The Outer Banks of North Carolina is a chain of narrow barrier islands stretching 130 miles along the state's coastline — and one of the most unique coastal destinations on the East Coast. Unlike the crowded resort strips of Virginia Beach or Myrtle Beach, the Outer Banks offers wide, uncrowded beaches, a strong sense of place, world-class fishing, a surprisingly rich history, and a laid-back pace that makes it one of the best family vacation destinations in the country.
Top Things to Do on the Outer Banks
The Wright Brothers National Memorial at Kill Devil Hills marks the site where Orville and Wilbur Wright made the world's first successful powered airplane flights on December 17, 1903. The museum and memorial are excellent and the site carries genuine historical gravitas. The Cape Hatteras National Seashore protects 70 miles of pristine barrier island beach — some of the most beautiful and uncrowded oceanfront in the eastern US.
The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, at 198 feet the tallest brick lighthouse in the United States, is open for climbing during the summer months and offers spectacular views from the top. Ocracoke Island, accessible by free ferry from Hatteras, is one of the most charming and unspoiled island communities on the East Coast — the village has great restaurants, boutique shops, and the grave of the legendary pirate Blackbeard.
Water sports are central to the OBX experience. Kitty Hawk Kites offers hang gliding lessons on the massive sand dunes of Jockey's Ridge State Park — the tallest living sand dunes on the East Coast. Kiteboarding and windsurfing at Canadian Hole in Buxton are world-famous, and the offshore wrecks make the OBX one of the top wreck diving destinations on the East Coast.
What to Pack for the Outer Banks
The OBX is a beach destination — pack swimwear, beach gear, reef-safe sunscreen, and casual clothing. The VacationGrabs Leather Sling Bag is perfect for a beach day that ends with a seafood dinner at a waterfront restaurant. For the drive down or a week-long stay, pack the VacationGrabs Large Leather Travel Duffel — it holds everything for a full week at the beach with room for extras.
Book Outer Banks Tours and Experiences
Hang gliding lessons at Jockey's Ridge, dolphin watching cruises, lighthouse tours, and offshore fishing charters are among the most popular OBX experiences. Browse Outer Banks tours on Viator to plan your North Carolina beach vacation.
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