The Outer Banks: A Top Summer Getaway

Nags Head | Credit: Tim Bish

The Outer Banks is a string of barrier islands off North Carolina’s coast that offers visitors endless charm and appeal. Let’s explore some reasons why the Outer Banks has become North Carolina’s premier summer destination.

Gorgeous Natural Scenery

The Outer Banks is filled with natural beauty, offering unspoiled beaches and other outdoor settings where visitors can immerse themselves in some of North Carolina’s most incredible scenery. The region is home to an abundance of native wildlife, from bobcats and rare birds to wild horses that roam many of the islands’ shores.

Jockey’s Ridge State Park is one of the most popular attractions on the Outer Banks. This 427-acre coastal park has the tallest sand dune system in the eastern United States. Driving along the Outer Banks National Scenic Byway, a picturesque 138-mile route, is another well-known activity. 

Outer Banks | Credit: Bonnie Kittle

Boundless Outdoor Adventure

Come summer, the warm North Carolina sun beats down on the Outer Banks, and tourists and residents take to the water. The region’s many beaches, including top destinations such as Nags Head and Kitty Hawk, are filled with those seeking to enjoy the weather and engage in outdoor fun.

On the Outer Banks, you can enjoy surfing, swimming, jet skiing, windsurfing, and various other water activities. Many visitors go boating, and the many marinas and boat launches make getting on the water a breeze. The fish that populate the Atlantic Ocean bring many anglers as well. For those who prefer to stay on dry land, the Outer Banks has many golf courses and hiking trails.

Nags Head | Credit: Kyle Calhoun

Quaint Towns with Historical Charm

If you want to spend your summer getaway in charming small towns with quaint buildings, excellent restaurants, and fascinating histories, you have come to the right place. The Outer Banks is filled with idyllic places for visitors to see during a summer escape. Below are just a few: 

Manteo: Manteo is a small town on Roanoke Island famous as having been the site of the disappearance of the Roanoke Colony, one of America’s great mysteries.

Corolla: A beachy paradise based on the northern end of the Outer Banks, Corolla is known for its famous lighthouse and its gorgeous sandy shores, where wild horses can be spotted.

Duck: Duck is a tiny coastal town that sees a massive influx of summer visitors. Tourists may enjoy boating or fishing, partaking in water sports, or going for a stroll down the boardwalk.

Corolla | Credit: Matt Hardison
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