Things to Do in the Outer Banks of North Carolina

Jake Lynell, shutterbug/Flickr.com

Whether it's a simple day trip or week-long hiatus to the lovely Outer Banks, these Carolina adventures are chop full of excitement and relaxation. Historic landmarks and diverse wildlife embellish the stunning beaches, while restaurants and bars adorn the streets. Pack the binoculars and an appetite for a memorable trip along the east coast's most prized landscape.

Outdoor Activities

Walking along Jockey's Ridge

Explore the sandy beaches and exceptional wildlife the rustic way on a Corolla Wild Horse Adventure Tour. Cruise alone in an open or close-top vehicle guided by the Outer Banks' local staff. If you'd rather choose your own routes and sites throughout Corolla's wondrous terrain, rent a Jeep and drive yourself on a tour.

Escape the bustle of North Carolina's mainland; ride the ferry to Ocracoke Island for an afternoon of jet-skiing and kayaking on Silver Lake. Rental companies are available on the island.

For a free and adventurous outing, climb up the towering dunes of Jockey's Ridge in Kitty Hawk, the east coast's tallest sand dune system.

www.wildhorsetour.com or (252) 489-2020
www.ocracokevillage.com
www.jockeysridgestatepark.com or (252) 441-7132

Dining

Shrimp kabab

Enjoy a classic breakfast or brunch at the Outer Banks' original Sam and Omie's Restaurant. Large, savory portions will leave you satisfied in the Carolina sunshine for hours.

Relax by the sunset at Miller's Waterfront Restaurant after a hot day at the beach with dinner options for everyone. Shrimp platters are strongly recommended!

Sam and Omie's
7228 S Virginia Dare Trl
Nags Head, NC 27959
(252) 441-7366
www.samandomies.net

Miller's Waterfront Restaurant
6916 S. Croatan Hwy
Nags Head, NC 27959
(252) 441-6151
www.millerswaterfront.com

Attractions

Visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kitty Hawk. Peruse the exhibits. Check out the full-scale reproductions of the gliders, and stand in the exact spot where the brothers first took flight.

Just 10 miles south of the memorial lies 70 miles of the Cape Hatteras National Sealine, a string of nationally-recognized beaches. Observe the land's diverse population of birds and dolphins with the Nags Head Dolphin Watch. Simply enjoy the smooth sands of the Outer Banks.

Wright Brothers National Memorial
www.nps.gov/wrbr

Nags Head Dolphin Watch
7517 S Virginia Dare Trl
Nags Head, NC 27959
(252) 449-8999
www.nagsheaddolphinwatch.com

Resources

The Outer Banks of North Carolina Official Site

Article Written By Katie Hedley

Katie Hedley is a Virginia native and recently earned her degree in arts management with a minor in Spanish at the College of Charleston. She specializes in outdoor and travel articles based on her experience around the world. Writing has become her medium to share her advice, opinions and ongoing adventures.

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