Explore the North Carolina Outer Banks in Winter

The North Carolina Outer Banks are the premier vacation spot all year round, with a unique charm in the winter. During the winter you can enjoy mild weather, gorgeous natural scenery, and endless fun things to do in the Outer Banks. The Outer Banks are a true winter wonderland, but without the piles of snow and below-zero weather. 

The Outer Banks in Winter is the perfect time to visit

The team at Atlantic Realty is proud to call the Outer Banks home and offer guests a luxurious selection of oceanfront vacation rentals with plush amenities and guest perks. With theater rooms, private pools, Fun ‘N Sun Perk Passes, and pet-friendly options, you will have the best vacation ever in the Outer Banks this winter. Atlantic Realty has a team of local experts that are committed to offering guests superior customer service. That’s why we created this guide on the adventures you can find in the Outer Banks during the winter season.

9 Fun Things To Do in the Outer Banks in Winter

  1. At the Elizabethan Gardens, you can step into the time period when the first English Colony settled in North America. One of the most glorious Outer Banks traditions in winter is decorating the Elizabethan Gardens with stunning lights and holiday cheer.
  2. This winter in the Outer Banks, you can enjoy live music, holiday shopping, an elf scavenger hunt, and meet Santa at the Yuletide Celebration.
  3. Enjoy the annual holiday celebration at the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum. Explore the exhibits, a model Winter Wonderland train display, and live entertainment this winter in the Outer Banks. 
  4. You can still enjoy the magnificent Outer Banks beaches in winter through horseback riding, taking a stroll, and watching for wild horses. Check out our guides on the best horseback riding tours and wild horse tours in the Outer Banks.
  5. If the weather gets a little too chilly for your taste, you can tour the thrilling North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island.
  6. The Outer Banks is full of many stunning and historic lighthouses to explore in winter. 
  7. Venture through the tallest living sand dune along the Atlantic Coast, hiking trails, and enjoy kite flying at Jockey’s Ridge State Park.
  8. During winter in downtown Manteo, you can enjoy Christmas tree lighting, a Christmas parade, caroling, holiday treats, Christmas decorations, and meet Santa.
  9. Every winter in the Outer Banks, the First Flight Society celebrates Wright Brothers Day to honor the first successful airplane flight in Kitty Hawk, NC.

Book your stay today with Atlantic Realty to explore the North Carolina Outer Banks in winter!

Explore History at the Elizabethan Gardens in North Carolina

Take a step back in time to a golden age in English history when you visit the Elizabethan Gardens in North Carolina. Come enter the time period when Queen Elizabeth I was the reigning monarch of England, and the first English colony attempted to settle in America. Explore the adventure, history, and sparkling blue ocean views in the Outer Banks when you book one of Atlantic Realty’s vacation rentals. The Outer Banks has something for all interests, and the Elizabethan Gardens are the perfect vacation activity for history buffs.

The Elizabethan Gardens on Roanoke Island

The History Behind the Elizabethan Gardens

The Elizabethan Gardens are a memorial to the Roanoke colonists who lived on the site 400 years ago. This was the first English colony on American soil, but it did not last long. Shortly after the first English person was born in America, her grandfather returned to England for more supplies. He returned to find the colony abandoned and to this day, nobody is sure what happened to them.

During this time, Queen Elizabeth l was the ruler of England and the gardens are as authentic to that period as possible. Construction of the Elizabethan Gardens began on June 2, 1953, which is the exact date of the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. The Elizabethan Gardens opened to the public on August 18, 1960, which was the birthday of Virginia Dare, the first English person to be born in America.

