppers // Kill Devil Hills

Locals love… the outside courtyard, live music, and world famous Bloody Mary’s

Mimi’s TIKI Hut // Manteo

Locals love… watching the boats come in after fishing and sipping on Mimi’s amazing mojitos (Pirate’s Paradise #5724 is the perfect home to hangout like the locals do; it’s literally a 5 minute walk away!)

Lucky 12 // Nags Head

Locals love… their famous pizza that’s served until 2 AM and 100 different draft, bottle, and canned beers

Blue Crab // CoLington 

Locals love… the stunning sunsets of the Kitty Hawk bay

Barefoot Bernie’s // Kitty Hawk

Locals love… the tropical cocktails and diverse food menu

Ocean Boulevard // Kitty Hawk

Locals love… the seasonally changing martinis and great, live music

Sundogs // Corolla

Locals love… the fresh seafood, live bands, DJ, and trivia nights