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

    Sandbar Boat Party in Waves NC with Water Slide

    Host a private 3-hour floating party with slide, SUP and water toys on a sandbar

    4.9 623 reviews

    Sea Dream: Cape Hatteras Offshore Fishing Charter

    Fish offshore from Hatteras on a USCG-licensed 45 ft charter with 4, 8 & 12 hour options for up to six guests

    4.6 9 reviews
    $1,750

    Magic Bus Rental for Private Events

    Celebrate on a renovated activity bus with TV, Bluetooth sound, LED lights, and seating for up to 20

    4.9 510 reviews

    The Beachin' Bus Private Transportation Rental

    Ride a one-of-a-kind art bus for private group transport in the Outer Banks

    4.9 510 reviews

    Pamlico Sound Jet Ski Rental in Waves, NC

    Feel the thrill of speeding across Pamlico Sound on a high-performance jet ski

    4.9 623 reviews

    Learn Kite Control Skills on Hatteras Beach

    Learn essential kite control skills in a focused 2.5-hour beach and water session.

    4.8 40 reviews

    4-Hour Kiteboarding Rental in Waves, NC

    Enjoy four hours of wind-powered fun with quality gear from a waterfront shop

    4.8 40 reviews
    $45/ rental

    Safe Family Tubing with Expert Captain in Salvo

    Bounce across Salvo’s waves on a safe, captain-led tubing ride for all ages.

    5.0 70 reviews

    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.

    5.0 81 reviews

    2Hr Guided Clear Kayak & Lighthouse Tour

    Paddle crystal-clear kayaks near Bodie Island Lighthouse and spot coastal wildlife on a relaxed 2-hour guided tour.

    5.0 81 reviews
    $50/ person

    2-Hour Dolphin & Wildlife Cruise on Roanoke Sound

    Spot playful bottlenose dolphins and coastal birdlife on a scenic 2-hour Roanoke Sound cruise

    4.9 488 reviews
    $22/ person

    Pontoon Boat Rental in Nags Head

    Captain your own pontoon and explore Nags Head waters with fuel included

    4.9 898 reviews
    $259/ pontoon

    16-Person Pontoon Boat Rental

    Cruise the Outer Banks in a fully equipped pontoon with fuel included

    4.9 898 reviews

    Private Dolphin and Scenic Boat Tour

    Spot dolphins and explore Bodie Island and Roanoke marshes on a private charter

    4.9 898 reviews

    Fishing Kayak Foot Peddles

    Enhance your fishing kayak rental with foot peddles for your full session

    4.9 898 reviews

    Fishing Rod Rental for Pontoon, Skiff, or Fishing Kayak

    Add a Penn Battle 2 combo to your pontoon, skiff, or fishing kayak rental

    4.9 898 reviews
    $25/ rod

    Outer Banks Jet Ski Rental

    Ride a jet ski and explore the Outer Banks from the water

    4.9 898 reviews
    $75/ jet ski

    Parasailing Flights Over the Outer Banks

    Soar up to 400 ft with views of Roanoke Sound and Jockeys Ridge

    4.9 898 reviews
    $35/ flight

    Private Tubing Charter on the Outer Banks

    Ride a private boat and tube at your pace with USCG-licensed captains

    4.9 898 reviews
    $155/ boat

    Private 3-Hour Catamaran Sunset Cruise Manteo

    Savor a private 3-hour sunset cruise for up to six on the Roanoke Sound

    5.0 40 reviews

    Outer Banks Private Catamaran Sail for 6 Guests

    Sail Roanoke Sound on a 40-foot catamaran with up to 6 guests for a relaxed, private cruise

    5.0 40 reviews

    Manteo Ghost Tour with Lanterns & OBX Legends

    Hear chilling Outer Banks legends on a family-friendly evening walk through historic Manteo.

    4.8 794 reviews
    $22/ person

    Manteo Candlelight History Tour with Police Chief

    Discover 450 years of waterfront history on an entertaining evening walk with Manteo's retired police chief.

    4.7 19 reviews
    $15/ person

    Outer Banks Dolphin Watching Cruise with Captain

    Spot playful bottlenose dolphins on a relaxed two-hour cruise with engaging commentary from your captain

    4.9 488 reviews
    $10/ person

    Morning Dolphin Watch Cruise on Roanoke Island

    Spot bottlenose dolphins during a relaxed two-hour protected-water cruise.

    4.9 488 reviews
    $10/ person

    Roanoke Island Dolphin Watching Sunset Cruise

    Spot playful bottlenose dolphins aboard The Captain Johnny while enjoying an Outer Banks sunset.

    4.9 488 reviews
    $10/ person

    In-Home Experiences

    Private In Home Massage in Outer Banks

    Private In Home Massage in Outer Banks

    Elevate your Outer Banks getaway with a rejuvenating in-home massage.

    $149/ guest
    Private Chef Dinner Experience in Avon, NC

    Private Chef Dinner Experience in Avon, NC

    Indulge in a personalized culinary journey with Chef Nicole and her team, bringing globally inspired flavors to your Island retreat.

    5.0 18 reviews
    $175/ guest

    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.

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