Things to do in Roanoke Island

    Discover amazing Roanoke Island activities and premium in-home experiences.

    Roanoke Island captures the imagination with its deep historical roots and captivating landscapes, inviting visitors to explore a blend of rich heritage and natural beauty. Known for being the site of the mysterious Lost Colony, this charming destination offers an enticing mix of cultural tales, lush maritime forests, and serene waterways. Whether you're wandering through historic sites or enjoying a peaceful sunset paddle on Shallowbag Bay, Roanoke Island promises discovery at every turn.

    Popular Activities in Roanoke Island

    Magic Bus Rental for Private Events

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

    5.0 738 reviews

    The Beachin' Bus Private Transportation Rental

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

    5.0 738 reviews

    E-Bike Rental in Kill Devil Hills (10 Hours)

    Ride farther with pedal assist on a 10-hour Outer Banks rental

    5.0 32 reviews
    $51/ bike

    Kitty Hawk Maritime Forest and Marsh Kayak Tour

    Paddle calm, sheltered waters to spot wildlife in Kitty Hawk's rare maritime forest

    4.9 1.2K reviews

    Kitty Hawk Maritime Forest & Marsh Kayak Tour

    Paddle calm creeks in Kitty Hawk Woods and spot osprey in a relaxed, beginner-friendly tour

    5.0 1.1K reviews
    $58/ kayak

    Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge Kayak Tour

    Paddle blackwater creeks to spot wildlife and possibly hear red wolves

    5.0 1.1K reviews
    $69/ kayak

    Pamlico Sound Jet Ski Rental in Waves, NC

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

    4.9 622 reviews

    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

    4.9 622 reviews

    Outer Banks Big Mama 115HP Yamaha Boat Rental

    Explore the Pamlico Sound at your own pace with fuel and safety gear included

    4.9 622 reviews
    $924/ boat

    Tritan 140HP Suzuki Boat Rental

    Power across the Outer Banks with fuel and safety gear included

    4.9 622 reviews
    $1,016/ boat

    Outer Banks Carolina Skiff 26' Yamaha 115hp Boat Rental

    Flexible 3-hour to 7-day rental with fuel and safety gear included

    4.9 622 reviews
    $838/ boat

    Black Pearl Boat Rental with 70HP Suzuki for Up to 10

    Explore the Outer Banks at your own pace with fuel and PFDs included

    4.9 622 reviews

    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

    Outer Banks 1-Hour Airboat Tour

    Discover Outer Banks wildlife and history on a customizable 1-hour airboat ride with two scenic stops

    5.0 738 reviews
    $71/ person

    Outer Banks 1.5-Hour Airboat Eco Tour

    Cover 23 miles with stops at sandbars and a private island for unique photo ops

    5.0 738 reviews
    $98/ person

    Private Catamaran Sailing Tour from Manteo

    Enjoy scenic Roanoke and Albemarle Sounds on a comfortable 40' catamaran

    5.0 738 reviews

    Outer Banks 2-Hour Airboat Eco Tour

    Make four stops to explore sandbars and private islands few visitors reach

    5.0 738 reviews
    $119/ person

    Alligator River Refuge Bear & Wildlife Tour on the Magic Bus

    Discover wildlife with a certified guide on a 2–2.5 hour eco bus tour, ideal for families and groups up to 18

    5.0 738 reviews
    $71/ person

    Kayak Rental on the Roanoke Sound

    Explore marshes and islands on calm sound-side waters at your own pace

    5.0 738 reviews

    Sea Doo Jet Ski Rental: 1 Hour

    Ride brand-new Sea Doo GTX jet skis on a marked course for fast fun or a relaxed cruise

    5.0 738 reviews
    $119/ jetski

    Outer Banks Sea-Doo Jet Ski Guided Tour

    Ride brand-new 2025 Sea-Doos across Roanoke and Pamlico Sounds to spot wildlife and scenic landmarks

    5.0 738 reviews
    $201/ jet ski

    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
    $25/ 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
    $11/ person

    Morning Dolphin Watch Cruise on Roanoke Island

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

    4.9 488 reviews
    $11/ 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
    $11/ person

    Pontoon Boat Rental in Nags Head

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

    4.9 898 reviews

    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

    Outer Banks Jet Ski Rental

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

    4.9 898 reviews

    Parasailing Flights Over the Outer Banks

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

    4.9 898 reviews

    Private Tubing Charter on the Outer Banks

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

    4.9 898 reviews

    Roanoke Sound Jet Ski Tour

    Follow a guide across the Outer Banks, spotting dolphins and wildlife along Cape Hatteras National Seashore

    4.9 898 reviews
    $205/ jetski

    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
    $23/ person

    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
    $58/ person

    Private Charter on OBX Tiki Time Pontoon Boat

    Reserve the tiki pontoon for your group's dolphin cruise or special event

    5.0 273 reviews
    $1,482

    Pine Island Audubon Sanctuary Kayak Tour

    Paddle secluded marsh trails in an exclusive Audubon sanctuary with a guide

    5.0 1.1K reviews
    $74/ kayak

    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

    In-Home Experiences

    Outer Banks Private Chef with French Cuisine

    Outer Banks Private Chef with French Cuisine

    Elevate your coastal stay with a private chef experience that blends French finesse with fresh, local flavor—served right in your vacation home.

    5.0 50 reviews
    $175/ guest
    Private Yoga Session at Your Kitty Hawk Rental

    Private Yoga Session at Your Kitty Hawk Rental

    Elevate your vacation rental stay with personalized, in-home yoga sessions tailored just for you.

    4.9 35 reviews
    $199/ session
    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.

    $156/ guest

    Explore the Wonders of Roanoke Island

    Roanoke Island offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that sets it apart from other destinations. Known for its pivotal role in early American history as the site of the mysterious Lost Colony, this charming island invites visitors to step back in time while enjoying modern-day adventures. The Elizabethan Gardens provide a tranquil escape with their vibrant blooms and lush greenery—a perfect spot for leisurely strolls or quiet reflection.

    For those seeking adventure, Roanoke Island doesn't disappoint. You can embark on kayaking excursions through serene waterways or try your hand at fishing along the picturesque shores. A visit to Festival Park brings history alive with interactive exhibits and live performances depicting life during colonial times. As you explore downtown Manteo's quaint shops and eateries, you'll find local crafts and fresh seafood dishes that capture the essence of coastal living.

    Whether you're exploring maritime forests or soaking up stories from friendly locals over coffee at an inviting café, Roanoke Island promises memorable experiences around every corner. It's not just about where you go—it's how each moment feels like stepping into a storybook filled with charm and discovery.

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