Outer Banks Watersports Events - 2025 Schedule

Spectators and active watersports fans alike are welcome to head out to the beach near Jennette’s Pier to catch a spectacular on-the-water show by some of the best skimboarders on the East Coast.

Come to the infamous Whalebone Junction and enjoy a specialty event with participating shops in the Whalebone shopping center! Join in on a scavenger hunt-style activity around the shops and enter to win a prize from Kitty Hawk Kites. Enjoy a slice from Benny Tesoro's, pick up a brew from Lost Colony Brewery, or go kayaking at Kitty Hawk Kites; spend the day with us and enjoy all the scenic bypass has to offer!

Known as one of the most highly anticipated surf contests on the Outer Banks as well as the East Coast, the WRV Outer Banks Pro Surf Contest is a thrill for participants and spectators alike, thanks to a stellar location in the town of Nags Head, and a world of talented riders competing for the title of OBX champ.

Surfers, filmmakers, movie buffs, nature fans, and curious visitors alike can all come together for an incredible film festival that celebrates all things aquatic. Presented by Cucalorus and the Dare County Arts Council, this three-day celebration of coastal North Carolina marine culture is sure to impress movie fans of all varieties, with an array of local and regional films that highlight life by the coastal waters.

Get a taste of the exceptional fall fishing on the Outer Banks from a new and on-the-water perspective at this September event that will appeal to experienced anglers and kayaking newcomers alike. The annual Outer Banks Kayak Fishing Tournament shines a spotlight on the sport of kayak fishing through a host of great prizes, exceptional fishing conditions, and plenty of fun enjoying the relaxed atmosphere and cool weather of autumn in the Outer Banks.

Enjoy a day at the Manteo waterfront and see wooden boats displayed in the water and on the grounds of the Roanoke Island Maritime Museum at this special event that pays homage to the region’s deep ties to maritime history and culture.

Head to Hatteras Island for one of the biggest windsurfing events in the country with the annual OBX-Wind Competition. Held on multiple days during one of the prime local seasons for wind-based watersports, this incredible series of events will entice windsurfers of all skill levels to meet and mingle with their colleagues, have some fun on the water, and enjoy a race or two that is truly challenging, engaging, and which can only be found on the Outer Banks.

Head to Hatteras Island for one of the biggest windsurfing events in the country with the annual OBX-Wind Competition. Held on multiple days during one of the prime local seasons for wind-based watersports, this incredible series of events will entice windsurfers of all skill levels to meet and mingle with their colleagues, have some fun on the water, and enjoy a race or two that is truly challenging, engaging, and which can only be found on the Outer Banks.