Top 7 Things To Do at the Elizabethan Gardens

  1. Since the Elizabethan Gardens are part of the North Carolina Birding Trail, this is an excellent place for bird-watching.
  2. Admire the gorgeous bronze statue of Queen Elizabeth I. Her parents were the controversial King Henry VIII, and his second wife, Anne Boleyn. Queen Elizabeth’s 45-year reign was among the most popular in English history.  
  3. Visit the marble statue of Virginia Dare that Maria Louise Lande sculpted in 1859.
  4. Explore the Sunken Garden, which features an antique fountain with stonework from 16th-century Italy.
  5. Check the events page for upcoming events like the seasonal Virginia Dare birthday celebration. 
  6. Tiny travelers can check out the John White Butterfly Center and Discovery Cottage.
  7. Educational group tours are available for guests who want to experience the Elizabethan Gardens with guidance from a knowledgeable tour guide.

Plan your next vacation in a place booming with history and gorgeous ocean scenery. Book your stay today with Atlantic Realty and choose from our selection of luxury vacation rentals, with many options featuring amenities such as hot tubs and oceanfront pools.

Have Some Fun ‘N the Sun with Atlantic Realty || OBX Vacations

Summers in the OBX (Outer Banks of North Carolina) will transport you worlds away from your everyday hustle and bustle. Our family-friendly vacation destination is made up of over 100 miles of wide-open shoreline, Southern hospitality, and a mix of quaint seaside villages boasting unique personalities and rich history. Although we are a short drive away from major cities and airports, our barrier island communities feel remote. The OBX is where our beloved country got its start, so it’s only fitting that your summer vacation traditions start here!

Enjoy the Ocean with an Outer Banks Vacation

The Best OBX Vacations Start with Atlantic Realty 

Atlantic Realty is truly where your barrier island experience begins, supplying families with the best places to stay in the OBX every year. Since 1982, multiple generations of families have joined us in enjoying waves of fun and quiet relaxation. We offer a wide range of OBX vacation rentals from Corolla to South Nags Head, centered on amenities, togetherness, and affordability. Whatever you’re searching for, we’ve got something in store for you. 

If you are looking for a family vacation spot void of crowded spaces and busy cities, we welcome you to start a new family tradition and indulge in a much-needed OBX vacation. This summer, the friendly Atlantic Realty team will help you get more bang for your buck with our guest perks. Get ready to stretch your OBX vacation dollars as far as they can go with our acclaimed Fun N Sun Perks Pass Program—

Vacation Like A Local with Atlantic Realty’s Fun N Sun Perks Pass

Our Fun N Sun Perks Pass elevates all OBX vacations, no matter the time of year. This program is an exclusive vacation amenity providing complimentary local attractions, activities, and discounts for guests staying with us. We offer such great value to ensure your OBX vacation goes beyond the doors of our fabulous accommodations and beautiful outdoors. Take your summer stay to the next level with one (or more) of our recommended recreational activities! 

Explore the Shore This Summer with Atlantic Realty

At Atlantic Realty, we already know you’re excited to head down to our barrier island community straight away to begin the best OBX summer vacation possible. With our Fun N Sun Perks Pass in your back pocket, your family and friends will be able to enjoy affordable fun. Book one of our stunning OBX vacation rentals online today! 

Plan a Paw-sitive Spring Break in Pet-Friendly OBX

There’s no time like the present to start planning your family’s spring break! As we enter a new year full of possibilities and hope, folks all over the country are looking forward to a nice break from work and school. You all deserve it, including your furry family members. This year, head to the pet-friendly OBX, otherwise known as the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Our barrier island communities offer a sweet reprieve from bustling crowds, hectic attractions, and essentially all things that can make spring break undesirable. The pet-friendly OBX will allow you to fully enjoy your short family vacation, with so many incredible attractions and activities. 

