Things to do in Outer Banks
Discover amazing Outer Banks activities and premium in-home experiences.
Spanning miles of unspoiled coastline, Outer Banks is a captivating haven where golden sands and rolling waves create the perfect backdrop for adventure and relaxation. Known for its charming lighthouses, vibrant marine life, and rich history steeped in tales of shipwrecks and pirates, this destination invites you to explore its unique blend of natural beauty and storied past. Whether you're surfing at sunrise or enjoying fresh seafood with an ocean view, Outer Banks offers an unforgettable escape into coastal splendor.
Popular Activities in Outer Banks
Pirate-Themed Tiki Pontoon Boat Rental
Host a private 3-hour floating party with slide, SUP and water toys on a sandbar
Pamlico Sound Jet Ski Rental
Feel the thrill of speeding across Pamlico Sound on a high-performance jet ski
Introductory Kiteboarding Lesson for First-Timers
Learn essential kite control skills in a focused 2.5-hour beach and water session.
Half-Day Wing Foil and Windsurfing Rental
Enjoy four hours of wind-powered fun with quality gear from a waterfront shop
Tubing Charter Adventure
Bounce across Salvo’s waves on a safe, captain-led tubing ride for all ages.
Bodie Island Lighthouse Private Clear Kayak Tour
Paddle crystal-clear kayaks through Roanoke Sound for a personalized view of Bodie Island Lighthouse and local wildlife.
Bodie Island Lighthouse Clear Kayak Tour
Paddle crystal-clear kayaks near Bodie Island Lighthouse and spot coastal wildlife on a relaxed 2-hour guided tour.
Outer Banks Dolphin Cruise on Roanoke Sound
Spot playful bottlenose dolphins and coastal birdlife on a scenic 2-hour Roanoke Sound cruise
Private Catamaran Sailing Tour in Outer Banks
Glide across Roanoke Sound for three hours aboard a spacious 40-foot catamaran, spotting dolphins and seabirds along the way.
Private Sunset Sail in the Outer Banks
Sail a 40-foot catamaran at dusk for a serene, private experience on Roanoke Sound.
Lantern-Lit Ghost Tour of Downtown Manteo
Hear chilling Outer Banks legends on a family-friendly evening walk through historic Manteo.
Manteo Historic Candlelight Walking Tour
Discover 450 years of waterfront history on an entertaining evening walk with Manteo's retired police chief.
Sunset Dolphin Watch Cruise
Spot playful bottlenose dolphins aboard The Captain Johnny while enjoying an Outer Banks sunset.
Afternoon Dolphin Watching Cruise in Outer Banks
Spot playful bottlenose dolphins on a relaxed two-hour cruise with engaging commentary from your captain
Morning Dolphin Watch Cruise
Spot bottlenose dolphins during a relaxed two-hour protected-water cruise.
In-Home Experiences
Private In‑Home Massage
Elevate your Outer Banks getaway with a rejuvenating in-home massage.
Experience the Magic of Outer Banks
The Outer Banks is a string of barrier islands offering a unique blend of history, adventure, and natural beauty. Known for its pristine beaches and charming coastal towns, this destination invites visitors to explore miles of sandy shores and rolling dunes. The area's rich maritime heritage comes alive in places like the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kill Devil Hills or through tales at local lighthouses such as Cape Hatteras Lighthouse.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to love here. From kiteboarding on Pamlico Sound to fishing off Jennette's Pier, there's no shortage of activities that connect you with nature. For those who prefer land-based adventures, hiking trails abound in Nags Head Woods Preserve or Jockey’s Ridge State Park—home to the tallest sand dune system on the East Coast.
The Outer Banks stands out from nearby destinations with its laid-back vibe and untouched landscapes. It's an ideal spot for wildlife watching; catch sight of wild horses roaming freely along Corolla Beach or visit Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge for birdwatching opportunities year-round. Whether you're savoring fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant or simply enjoying sunset views over Currituck Sound, every moment spent here feels special and uniquely tied to this beautiful stretch of coastline.