The Outer Banks is so much more than just a beach destination. Its lively ecosystem is bursting with scenic salt marshes, winding nature trails, breathtaking wildlife, and of course, the main attraction…gorgeous, wide spread beaches. Outdoor lovers, this one is for you. We have mapped out the week for you with plenty of nature and wildlife to see and explore while visiting the Outer Banks.
DAY 1 – WILD HORSE TOUR
Meet the true locals, the wild Spanish mustangs, on the wide-spread beaches of Corolla and Carova. Take a 4X4 off-roading vehicle with a tour guide for a memorable day with lots of picture worthy moments. You’ll feel just as free has these wild horses with the wind in your hair and the smell of the fresh salt air as you see these beautiful creatures up close.
Wild Horse Adventure Tours
610 Currituck Clubhouse Drive
Corolla, NC 27927
(252) 489-2020
Corolla Outback Adventures
1150 Ocean Trail
Corolla, NC 27927
(252) 453-4484
DAY 2 – COASTAL PLAIN HIKING IN THE SOUNDSIDE WOODS
Picture the sun shining through the tree canopy, birds flying over the marshes, fish and turtles jumping in the ponds, and cattails swaying in the breeze. This is the type of scenic coastal landscape you’ll discover when you hike through the wooded areas of the Outer Banks. We recommend Nags Head Woods and Kitty Hawk Woods Preserve for beautiful sights and sounds.
Nags Head Woods – Open dawn til dusk daily
701 West Ocean Acres Drive
Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948
(252) 441-2525
Kitty Hawk Woods Coastal Reserve
Access from Eckner Steet or The Woods Road
Kitty Hawk, NC 27949
(252) 261-8891
DAY 3 – VISITING THE NC AQUARIUM
Sharks, sea turtles, and sting rays are just a few of many marvelous sea creatures you’ll find at the NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island. Recently renovated, the aquarium offers several new exhibits and structural features for an even better experience. The aquarium is open daily from 9 am – 5 pm for the whole family to be enchanted by our underwater friends.
374 Airport Road
Manteo, NC 27954
(252) 475-2300
DAY 4 – BIRDWATCHING AND CANOEING ON PEA ISLAND
Located between Oregon Inlet Fishing Center and Rodanthe, Pea Island is a sanctuary for nature lovers. The 6,000 acre refuge is home to over 365 bird species and several turtle species. Enjoy access to the ocean, sound, nature trails, the iconic Life Saving Station, and the Visitors Center. For an up close view of the wildlife from the water, book a canoe tour during your visit.
15440 NC Hwy 12
Rodanthe, NC 27968
DAY 5 – OUTER BANKS CENTER FOR WILDLIFE EDUCATION
On the grounds of Currituck Heritage Park is the inactive and informative Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education. Here you can learn more about the Outer Banks’ coastal environment and historical artifacts from Currituck County. Check out the local fish and other species from the area in the 8,000 gallon aquarium tank. After learning about the local habitat, experience it firsthand by take a journey down one of the 4 nature trails nearby.
1160 Village Lane
Corolla, NC 27927
(252) 453-0221
DAY 6 – DOLPHIN CRUISE
You don’t have to visit the tropics to run into dolphins. Watch them swim and play in their natural habitat on a dolphin cruise in Nags Head. The captain will take you on a smooth ride around the Atlantic Ocean and introduce you to these friendly and stunning sea creatures.
Causeway Watersports
7649 S. Virginia Dare Trail
Nags Head, NC 27959
(252) 441-8875
DAY 7 – HORSEBACK RIDING ON HATTERAS ISLAND
Looking for a little adventure? Horseback riding along the beautiful beaches of Hatteras Island is an experience you won’t forget. Sign up for a riding session and take in the calming coastal views and wildlife on top of your noble steed.
52193 Piney Ridge Road
Frisco, NC 27936
(252) 995-4897