Kids and Dog on the beach
Pet Friendly Vacations are easy on the Outer Banks

Your barrier island experience begins when you stay with Atlantic Realty, where travelers consistently find the best places to stay on the Outer Banks. Since 1982, families have enjoyed spring breaks in our lovely OBX vacation homes, dotting the gorgeous shoreline. We’ll help you get more bang for your buck during your stay and we proudly provide several pet-friendly OBX vacation rentals. Follow our quick guide to a paw-some spring break adventure, all within perfect reach from your OBX vacation home—

Pet-Friendly Itinerary for Your OBX Spring Break

Your family’s spring break vacation can be rewarding for both humans and pets. The OBX has always been an incredible pet-friendly destination, drawing in visitors from all over! We have compiled a list of pet-friendly things to do to help with your vacation planning process. 

Where to Stay

Atlantic Realty has your vacation rental needs and wants covered! Our pet-friendly rentals ensure that you don’t have to leave your well-behaved pup behind this spring. We offer over 40 pet-friendly OBX homes, spanning from Corolla all the way to South Nags Head. There is something for every family, including great modern amenities and beautiful views. 

Where to Eat

What to Do 

Make sure to check out our helpful “Traveling with Pets” page for more valuable tips and tricks. You can also feel free to ask our knowledgeable staff for information! Book your pet-friendly OBX vacation home with Atlantic Realty online today—just in time for spring break!

10 Best Outer Banks Restaurants that Offer Takeout

The barrier islands located off the coast of North Carolina make for the perfect summer vacation. Sun, sand, and beaches, the Outer Banks has everything you can ask for. This quintessential holiday destination also has an amazing range of restaurants that you can choose from during your stay at Atlantic Realty. Let us explore some of the best Outer Banks restaurants that offer takeout.

Outer Banks Restaurants are offering takeout options for visitors

  1. NC Coast Grill & Bar

One of the newest restaurants in Duck, NC Coast Grill & Bar not only offers takeout (with online ordering) but also is currently offering indoor dining with 50% capacity. Take in the amazing water views and experience the chef-driven, fresh, and fit coastal cuisine. As an Atlantic Realty partner, NC Coast Grill & Bar offers free desserts to Atlantic Realty guests as part of our Fun N Sun Pass program. Just mention this promo and enjoy!

2. Argyle’s Restaurant

The perfect place for a wholesome breakfast or lunch, Argyle’s Restaurant is a farm-to-table restaurant serving fresh local seafood and an exciting range of entrees, too. 

3. Mulligan’s Grille

Mulligan’s Grille and Restaurant is located in the historic cottage row area of Nags Head (just past Jockey’s Ridge) and offers a wide variety of entrees sure to please the entire family’s palate (including pets). Their unique outdoor dining deck is pet friendly and Mulligan’s offers a complimentary dog meal with the purchase of an adult meal as part of Atlantic Realty’s Fun N Sun Pass Program.

4. Ashley’s Espresso Parlour

This cute coffee shop is a popular hangout in the area. Ashley’s Espresso Parlour is known for hand-roasted coffee beans and excellent brews.

5. Avenue Waterfront Grille

This fantastic Outer Banks restaurant has a nice casual vibe and serves some of the best seafood in the area. Avenue Waterfront Grille offers chef-prepared dishes for shellfish lovers, vegetarians, vegans, and gluten-free eaters alike. 

6. Bad Bean Baja Grill

If you are looking for a casual place to have lunch, Bad Bean Baja Grill is it. They serve fantastic tacos, quesadillas, salads, and every other Mexican food you can dream of.

7. Barrier Island Bagels

Located at the Marketplace Shopping Center, Barrier Island Bagels serves some of the best bagels. You can also have some Acai Bowls and Homemade Smoothies if you like. Their bagels are never frozen and always fresh.

8. Bros Sandwich Shack

Bros Sandwich Shack is a restaurant owned by brothers who make some of the best food in the Outer Banks. You know a place has good food when they have a line of people waiting outside on the door every day for their fresh homemade burgers, pickles, and ranch dressing.

9. Freshfit Cafe

If you are on a diet, but still want to enjoy some delicious food, Freshfit Cafe is the place for you. This is a nutrition-oriented and health-focused cafe which fresh and balanced breakfasts and lunches.

