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Outer Banks Vacation Rental Homes

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Outer Banks Fishing Charters & Fishing Guide

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Outer Banks 2025 Vacation Planning Guide

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Jockey's Ridge State Park

Jockey's Ridge State Park is an unmistakable landmark for Nags Head vacationers and virtually everyone passing through along the main beach bypass, US 158. This park is marked by its towering sand dunes, which reach 80' - 100' feet tall and look more at home in a vast dessert than in a coastal beach town. These dues are barren, and made up of nothing but Outer Banks sand, providing an incredible playground for hang gliders, sand boarders, and anyone who doesn't mind a long hike and some incredible island-spanning views.

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Hatteras - Ocracoke Ferries

The Hatteras / Ocracoke ferry is one of the most popular of the seven coastal ferry routes that are orchestrated and managed by the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT.) Open for everyone, with daily runs that occur 365 days a year, the short 60 minute island-hopping ferry provides an integral link for Ocracoke Island to the rest of the Outer Banks, and provides visitors of all seasons with an exciting way to enjoy a coastal day trip. For a little bit of completely free entertainment, hop aboard via car, truck, bike or even just on foot, and discover a scenic boat ride that's just as thrilling as discovering the island of Ocracoke itself.

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Outer Banks Beaches Guide

Find your perfect beach, amenities, beach guidelines, and more. The Outer Banks is unique in that every beach community along the skinny chain of barrier islands is distinctive, with its own enticing atmosphere and long list of perks. From lifeguard stations in some of the most popular spots in town, to desolate shorelines where visitors won’t see another person for miles, it’s easy to pick a beach destination along the Outer Banks that perfectly suits a family’s vacationing style.

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Outer Banks Dolphin Guide

Like an unexpected gift, the sighting of dolphins along the Outer Banks delights and amuses many summer visitors. Many people view these chance encounters as a treasured highlight to a relaxing vacation and will happily spend hours observing the dolphins' antics. What few people realize is that they are likely viewing the same group of dolphins, day after day and summer after summer. Some bottlenose dolphins will spend their summers in the waters of the Outer Banks and then migrate south for the winter only to return again in the early summer the next year. This early migration has led some people to call them the "Retirees of the Sea."

Outer Banks Nature Spots

Outer Banks Nature Spots

With 150 miles of pristine coastline, and some of the East Coast's largest swaths of undisturbed maritime forest, the Outer Banks is a popular destination for nature lovers. As an important spot on America's "Flyway," which is the route that migrating birds take on their northern and southern treks across the country, the Outer Banks is the temporary home to hundreds of species of birds. Combine this with the number of deer, foxes, waterfowl, fish, turtles, and even alligators, and it's clear that the Outer Banks is truly a wild vacation destination.

Duck Jazz Festival

Duck Jazz Festival

October 9th, 2025 - October 12th, 2025

This year, the Duck Jazz Festival proudly reaches its 16th anniversary, and with it, we unveil our artistic vision:“Duck Grooves: The Sound of Jazz,” is an electrifying celebration of jazz’s dynamic, ever-evolving nature, set against the stunning backdrop of the Currituck Sound. It’s a fusion of past, present, and future, where the timeless traditions of jazz intersect with the vibrancy of new, innovative sounds. Just as the sound of jazz flows and adapts, so too does the landscape of Duck where the rhythm of the music harmonizes with the natural beauty of the water and the surrounding environment.

Elizabeth II

Elizabeth II

Anyone with a fascination of history and America's European roots will love a day exploring the Elizabeth II, a historic 16th century sailing vessel that is docked along the borders of the Roanoke Island Festival Park. This ship can be admired by virtually anyone who takes a stroll along the downtown Manteo waterfront, as it sticks out like a sore thumb amidst the modern day sail boats, yachts, and fishing boats that are docked nearby. The wooden exterior and brightly colored Tudor flags sail in the breeze, and the sight of the resting ship certainly feels like a step back in time.

Duck Corolla Parasail

Duck Corolla Parasail

Discover the beauty of the Outer Banks with Duck Parasail. Duck Parasail is proud to partner with Corolla Parasail and together, they take pride in being the longest running, family owned and operated parasail company on the Outer Banks. Duck Parasail is the only company running a FLEET of US Coast Guard Certified and Inspected 12 passenger Ocean Pros on the Outer Banks, with boats leaving from the North Beach (Currituck) Lighthouse, Corolla, and Duck.

Kitty Hawk Kites

Kitty Hawk Kites

Looking to fly a kite on the beach or atop the spectacular dunes of Jockey’s Ridge State Park? Kitty Hawk Kites offers the largest selection of kites, wind art, flags, games, and toys on the Outer Banks, with experts on staff to get you flying … or playing … in no time! Always dreamed of being a mermaid? Kitty Hawk Kites carries Fin Fun Mermaid Tails and also offers Mermaid Swim Lessons too! Kitty Hawk Kites also produces more than 20 events annually, including several kite festivals on the Outer Banks.

