Top reasons to visit Outer Banks
- Stunning Beaches: The Outer Banks boasts beautiful, sandy shores perfect for sunbathing and water activities.
- Iconic Lighthouses: Explore historic lighthouses that offer breathtaking views and insights into maritime history.
- Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy various activities like airboat eco-tours, horse tours, and thrilling nautical experiences.
- Charming Neighbourhoods: Discover quaint towns like Ocracoke Island, rich in local culture and charm.
- Family-Friendly Fun: The area is ideal for family vacations, with attractions for all ages, ensuring memorable experiences.
Find great hotels near Outer Banks
Discover the charm of the Outer Banks, where a variety of accommodation options await you. From cosy bed and breakfasts to pet-friendly hotels, there’s something for everyone seeking a beach adventure. Enjoy the comfort of vacation rentals and take in stunning reviews of local inns and hotels. Whether you’re after relaxation or excitement, the Outer Banks offers a welcoming retreat for every traveller.
- Surf Side Hotel: A budget-friendly gem situated only 8.0km from the Outer Banks, Surf Side Hotel is renowned for its outstanding guest rating of 9.6 out of 10. This hotel offers a laid-back beach experience, making it ideal for travellers seeking sun, sand, and surf. Guests appreciate the direct beach access, allowing for spontaneous seaside adventures. With its welcoming atmosphere and comfortable accommodations, Surf Side Hotel ensures a relaxing getaway for beach enthusiasts.
- Holiday Inn Express Nags Head Oceanfront by IHG: Located 11.3km from the Outer Banks, this hotel boasts a commendable guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. The Holiday Inn Express Nags Head Oceanfront caters to families looking for a beach holiday, offering direct access to the oceanfront. Families with children will find added amenities such as safety features and complimentary cribs. The hotel’s friendly atmosphere and family-focused services make it a sound choice for those travelling with little ones.
- Comfort Inn South Oceanfront: Situated 6.4km from the Outer Banks, Comfort Inn South Oceanfront is perfect for families and pet owners alike. This budget-friendly hotel combines beach access with family-friendly amenities, boasting the ability to accommodate pets. With a focus on comfort, the property features free cribs and a welcoming environment for dogs and cats. Guests enjoy the blend of relaxation and convenience, making it a suitable option for those seeking a family vacation with their furry friends.
Where to stay near Outer Banks
The Outer Banks, a stunning chain of barrier islands, is the perfect destination for a beachside getaway. Here, you can immerse yourself in the rich history, explore charming neighbourhoods, and enjoy family-friendly outdoor activities. From the iconic sand dunes to the inviting shores, the Outer Banks offers a unique experience that blends relaxation with adventure. Discover the captivating atmosphere that makes this region a must-visit for any traveller seeking sun-soaked fun and memorable excursions.
- Nags Head: Nestled approximately 14.5km from the Outer Banks, Nags Head is a vibrant city that boasts a moderate influx of travellers year-round, with peak seasons from May to July. Visitors flock here for its stunning beaches and outdoor family activities. You can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk, challenge yourself at local golf courses, or explore recreational areas perfect for all ages. Notable landmarks include the inviting family beach and nearby nature reserves, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and adventure.
- South Nags Head: Located a mere 1.4km from the Outer Banks, South Nags Head is a charming neighbourhood that sees seasonal visitor traffic, especially bustling from June to August. This area is perfect for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike, offering a plethora of outdoor activities. The boardwalk and golf venues provide ample opportunities for fun, while the local marina invites you to enjoy water sports and fishing. With its picturesque beaches and family-friendly atmosphere, South Nags Head promises a delightful getaway.
- Manteo: Situated around 11.3km from the Outer Banks, Manteo is a quaint city that attracts visitors with its blend of outdoor adventures and beach experiences. Traveller numbers peak in April and from June to July, showcasing its popularity as a holiday destination. In Manteo, you can explore the boardwalk, relax in recreational areas, or catch a show at the local theatre. The nearby marina and stunning beaches create a perfect backdrop for a memorable vacation, whether you're seeking relaxation or excitement.
Things to do in Outer Banks
Shopping
The Outer Banks offers a variety of shopping experiences, from local boutiques to souvenir shops. Visit the Tanger Outlets in Nags Head for brand-name bargains, or explore the charming shops in Corolla and Duck for unique gifts and handmade crafts. Enjoy the coastal charm while you shop.
Recreation
The Outer Banks offers a range of wellness retreats, including tranquil yoga sessions on the beach, rejuvenating spa treatments featuring local ingredients, and meditation workshops amidst stunning coastal scenery. Enjoy leisurely bike rides along scenic paths or explore nature trails that inspire relaxation and connection with the beautiful surroundings.
Adventure
Experience the thrill of kiteboarding at Jockey's Ridge State Park, where soaring sand dunes meet the ocean breeze. For an adrenaline rush, try hang gliding from the tallest dunes in the Eastern U.S., offering breathtaking views and an exhilarating flight over the coastline.
Nightlife
In Outer Banks, the nightlife is vibrant with live music at The Pit, where local bands create a lively atmosphere. The Outer Banks Brewing Station offers craft brews alongside tasty bites, while the iconic Kelly’s Restaurant features dancing and events that keep the energy high into the night.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Outer Banks
For a budget-friendly trip to the Outer Banks, consider visiting between December and February when hotel rates are lowest. Book your accommodation about a month in advance or explore last-minute deals on Expedia for potential savings. Tuesdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Fridays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia's filters to find eco-friendly stays and package deals that combine flights and activities for extra savings. Additionally, take advantage of free outdoor activities like beachcombing and exploring nature reserves to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The hotel pricing around Outer Banks is moderately seasonal. The cheapest months to stay around Outer Banks are December to February, where the prices are moderately lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are moderately higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Outer Banks is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Outer Banks is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Outer Banks is Friday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search wizard to refine your options based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save some cash by combining your Outer Banks accommodation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions near Outer Banks
Outer Banks, North Carolina, is a fantastic destination for beach and family holidays, offering a range of attractions like marinas, historic lighthouses, and jetties. Whether you seek culture, adventure, or outdoor experiences, you’ll find plenty to explore, including Ocracoke Island and Southern Shores. With its stunning coastline and vibrant local culture, Outer Banks promises a memorable getaway for all types of travellers.
- Bodie Island Lighthouse: Standing tall at 3.2km from Outer Banks, Bodie Island Lighthouse offers a glimpse into maritime history. Its striking black and white striped tower, surrounded by natural beauty, invites visitors to explore its cultural significance and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding wetlands.
- Jennette's Pier: Located 6.4km from Outer Banks, Jennette's Pier is a family-friendly destination where you can fish, stroll the jetty, or simply relax by the water. The welcoming atmosphere fosters connection among visitors, making it an ideal spot for families to bond and enjoy the seaside.
- Oregon Inlet Fishing Center: A hub for adventure, this marina, situated 6.4km away, caters to fishing enthusiasts and outdoor lovers alike. With easy access to the ocean, it offers thrilling fishing charters and the chance to experience the vibrant beach environment.
Best time to go to Outer Banks
The best time to visit Outer Banks is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.