10, Lost Colony Brewery & Cafe

Offering some great beer brews, Lost Colony Brewery & Cafe is one of the best hangout beer places in the area. The food is also diverse and fresh & it never fails to disappoint.

Enjoy the Best Outer Banks Restaurants at Atlantic Realty

Enjoy dishes from the best Outer Banks restaurants near your North Carolina rental at Atlantic Realty. You’re in for an unforgettable family getaway experience at our oceanfront vacation homes. For more information, check availability online

Embark on an Outer Banks Horseback Riding Tour

Soak in the beauty of the Atlantic Coast from a different vantage point with an Outer Banks horseback riding tour near your vacation home. Luckily for you, there are plenty of options from which to choose when you make a reservation via Atlantic Realty. Whether you’re looking for a romantic ride on the beach at sunset with your significant other or an unforgettable equestrian family outing, you’re sure to have a fantastic time on an Outer Banks horse tour. 

Outer Banks Horse Riding for All Ages & Comfort Levels

One of the best things about horseback riding tours is that nearly everyone can do it. Most establishments do have age, weight, and height restrictions for the riders’ and horses’ safety but are otherwise inclusive. There’s no prior experience necessary for an equine adventure near your Outer Banks rentals. Choose the tour that best fits your interests and schedule, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a beautiful day on the Atlantic Coast.

Lighthouse Horse Rides 

Open year-round, Lighthouse Horse Rides offers a wide variety of tours, befitting all skill levels and interests. Their expert guides strive for inclusivity in ensuring everyone has a safe and memorable experience; they even offer handicapped accommodations for those who need it. If you don’t see a tour that speaks to you, consider their custom tour option, and build the perfect Outer Banks horseback riding outing. 

Hatteras Island Horseback Riding

If you’re staying in an Outer Banks vacation rental with your family, Hatteras Island Horseback Riding might be the perfect place for you. They specialize in giving family tours, offer family packages, work well with people of all ages, and they’re open year-round. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them about organizing a custom ride for the anniversary or proposal of your dreams. 

Reserve the Perfect Outer Banks House Rental for Your Needs

From romantic retreats to family reunions, Atlantic Realty has the perfect North Carolina rental for your needs. We even have an assortment of specials so that you can get the utmost fun and excitement from your stay in the Outer Banks. To learn more about our fabulous offerings or luxurious vacation rentals, please give us a call at 877-858-4795.

North Carolina Spring Break for Families

Spring Break is a great time for families to visit the Outer Banks before the summer rush

Year after year, families chose to vacation in North Carolina for spring break, especially in the Outer Banks. The oceanside towns offer countless activities for children of all ages. Whether you’re splashing in the water, strolling through downtown, or decorating a sandcastle, Outer Banks will keep your family smiling all vacation long. Each town offers a unique set of activities, so regardless of your Atlantic Realty’s vacation rental location, there will be many things to do “near me.” 

Water Sports

One of the most popular Outer Banks activities is exploring several nearby water sports. If you’re hoping to reserve Outer Banks equipment rentals watercrafts, such as jet skis and boats, the sound is an ideal place to explore. However, use these rentals with caution since certain areas are very shallow. When it comes to non-motorized water sports, such as kayaking, windsurfing, kiteboarding, parasailing, paddleboarding, and surfing, visitors can utilize several more areas in the Outer Banks. 

Kiteboarding and windsurfing are quickly rising to be a top activity in the Outer Banks. Spend the day learning this new skill with lessons from Kitty Hawk Watersports. Your family will laugh all day long while watching each other face plant into the water. Our team loves Kitty Hawk Watersports because they boast several other watersports rentals, such as jet skis, kayaks, parasails, paddleboards, and more! For an extra treat, our Fun N Sun Pass gifts Atlantic Realty guests one free on-site stand up paddleboard or kayak rental per day, thanks to Kitty Hawk Kayak & Surf School

Beachcombing & Hunting for Ghost Crabs

ghost crabbing on the Outer Banks is a fun day or night time activity.
Ghost crabbing is a fun daytime or nighttime activity for kids and adults alike.