(More Locations)
Awful Arthur's Oyster Bar

Awful Arthur's Oyster Bar

Welcome to the home of the happy oyster where for over 40 years the oyster has been our world. The Outer Banks only authentic oyster bar is the place to enjoy sensational fare from the sea washed down with your favorite brew or cocktail. We serve by the peck, pound, and dozen, raw or steamed to perfection. Kicked back casual, down to earth friendly staff, and reasonable prices make Awful Arthur’s Oyster Bar the all-time favorite of locals and travelers alike.

The idea wasn’t to set out and establish a new concept restaurant on the Outer Banks, but that’s exactly what Awful Arthur’s owner Jo Whitehead and her late husband, Jay, accomplished more than 35 years ago when they opened the area’s first authentic oyster bar.

 

Awful Arthur’s opened in May 1984 on the Outer Banks. “We embraced the concept of an authentic copper top bar with the idea of it being a major drawing card and it still is,” explains Whitehead. “I get oysters wherever they are local. We follow the warm waters.” 

 

Just across from the ocean, in Kill Devil Hills, oyster season is year-round at Awful Arthur’s. Diners can take a seat at the copper-topped bar to observe the staff shucking oysters, served raw or steamed, along with shrimp, crab legs and clams all steamed to perfection. 

 

It’s not just the raw bar that’s earned Awful Arthur’s both local and national recognition, including being named one of America’s greatest oyster bars by Coastal Living magazine. The restaurant is a seafood-lover’s paradise, offering the freshest catches available.

Oceanfront rental homes in Corolla, NC in early morning

Planning your Outer Banks vacation

The Outer Banks is a 100-mile long chain of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina known for its wide sandy beaches, lighthouses, and historical landmarks. Our islands are a popular vacation destination, with a range of activities available including swimming, surfing, fishing, and birdwatching. The Outer Banks are also home to the Wright Brothers National Memorial, commemorating the first successful powered airplane flight. The region has a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters.

Where to stay

Unlike many beach destinations, lodging options on the Outer Banks are dominated by vacation rental homes.Part of the charm of the Outer Banks is the unique experience each town offers. You can view our overview of each town on our Outer Banks Vacation Planning Guide. Virtually every town offers waterfront rental homes and a great assortment of activities & attractions.

Vacation Rentals - We have a list of the best vacation rental companies here. There are several thousand vacation rental homes in the Outer Banks. In fact, vacation rental homes are the most popular accommodation. We have indexed thousands of rental homes that you can't find on any of the national search sites.

Hotels - The Outer Banks also has several hotels (many oceanfront) from Corolla to Ocracoke. Check out our list here.

Campgrounds - Camping opportunities exist on Hatteras Island in the tri-villages, Frisco, and Buxton, and on Ocracoke Island.

When to go

Summer is the Outer Banks'' most popular season, but there are great reasons to visit all year.

Outer banks average monthly temperatures

Spring - April brings a warmer average 69 degree temperatures. Seasonal shops, restaurants and activity companies begin opening. Vacation rental homes are still a bargain, with lower rates until late May. The ocean remains brisk at around 60 degrees. Bird watching and fishing are popular activities in the early Spring.

Summer - High season - the most popular time of year. Book your accommodations early! As school lets out, families fill the Outer Banks for Summer vacation. Most vacation rental homes rent weekly and turn over on weekends. All restaurants, shops and activities are running full schedules, and the area is abuzz with activity. The #1 Outer Banks attraction is the beach, but it isn't densely crowded like hotel-heavy resort areas. Average high temperatures hover in the mid to high 80's. The ocean is refreshing, but not cold in the upper 70's.

Fall - September and October are fantastic in the Outer Banks. Most shops and restaurants are open. Temperatures hover in the mid 70's. Vacation rental homes and hotel pricing drops. Nothing is crowded. This is a popular time for wind surfers and kiteboarders, as well as nature enthusiasts and visitors seeking a relaxing retreat.

Winter - Winter is perfect for those wanting relaxation, seclusion and quiet. Core amenities like grocery stores remain open. The central towns of Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills and Nags Head offer the best opportunities for dining, shopping and entertainment. Carova, Corolla, Duck, Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands offer the most solitude. Hotel and rental home rates are generally the least expensive. Expect high temperatures in the mid 50's.

Favorite Outer Banks Activities

The Outer Banks offers activities for everyone. Here is a brief list of some of our favorites.

Corolla NC Beach

The Beach - The beach is the #1 attraction for Outer Banks visitors. Check out our Beaches Guide, Driving on the beach guide, and beach regulations guide.

Events - The Outer Banks is home to several music festivals, running events, water sports competitions, fishing tournaments, foodie festivals and parades. Check out our events calendar.

Amusements - Spend the day at a water park. Try a great miniature golf course. Play video games and sports. Try a rope course. Go karting.

