Top reasons to visit Outer Banks
- Stunning Beaches: The Outer Banks boasts beautiful sandy shores, ideal for relaxation and family fun.
- Historic Lighthouses: Explore iconic lighthouses that offer rich history and breathtaking views.
- Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy activities like airboat eco-tours, horse tours, and various water sports.
- Charming Towns: Experience the unique atmosphere and local culture in quaint coastal towns.
- Diverse Accommodation: From oceanfront inns to cosy bed and breakfasts, there's a perfect stay for everyone.
Find great hotels near Outer Banks
Discover the charm of the Outer Banks with a variety of accommodation options to suit every traveller. From the inviting John Yancey Oceanfront Inn to quaint bed and breakfasts and cosy inns, you'll find the perfect retreat. Whether you're seeking pet-friendly hotels, beach access, or unforgettable adventure experiences, this region offers a delightful mix of new hotels and vacation rentals to enhance your stay.
- Surf Side Hotel: Nestled just 8km from the Outer Banks, Surf Side Hotel offers a charming beach getaway with a guest rating of 9.6 out of 10. This budget-friendly accommodation is ideal for travellers seeking a relaxed beach vacation experience. With direct access to the sandy shores, guests can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and leisurely walks along the beach. The hotel features comfortable rooms and a welcoming atmosphere, making it a pleasant retreat after a day of seaside adventures.
- Holiday Inn Express Nags Head Oceanfront by IHG: Located 11km from the Outer Banks, the Holiday Inn Express Nags Head Oceanfront by IHG boasts a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. This hotel appeals to adventure enthusiasts looking for an exciting beach holiday. With direct access to the beach, guests can partake in a variety of adventure sports such as hiking, windsurfing, and fishing nearby. The property's recreational activities and comfortable accommodations ensure a delightful stay for those eager to explore the great outdoors.
- Comfort Inn South Oceanfront: Situated merely 6km from the Outer Banks, Comfort Inn South Oceanfront is a family-friendly accommodation that welcomes pets. With amenities catering to children, including complimentary cribs (upon reservation), this hotel creates a convenient environment for families on holiday. Additionally, the property’s direct access to the beach allows for fun-filled days in the sun. The hotel’s pet policy, permitting dogs and cats, ensures that your furry companions can enjoy the holiday alongside you.
Where to stay near Outer Banks
The Outer Banks, a stunning string of barrier islands in North Carolina, offers a perfect blend of beachside relaxation and outdoor adventure for families and travellers alike. Explore the charming towns, rich history, and breathtaking sand dunes that define this coastal paradise. Enjoy family-friendly excursions, indulge in local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of this remarkable vacation destination. The Outer Banks promises a memorable experience filled with natural beauty and delightful exploration.
- Nags Head: Nestled 14km away from Outer Banks, Nags Head is a vibrant city known for its beautiful beaches and outdoor family experiences. The town welcomes a moderate influx of travellers, particularly from May to July. Visitors can enjoy its lively boardwalk, expansive golf courses, and various recreational areas. Highlights include the stunning local beaches and nature reserves, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the natural beauty of the coast. With a relaxed atmosphere and numerous family-friendly activities, Nags Head is an ideal destination for a memorable beach holiday.
- Manteo: Located 11km from Outer Banks, Manteo offers a charming blend of outdoor adventures and coastal relaxation. This city sees a seasonal peak in visitor numbers during April and the summer months. The boardwalk is a popular spot for leisurely strolls, while the local theatre and recreational areas provide entertainment for all ages. Manteo is home to beautiful beaches and a picturesque marina, making it a great place for those looking to embrace the adventurous spirit of the outdoors while enjoying the scenic views of the water.
- Wanchese: Just 6km from Outer Banks, Wanchese is a quaint city that captures the essence of beach life and outdoor adventure. The peak travel period occurs from July to September, attracting visitors eager to experience its stunning coastal scenery. Activities such as exploring the boardwalk, indulging in recreational pursuits, and playing golf are readily available. With beautiful family beaches and a lively marina nearby, Wanchese is perfect for those who wish to unwind or embark on thrilling water sports while soaking in the sun and sea.
Things to do in Outer Banks
Shopping
In the Outer Banks, visit the Tanger Outlets for a variety of brand-name shops offering discounts. For unique gifts, explore local artisan markets like the Hatteras Island Art Gallery, where you can find handcrafted items and souvenirs reflecting the area's charm.
Recreation
The Sanderling Resort offers a tranquil coastal retreat, featuring rejuvenating spa treatments and yoga sessions with ocean views. Nearby, the Nags Head Woods Ecological Preserve invites visitors to explore serene walking trails amid diverse flora and fauna, promoting relaxation and connection with nature.
Adventure
The Outer Banks offers thrilling kiteboarding at Cape Hatteras, where winds whip across stunning beaches, perfect for both beginners and experts. Experience the exhilaration of hang gliding at Jockey’s Ridge State Park, soaring over the tallest sand dunes on the East Coast for breathtaking views.
Nightlife
In Outer Banks, the lively atmosphere of the Outer Banks Brewing Station features local brews and live music. Meanwhile, The Corner Tavern offers a laid-back vibe with pool tables and a variety of drinks, making it a popular spot for evening relaxation and socialising.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Outer Banks
To save money on your trip to the Outer Banks, consider visiting between December and February when hotel prices are at their lowest. Booking about a month in advance or exploring last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia can yield significant savings. Tuesdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Fridays tend to be pricier. Utilise Expedia’s filters to find eco-friendly hotels and sort by price to uncover the best deals. Additionally, consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for further discounts, ensuring a budget-friendly vacation experience.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The hotel pricing around Outer Banks is moderately seasonal. The cheapest months to stay around Outer Banks are December to February, where the prices are moderately lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are moderately higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Outer Banks is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Outer Banks is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Outer Banks is Friday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you wish to stay in. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You may find that you can save money by combining your Outer Banks hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions near Outer Banks
The Outer Banks in North Carolina is an ideal destination for beach and outdoor family holidays, featuring popular attractions such as marinas, historic lighthouses, and jetties. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture and seek adventure while exploring Ocracoke Island and its charming surroundings. With a variety of outdoor experiences and family-friendly activities, the Outer Banks promises a memorable getaway for all types of travellers.
- Festival Park: Located 11km from Outer Banks, Festival Park offers a rich cultural atmosphere with its historic significance. Visitors can explore various exhibits that showcase the region's history, making it an excellent spot for those interested in local heritage.
- Jennette's Pier: Situated 6km away, Jennette's Pier is a delightful family-friendly destination. The pier features friendly locals and provides opportunities for fishing, walking, and enjoying the stunning ocean views, making it a relaxing place for families to gather.
- Bodie Island Lighthouse: Just 3km from Outer Banks, Bodie Island Lighthouse is an iconic historic structure steeped in culture. Visitors can marvel at its architectural beauty and learn about its storied past while enjoying the scenic surroundings.
Best time to go to Outer Banks
The best time to visit Outer Banks can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Outer Banks falls in July, when visitor numbers are high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Outer Banks falls in January, visitor numbers are low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.