If you’ve ever taken a stroll down the beach at night, you must have noticed the highly-active tiny Ghost Crabs. These nocturnal creatures are best revealed under the glowing moon or a flashlight. However, you can also go hunting for Ghost Crabs during the day—dig in the shallow water and along the tide’s breaking point on the beach. You’ll be surprised by just how many critters live below the surface, such as sand daggers and sand crabs. 

North Carolina Aquarium

One of the top things to do during your Outer Banks family vacation is spending time at the North Carolina Aquarium. Children and adults of all ages enjoy watching aquatic animals swim and splash about in the aquarium’s realistic habitat. The aquarium’s exhibits feature rare animals, such as Alligators, Black Widow Spiders, Diamondback Rattlesnakes, Sea Otters, and more! One highlight of the North Carolina Aquarium is the mock Sea Turtles healing center and Observation Center. Here, visitors can pretend to assess Sea Turtles’ health, determine a diagnosis, and nurse some Sea Turtles back to health.  
At the end of your long day exploring Outer Banks activities, return to your Atlantic Realty vacation rental. We boast a wide selection of beach houses in the Outer Banks to accommodate various family sizes, so we’re confident you’ll be eager to visit North Carolina for spring break the following year. Start planning your epic spring break and give our staff a call today at 855-486-2150.

Charter Fishing on the Outer Banks

For decades the Outer Banks has been known as a fishing haven with so many options — surf fishing, pier fishing, and even charter boat fishing. There are many types of charter trips on the Outer Banks to pick from; it can be hard to know what kind is right for you. This article will help you book the best Outer Banks Charter for you and your family to make great memories, and catch some fish.

What Does Your Group Need To Be Comfortable?

This is a question that has no universal ‘right’ answer, but rather an answer that is very ‘right’ for your unique group. For example, elderly people need to comfortable and have shade, while children need to move around.  The ‘right’ answer for your group is to choose a charter where everyone will have a good time.

Catch of the Day

Does Anyone Have Special Needs?

Special needs is a broad topic that covers everything from seasickness to sunburns to panicking if you can’t see land and a whole host of other issues as well. Sometimes, soundside or inshore charters work best, sometimes only a real ocean charter will do, and sometimes a dolphin tour, eco tour or pontoon boat is just the ticket.

The Bathroom Situation

No one likes talking about this one. I get it. But you’re going to be on this boat for at least half a day or longer, so it must be addressed. Larger commercial boats that go out in the ocean have a bathroom like an airplane bathroom; cramped, but private. However, many smaller outboard boats only have a seat cushion you pull up where the ‘head’ is under it. This works for some people, but not so well for others. If it matters to you, ask before you book.

What Do You Want To Catch?

What you want to catch also plays a part in the type of Outer Banks charter you book. For example, if you want to catch billfish, they are only in the gulf, so the decision of the type of charter you rent has been made for you. However, you can also catch tuna, croaker, stripers, flounders, crabs and many others. Ask the boat you’re thinking about chartering about the type of fish you’re planning to catch.

Kids enjoy catching fish too!

Is A Private Charter A Must?

When people think of charters, they often think of private ones. However, make up charters are also a thing. This is where a boat captain collects the names of a bunch of singles or couples who want to fish but not rent a whole boat. Then, when the captain has enough people, they let all the makeup people know so they can go out together.

Another option for a non-private charter is a head boat. This is a rather large sound-going boat that holds about 100 people.  Yes, you’re all competing for fish, but you will catch some anyway. The big advantages of head boats are the price, the lack of waves (since they don’t go in the ocean,) the normal bathroom and a lounge area to go in if it gets too hot or uncomfortable. It’s a great family-friendly option.

