Your Next Trip TRAVEL GUIDE
Outer Banks
Discover the natural wonders of the Outer Banks, North Carolina, in this episode of Your Next Trip. From wild Spanish mustangs roaming the beaches of Corolla to the towering Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, and the serene Alligator River Wildlife Refuge, explore a coastal paradise filled with adventure, history, and unspoiled beauty.
Now, check out our recommendations featured in this episode and more!
What to do
Wild Horse Adventure Tours
Experience the wild Spanish mustangs of Corolla up close on a guided 4WD tour through their natural habitat.
- Address: 610 Currituck Clubhouse Dr., Corolla, NC
- Hours: Tours available daily; check website for times
- Cost: Starting at $65 per adult
- Website: Wild Horse Adventure Tours
Jockey’s Ridge State Park
Home to the tallest living sand dune on the Atlantic coast, perfect for hiking, kite flying, and hang gliding.
- Address: 300 W Carolista Dr., Nags Head, NC
- Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
- Cost: Free admission
- Website: Jockey’s Ridge State Park
Wright Brothers National Memorial
Visit the site of the first powered flight and explore exhibits dedicated to aviation pioneers Wilbur and Orville Wright.
- Address: 1000 N Croatan Hwy, Kill Devil Hills, NC
- Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
- Cost: $10 per person; children under 16 free
- Website: Wright Brothers National Memorial
Where to stay
The Inn on Pamlico Sound
A boutique hotel offering waterfront views, luxurious amenities, and an on-site gourmet restaurant.
- Address: 49684 NC-12, Buxton, NC
- Price: ($$$)
- Website: The Inn on Pamlico Sound
Sanderling Resort
An upscale resort featuring elegant rooms, a spa, and easy access to both the ocean and the sound.
- Address: 1461 Duck Rd., Duck, NC
- Price: ($$$)
- Website: Sanderling Resort
First Colony Inn
A historic inn with charming rooms, complimentary breakfast, and close proximity to the beach.
- Address: 6715 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC
- Price: ($$)
- Website: First Colony Inn
And there’s tons of other fabulous places to stay during your trip.
Check out the best accommodation deals below.
What to eat
Blue Moon Beach Grill
A casual spot serving coastal cuisine with a Southern twist, known for its fresh seafood and friendly atmosphere.
- Address: 4104 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC
- Hours: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM daily
- Website: Blue Moon Beach Grill
Kill Devil Grill
A retro diner offering American classics, seafood specialties, and award-winning desserts.
- Address: 2008 S Virginia Dare Trail, Kill Devil Hills, NC
- Hours: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM daily
- Website: Kill Devil Grill
The Colington Cafe
An elegant dining experience featuring seafood and steak dishes in a charming, tree-covered setting.
- Address: 1029 Colington Rd., Kill Devil Hills, NC
- Hours: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM daily
- Website: The Colington Cafe
Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
The Outer Banks is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is late spring (May-June) or early fall (September-October).
During these months, you’ll enjoy mild weather, fewer crowds, and lower accommodation rates. Summer (July-August) is ideal for beach lovers, but it’s also the busiest season. Winter offers solitude but limited activities as many attractions close.Getting Around
The best way to explore the Outer Banks is by car, as public transit is minimal.
Car Rentals: Available at Norfolk International Airport (the nearest major airport) or locally in the Outer Banks.
Bike Rentals: Perfect for exploring smaller areas like Duck or Corolla.
Ferries: North Carolina Department of Transportation offers ferries to connect islands, such as the Hatteras-Ocracoke ferry (free).
Ride-Sharing: Services like Uber and Lyft operate but may be limited in remote areas.
Safety Tips
Wildlife: Keep a safe distance from wild horses and other animals. Feeding them is illegal and dangerous.
Beach Safety: Pay attention to rip current warnings and swim only in designated areas.
Weather Alerts: Hurricane season runs from June to November; check forecasts and plan accordingly.
Driving: Be cautious on NC Highway 12, especially during storms, as sections can flood or become covered in sand.Helpful Notes
Currency: US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted, but some smaller businesses may prefer cash.
Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time (EST).
Tipping: Standard tipping practices apply (15-20% at restaurants, $1-$2 per bag for bellhops).
Plug Type: Type A (two-pin) and Type B (three-pin, grounded)
Voltage: 120V
Frequency: 60Hz
Packing list
Here’s our suggested items to pack for this destination. Please always consider the weather and activities you will be doing.
Clothing and Accessories
- Lightweight clothing: Breathable tops, shorts, and sundresses for warm weather.
- Layers: A light jacket or hoodie for cooler evenings, especially in spring and fall.
- Swimwear: For beach days, kayaking, and water sports.
- Comfortable walking shoes: Essential for exploring trails and lighthouses.
- Sandals or flip-flops: Ideal for the beach and casual outings.
- Wide-brim hat and sunglasses: For sun protection.
- Rain jacket or poncho: In case of sudden showers.
Outdoor and Activity Gear
- Beach towel and blanket: For lounging by the ocean.
- Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated while exploring.
- Bug spray and sunscreen: For protection from insects and UV rays.
- Binoculars: Perfect for spotting wildlife, including wild horses and birds.
- Camera or smartphone: Capture the stunning landscapes and memories.
- Backpack: For carrying essentials during day trips and hikes.
Specialized Items
- Kite: A fun addition for Jockey’s Ridge State Park.
- Kayaking gear (optional): Rentals are available, but bring your own if you prefer.
- Travel guide or map: For navigating remote areas where cell service may be limited.
Toiletries and Medications
- Lip balm with SPF: To prevent sunburn.
- First aid kit: Include essentials like band-aids, pain relievers, and motion sickness remedies (if taking ferries).
- Personal medications: Pack enough for your trip duration.
Tech and Essentials
- Portable charger: Keep your devices powered during long outings.
- Travel adapter: Not necessary for U.S. travelers; standard U.S. plugs are used.
- Plug Type: A and B
- Voltage: 120 V
- Frequency: 60 Hz
Extras
- Books or magazines: Relax during downtime at the beach.
- Reusable tote bag: Handy for carrying items to the beach or when shopping.
Get a full packing list and free downloadable template at Pack Better.
Ultimate Packing List Library
Find the perfect customizable packing list for all of your travel situations on our sister website Pack Better.
This episode of "Your Next Trip" explored the ancestral lands of
We extend our respect and gratitude to the Indigenous communities who have been the stewards of these lands for generations. Research for this acknowledgment was made possible using the NativeLand.ca.
Learn more about responsible travel practices in the TWD Responsible Travel Guide.
Visit the guideTrip provided by: Outer Banks Visitors Bureau
Editor: Muhammad Arsalan
