The Outer Banks are some of the most unsung scenic and relaxing tourist attractions for world travelers but popular among American travelers. It’s about time these worthy places get featured in Travel and Leisure and also in Conde Nast Traveler.
The Outer Banks are 200 mile long barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina state in the USA. They separate the Atlantic Ocean from the mainland. They make up most of the North Carolina coastline, with their state parks, shipwreck diving sites, and open sea beaches making them a must visit vacation destination. While you’re there you can buy some OBX Stuff like T-shirts.
One of the Outer Banks islands, Roanoke, is England’s first settlement site (led by Sir Walter Raleigh) in the New World.
Everyone has a unique picture of a perfect vacation. Some may cherish serenity, few people, and secluded spots. Others enjoy activities every hour and shopping. No matter what travel ideals you might have, the Outer Banks have something in store for you.
Corolla
If you desire seclusion with not much to do within a 15 miles radius, Corolla is the best fit for you. It has off the road beaches and wild horse tours, and has only a few shops and restaurants. Corolla takes the stress off city living, as long as you put your phone on silent mode and enjoy the tranquility for a few days.
If your family wants a bit of history, the Whale Head Club tells the story behind the Outer Banks and Corolla. Visit also the Currituck Lighthouse which still serves as a beacon of light to passing mariners. In the 19th century, hundreds of ships sunk in the unpredictable waters of the Outer Banks. Currituck Lighthouse was then built to make the place safer for passing aquatic vessels.
There are also resorts in Corolla which features a clubhouse, swimming pool, tennis and basketball courts as staples.
Duck
This is a busy hive of activity if you prefer several restaurants, coffee shops, shops, bookstore, and surf shop – all within walking distance. It has larger beaches and the local surf shop offers surfboard, paddle board, and bike rentals. If your family delights in fishing, you can book a charter trip with bait and tackle shops in Duck.
Southern Shores
This is the ultimate place for privacy in the Outer Banks. There is definitely no shop, restaurant, or activity that will disrupt your family’s peace and quiet. There is no public beach, so you can be assured you are sharing the Southern Shores coastline with only a few guests. Southern Shores is just a very short drive to both Duck and Kitty Hawk, so you can eat your meals in these places as long as you placed a reservation in advance.
Since the Outer Banks is a travelers destination with several beaches, let us recommend some for you.
Salvo Beach
One of the most beautiful beaches in the Outer Banks is Salvo Beach. There are not much activity or shops in the area, but the pleasant sandy shores of Salvo Beach is enough reason for your family to wander over to it.
Accommodation options here are privately owned homes for rent. Salvo Beach is also a popular destination for kiteboarding enthusiasts.
Nags Head
Features the classic Outer Banks culture – a mixture of beach bumming time and nearby delights like go kart tracks, ice cream shops, and mini golf courses. Nags Head is also popular for horseback riding.
Just as mentioned, the beach is splendid, but make time for several other options in Nags Head: relaxing hikes in Jockey’s Ridge State Park, Bodie Island Lighthouse, and Jeannette’s Pier (for scenic area views). Dining out is aplenty with several barbeque and seafood restaurants.
Best Months to Visit Outer Banks
If you don’t like crowds and want lower rates, go to the Outer Banks from March to May or September to November which are both off season. Summer months are the peak period where everything is more expensive and there are throngs of crowds. The temperature is consistently warm and humid – highs in the upper 80s during summer, and lows in the 40s and 50s during winter months.