Charter Boat Fishing on the Sea Hunter

How Long Do You Want To Spend on The Water?

Charter boat trips come in three lengths; whole day, half day and two hours. A two hour tour boat only represents a small number of the boats, and they are sound boats, so you’ll most likely spend either a whole day or half day on the water. Sometimes you can dictate how long the charter is, but many times, your destination will dictate it. For example, going gulf fishing takes a whole day.  Decide on how long your group can stand to be on a boat before you book.

Do You Really Want To Catch Fish Or Do You Just Want A Day On The Water?

Do you really want to catch fish or just enjoy a day on the water? It’s possible to charter a pontoon boat with the purpose of just spending a day on the water and not catching fish. Pontoon boats can take you exploring nature, swimming, and tubing and drop you off at hard-to-get-to islands. And yes, they can catch fish and crabs too.  There are even private sunset cruises.

Day on the Water with the Pontoon Man

To Sum Up

When it comes to booking a charter on the Outer Banks, there are certainly a lot of choices. None of the choices are ‘bad’, but not all the choices are right for your family. Keeping these considerations in mind will help you make the best choice for you and for family so they can look back to this day and think about what a wonderful day it was.

Be sure to check out our Explore the Shore Program for discounts on activities including Charter Boat Fishing from local boats.

Fall Getaways on the Outer Banks

Fall is the absolute best time to visit the Outer Banks. The weather is great (less heat and humidity than in Summer), the water is still warm, the Summer crowds have left, and the shops and restaurants are still open. Best of all, the vacation rental rates are low–up to 60% off peak Summer rates! Gather your group and make a plan to getaway to the OBX this Fall. We make it easy with affordable weekend and weeklong stays.

Girls Getaways

Grab your besties and head to the beach for a Fall Getaway on the Outer Banks. Imagine spending the day lounging on the beach with a great book or catching up on some great conversation with your friends. How about a night out? There is plenty of entertainment even in the Off Season and wine tastings are available if you want to keep things a little more low key. Treat yourself with a rejuvenating trip to one of our local Spas or an incredible piece of art or jewelry from any one of the galleries and shops up and down the beach. The option to do everything the OBX has to offer (or even nothing) all weekend is yours!

Enjoy a little retail therapy on the OBX

Guys Getaways

We can’t leave the fellas out of an Outer Banks Fall Vacation. With amazing outdoor activities available including Golf (FREE at 2 separate 18 hole courses with the Atlantic Realty Fun N Sun Pass), Charter Fishing Trips to the Gulf Stream, Pier Fishing and even Brewery Tours, there is something for all the guys in your group! Who will be the daredevil to try hang gliding on Jockey’s Ridge or Skydiving with OBX Skydive?

Hang gliding lessons are available from Kitty Hawk Kites

Couples Getaways

The Outer Banks was made for couples! From the gorgeous sunrise and sunset views each and every day here, to the romantic walks along the beach, there could not be a more perfect setting to spend the weekend away with your better half. Tour the local historic sites and attractions such as the Elizabethan Gardens or Currituck Lighthouse for a perfect photo op or cruise on down to Hatteras or Ocracoke Island for an amazing day trip.

Wine glass on the beach
Outer Banks Romantic Getaways

The Outer Banks is the perfect Fall destination. In addition to all of the things to see and do here year round, Fall brings several annual events and festivals to the area including the Outer Banks Seafood Festival and Duck Jazz Festival.

Give us a call today! Our Vacation Planners would be happy to help you plan your Outer Banks Getaway. Can’t wait? Browse our Vacaton Rental Homes now.

Unique Outer Banks Experiences

Did you know there are some things you can only do on the Outer Banks?  These unique experiences are part of what makes the OBX an amazing vacation destination and a perfect spot to start (or continue) your family’s vacation traditions.