NC Aquarium Roanoke Island

Educational Activities - Learn to surf, wind surf, kiteboard, sail, paddleboard, kayak or ride a horse. Take a tour to see the wild Spanish mustangs of Carova. See dolphins in their natural habitat. Visit the NC aquarium to learn about local aquatic life.

Corolla Wild Horse Tour

Tours - Have a local expert show you around. See wild horses or dolphins. Kayak to a wildlife refuge. Ride a horse along the beach. Parasail above the Currituck Sound. Try a deep sea fishing charter.

Historic Corolla Park

Parks - Climb a lighthouse, visit the Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education and see the sunset at Historic Corolla Park. Spend an afternoon climbing dunes or hang gliding at Jockey's Ridge State Park in Nags Head. Tour the beautiful Elizabethan Gardens in Manteo. Visit the grounds of the Wright Brother's National Memorial. Walk along the Currituck sound on the famous Duck Town Park boardwalk.

Nags Head Fishing Pier

Fishing piers - Take a walk out over the ocean from one of the Outer Banks fishing piers. Try your luck with some pier fishing.

Bodie Island Lighthouse

Lighthouses - Climb one of the Outer Banks' famous lighthouses. Currituck Beach Lighthouse, Bodie Island Lighthouse and Cape Hatteras Lighthouse all offer seasonal self-guided climbing tours.

Nags Head Woods Preserve

Spend time in nature - We recommend the Elizabeth Gardens, Jockey's Ridge State Park, Pea Island Wildlife Refuge, and the boardwalk at the Currituck Banks Coastal Estuarine Reserve in Corolla.

Whalehead at Historic Corolla Park

Learn the local history - Great spots include the Wright Brother's National Memorial, Outer Banks History Center, Roanoke Island Festival Park, Fort Raleigh, Chicamacomico Lifesaving Station, Frisco Native American Museum, one of the local lighthouses, the Club at Whalehead and the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum in Hatteras Village.

Duck Waterfront Shops Duck NC

Shop - The Outer Banks is home to hundreds of charming, boutique shops. Find that special item you can't find anywhere else. Highlights include Timbuck II in Corolla, the Waterfront Shops in Duck, and Outlets Nags Head.

Oregon Inlet Fishing Boats

Eat Fresh and Local - Many Outer Banks seafood restaurants serve today's local catch. It doesn't get any fresher. And don't miss out on our local NC produce. Or, have it delivered to your rental home. You're sure to have an unforgettable meal.

What to bring

For your rental home - Some rental homes include linens. Others do not. Check to see whether you'll need to bring your own bedding and towels. As for general supplies, we recommend packing (or buying locally upon arrival) soap, toilet paper, paper towels, food, snacks and condiments to get started. We also recommend a laptop or tablet so you can keep coming back to OuterBanks.com for more great ideas.

For the Beach - Check out our list of favorite beach umbrellas, carts and favorite beach games. If you are going to drive on the beaches, check out our 4x4 driving on the beach guide.

For everybody - Don't forget to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, a camera and your sense of adventure! Also, don't forget to check out our coupons page. Print or bookmark several offers and save money during your visit.

Don't bring it.. RENT it!

- Multiple equipment rental companies offer everything from bicycles, kayaks, carts, strollers, umbrellas, beach chairs, golf carts, grills, surf boards, body boards, paddleboards, linens, towels, and more!

Outer Banks on Netflix

Are you looking for filming location information on the popular Outer Banks series by Netflix? Although Outer Banks is set in a coastal Outer Banks town, it isn't filmed on the Outer Banks. Most of Netflix's filming locations for the series are in the Shem Creek and Mount Pleasant areas of South Carolina, adjacent to Charleston.

Outer Banks : Wicked Tuna

In the waters off the coast of North Carolina lies a world of adventure and competition brought vividly to life by the TV series "Wicked Tuna: Outer Banks." This captivating show, an offshoot of National Geographic's highly successful "Wicked Tuna," takes viewers into the heart of North Carolina's offshore fishing industry where skilled fishermen compete for the ocean's most prized giant bluefin tuna.

"Wicked Tuna Outer Banks" is a gripping narrative of man versus man & nature. The series showcases the challenges faced by fishermen as they navigate the often treacherous waters of the Atlantic. This isn't just fishing; it's a battle of endurance, skill, and strategy, and experience against fellow fishermen and the raw power of the sea.

The show features a diverse fleet, each with its unique character and crew, ranging from seasoned veterans to eager young newcomers. The captains, with their deep-seated knowledge of the ocean and its inhabitants, become the central personalities. They guide their crews through highs and lows, storms and calms, all in pursuit of bluefin tuna.

Read more about Wicked Tuna: Outer Banks here.

OuterBanks.com - Your official Outer Banks vacation resource

OuterBanks.com is the official website of the Outer Banks Visitors Guide Magazine. We're excited to share the best of the Outer Banks with your family!