The Best Things to Do on the Outer Banks with toddlers, babies, and young kids.
If you’re planning an Outer Banks vacation with little ones in tow, you’re probably wondering one thing: “Will there actually be enough to keep everyone happy?” The answer? Absolutely. The Outer Banks is one of the most family-friendly beach destinations on the East Coast.
Vacationing with babies and toddlers looks a little different than it did when it was just you and your friends from college. Fortunately, the Outer Banks is notoriously fun for all families, toddlers and young kids included. Between calm beaches, hands-on attractions, outdoor adventures, and plenty of kid-approved restaurants, there’s no shortage of ways to make lasting memories.
Whether you’re visiting with a baby, an energetic toddler, or elementary school-aged kids, here’s your guide to enjoying the Outer Banks stress-free.
Best Beaches for Young Kids
Not every beach access is created equal when you’re carrying beach toys, snacks, and a toddler who suddenly refuses to walk.
Beach accesses that offer bathrooms, outdoor showers, seasonal lifeguards, easy parking, and short walkovers are key to a successful beach day with kids.
Some family favorite beach accesses include Coquina Beach in South Nags Head and Bonnett Street Beach Access in Nags Head. For beach accesses near your rental property, check out Outer Banks Beach Access. Outer Banks Beach Access gives you information on all of the public beach accesses and their amenities from Corolla to Hatteras Island.
Parent Tip: Visit the beach early in the morning or after dinner for cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and happier little ones.
Rainy Day Activities
A little rain doesn’t have to ruin your vacation. We’ve got a few tried-and-true kid favorites for those rainy OBX days:
North Carolina Aquarium
Manteo, NC
Touch tanks, sea turtles, sharks, stingrays, and interactive exhibits make this a favorite for toddlers and preschoolers.
Outer Banks Bowling Center
Nags Head, NC
Great for older preschoolers and a fun break from the beach.
Duck Town Boardwalk
Duck, NC
Many shops welcome families, and the boardwalk itself is stroller-friendly.
Outdoor Adventures They’ll Actually Enjoy
Jockey’s Ridge State Park
Nags Head, NC
Kids love climbing the giant sand dunes, flying kites, and rolling down the hills. Jockey’s Ridge also features plenty of different free events happening year-round. Be sure to go early or near sunset when the sand isn’t as hot.
Elizabethan Gardens
Manteo, NC
The gardens have beautiful walking paths, butterflies, flowers, and plenty of room to explore. The Elizabethan Gardens also offer events and activities perfect for little ones.
Roanoke Island Festival Park
Manteo, NC
From live historical interpreters to open green spaces and an interactive museum, it’s the perfect space for kids!
Kid-Friendly Restaurants
Meals on vacation should be easy. Luckily, these restaurants are known for welcoming families:
The Dunes
Nags Head, NC
The Dunes is a breakfast favorite for adults and kids alike. With off menu ordering and a breakfast buffet, it’s the ultimate OBX restaurant stop.
Brewing Station
Kill Devil Hills, NC
With a large backyard, diverse menu, and live outdoor music regularly, Outer Banks Brewing Station is a great choice for families with little ones.
Nags Head Pizza
Nags Head, NC
Pizza is a fan favorite of toddlers and kids alike. Nags Head Pizza features fresh ingredients, great people, and an awesome outdoor dining area perfect for keeping the kids entertained during dinner.
Sweet Treat Stops
No beach vacation is complete without ice cream and a sweet treat.
Big Bucks Ice Cream
Corolla, NC
Easy Activities Back at Your Vacation Rental
Sometimes the best vacation memories happen at home. Many of Resort Realty’s vacation rentals feature:
- Theatre rooms for family movie night
- Spacious backyards for cornhole
- Board games & rec rooms for friendly competition
Tips for Vacationing with Babies & Toddlers
Pack more snacks than you think you’ll need.
Plan one “big” activity each day instead of filling every hour.
Head to the beach early or later in the evening.
Build in afternoon quiet time back at your vacation home.
Don’t stress about seeing everything. Some of the best vacation moments happen while digging holes in the sand.
Where to Stay
Traveling with young kids is easier when everyone has room to spread out.
Many Resort Realty vacation homes offer family-friendly amenities like private pools, fenced yards, fully equipped kitchens, multiple living spaces for naps and quiet time, and short walks to the beach.
Browse our family-friendly vacation rentals and start planning an Outer Banks getaway everyone will enjoy.