Seeing The Horses

The Outer Banks is one of the few places that still has wild horses roaming free on the beach. They are a beautiful sight to behold and many consider them a metaphor for life. These horses inhabit the four wheel drive area in Corlla and you’ll never know when you’ll see one. If you want a guaranteed sighting, take a tour with our Fun N Sun partner, Corolla Outback Adventures.  Seeing these majestic animals in their natural habitat is an experience you’ll carry with you forever.

OBX Crabbing

Other places ‘crab’ by putting out pots and then collecting the crabs later. And while that’s how commercial crabbers do it, it’s not how it’s done on the Outer Banks when you’re crabbing for fun with your family. It all starts with a chicken neck, a piece of twine, a dock, (Duck has a public one) and a net.  You simply tie the twine around the neck, lower it in the water and wait for a nibble. Then, you slowly lift the twine and scoop up the crab with the net. It’s an experience that always leads to fun, laughter and great memories.

Ghost Crabbing

Here’s a great time guarantee for anyone with kids or who are kids are heart; ghost crabbing. Nope. It’s not like regular crabbing. These aren’t edible crabs and you aren’t going to keep them. (They don’t make great pets either.) All you have to do is wait until sunset, then grab your flashlight, kids and camera and head to the beach. Ghost crabs are sand colored crabs that only come out at night. Shine your flashlight around until you see the moving sand. You’ve found one! Then, take its picture. That’s all there is too it. This simple activity can keep kids and adults entertained for ours and it’s a good way to work off energy in the evening.

Eating Outer Banks Style

From dining with your dogs, to watching the sun set as you dine, to having food exclusive to the Outer Banks, like Hatteras Clam Chowder, blue fish dip, or wine from local vineyards, eating can make a memory too. There’s a variety of décor and food for all tastes including seafood, fine dining casual dining and some places you just have to try to believe. The best conversations are always had over meals after all. So it makes sense some of your best memories would also be over food. The smells, the tastes, the decor and the setting, there’s nothing quite like the outer banks.

The Lost Colony

The Outer Banks is home to the first English settlement in the new world. It’s also home to the longest running outdoor drama about that very topic. Paul greens’ play has been running every summer since 1937. It has featured famous stars before they got famous, including Andy Griffith, Leon Rippy, Chris Elliott, Eileen Fulton, Terrence Mann, Ira David Wood III and R.G. Armstrong . It has even won a Tony for Excellence in Theatre. This is family a friendly show, but does have some intense scenes involving fire which might be frightening for the littlest viewers.

The Outer Banks Comedy Club

Another great entertainment option is the Outer Banks Comedy Club. This is actually the oldest seasonal comedy club in the country and is well known on the comedy club circuit for new comedians just starting out. Some now famous comedians who started out at this club include Ray Romano, Drew Carey, and Sinbad. Food and drink can be ordered just show. And since every week is a different performer, you can see it year after year and see something new every time. The show is suitable for ages 16 and up.

The Grass Mini Golf Course

All tourist areas have a wide selection of mini golf courses and the Outer Banks is no exception. You can find everything from the more commercial chain mini-golf places, to the more traditional retro kind on the beach road. And then, there’s the Grass Course. This is true miniature golf from several generations ago is an actual grass course, devoid of windmills and waterfalls. Instead, the landscaping provides the challenge, just like real golf. . It looks just like a real golf course that’s been shrunken down, complete with tiny sand trap and an osprey nest. The Grass Course the course is a great way to introduce kids to the joys of golf when they’re not ready for a real course yet.

A Day On The Sound

A sound is like a bay; and is also known as a big water playground for such sorts such as stand up paddle boarding, kayaking, waterskiing, jet skiing and parasailing.  So when you’re sick of the beach, come to the sound and have a great time. Chartering a sound boat (like a pontoon boat) is  the perfect option for amities who want to take a boat trip together but are nervous about going all the way out to the ocean. A day on the sound offers tiny waves, little chance of getting seasick and land always in sight. You can charter a bot for the sound as well as the ocean. There are places to swim, islands to explore, and fish to catch.  A good time will be had by all, including the very young and the elderly.

Climbing A Lighthouse

The Outer Banks is famous for its lighthouses. There are actually a few you can climb and several more you can visit. Ironically, both the world’s tallest all concrete light house (Cape Hatteras) and the shortest (Ocracoke Island) are both on the Outer Banks.  The one in Corolla is always open for climbing, while Hatteras and Bodie Island are opened sometimes (call before you go to make sure they’re open while you’re here.)  There’s nothing like the view from the top of the lighthouse. Don’t want to climb? No problem, the surrounding grounds has enough history and nature to please everyone.

Catching ‘The Big One’

There’s nothing like fishing on the Outer Banks. In fact, the OBX is known for its fishing. The good news is you don’t even need a boat to catch a decent sized fish. You can catch one right of the shore or a pier. It’s also a great way to introduce fishing to children. And if you want to catch an even bigger one, then you can rent a charter boat and go fishing in the Gulf Stream. This way you can come back with a great fish and an even greater story.

Festival Park

Are you ready to learn about the original English settlers while climbing on board a life sized replica 16th century sailing vessel? If so, then your family is going to love Festival Park.  This historic site features the replica ship, English settlement, and Native American Village complete with costumed interpreters. There’s also a small museum, where you can watch a movie on the legend of Two-Path and the naming of the town of Skyco, explore more Outer Banks history, engage with selfie spots, dress up in costume and even shoot fake ducks. This interactive historic site is a child’s dream come true.

Watching The Boats At Oregon Inlet Come In With Their Catch

Organ inlet is home to a huge fleet of charter and commercial fishing boats. So if you’ve wondered where fish comes from, now’s your chance to find out. The ‘catch’ comes in early afternoon, and you love fishing, it’s an event not be missed.

Climbing Jockey’s Ridge

Let’s face it, all kids and most adults want to climb the dunes. They just look like so much fun to climb. However dunes are fragile on the OBX and definitely not climbing. Good think there’s Jockey’s Ridge, the only one made by nature for climbing. This dune is the largest one on the east coast, and begs to be climbed. Kids love running up the dune, rolling down it, and taking pictures with the ‘sand castle’ the only remnant of a long ago mini golf course the dune swallowed up in the 80’s. On the other side of the dune there is a sound beach perfect for little ones and pets. And of course the top of the dune offers a sight not to be missed.

The Vineyard Voyage

Sanctuary Vineyards is one of the Outer Banks most famous wineries, right here in Currituck. They make everything from Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc, Muscadine, Rose©, and icebox wine.  Many of their wines include unique to the region scuppernong grapes, wildflowers, and fruits. They’ve also won awards for their wines.  The Vineyard Voyage takes you to the vineyards for a tasting by way of a boat leaving from a dock in Duck. Wine and sightseeing; what could be better?

Local Festivals

The Outer Banks is famous for its various celebrations. From the Watermelon Festival, to the Art Under The Oaks,  The Wings Over Water, The Pirate Festival, the Food Truck Showdown, the Tiny House Festival, the Duck and Wine Festival, Taste of the Beach, and so many more, there’s always one to go to, regardless of the time of year.

Going On A Ghost Tour

Yes, OK, there are ghost tours other places, but you can only get Outer Banks ghost stories right here on the Outer Banks. You’ll hear tales of mystery like the Cora Tree, local legends like the ‘true’ fate of the Lost Colony and the white doe, and bizarre histories, like why it’s really called Kill Devil Hills and how the infamous pirate Blackbeard met his fate off our coast.

These are just a few of the unique experiences you can have at the Outer Banks, but they are by no means the only experiences you can have. If you’d like to discover more about things to do on the Outer Banks, just give our friendly planners a call. Since all our staff is local, they can direct you to the best things to do with your family so you can come home with the best memories. Let’s start planning your Outer Banks vacation traditions today!

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