Looking for the best Outer Banks day trips? Well, you’re in luck, OBX is perfect for the adventurous soul. People come from all over to not only admire this beautiful sandbar and bask in the warm weather, but to experience the local beach life. I’m going to give you all the great information you need about the area and the top places to visit. So, get out there, have fun, and explore!
Manteo
Manteo is a small harbor town, but rich in history and attractions. For those looking for retail therapy or perhaps a good brew, check out the Lost Colony brewery and the many boutiques and artisan shops located in the center of town. Manteo is also home to the Kill Devil Rum distillery, so stop in for a tasty libation while you're there. Another great family friendly activity is the OBX Walking Tours! Discover what makes the Outer Banks one of the spookiest beaches in America! Visit the Roanoke Island Festival Park, Island Farm or Elizabethan Gardens for outdoor activities and during your stay, be sure to be on the lookout for seasonal events, such as concerts and farmer’s markets, which make perfect family outings for when the beach hours reach their limit.
Carova
Pack your 4x4 and head north to the sand for a day on the beach! The adventure of driving on the beach through the sand is a great start to the day. Your beach parking permit can be purchased at the Corolla Visitor’s Center or the Currituck Outer Banks Welcome Center. This pass is required from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Carova offers wide open beaches for you to find your perfect spot and set up camp. Then relax in your beach chair and enjoy the ocean and salt air. You might even be so lucky to share your plot with the local wild mustangs, but don’t forget to keep your distance! On your way back, stop to tour the Corolla Lighthouse and the historic Whalehead Club for a piece of local history. Or are you looking for a bit more adventure? Try your hand at the Corolla Adventure Park, where "your adventure awaits"! After a long day soaking up the rays, you must be hungry! Try one of our many restaurants in Corolla to satisfy your taste buds.
Hatteras Island
Take a drive down route 12 and cross over the beautiful Marc Basnight Bridge. This scenic drive is an experience in itself. The first town you'll approach is Rodanthe. Rodanthe is well known for surfing, kitesurfing, fishing, kayaking as well as it's beautiful beaches. If seen the movie "Nights In Rodanthe" you'll also be able to catch a glimpse of the home from the movie while driving through the town. Waves and Salvo are the next two local towns on the map. Rodanthe, Waves, Salvo are all part of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. After passing these towns, drive a little further on a scenic stretch and you'll arrive in Avon. Avon has many local shops, restaurants and things to do. Buxton is the next town and is the home of the Hatteras Lighthouse. Many visitors like to drive on the beach down to Cape Point and spend the day fishing, surfing or just relaxing in the sun (beach driving permit required). The last two towns are Frisco and Hatteras which are both very popular fishing towns. After that, you'll either have to drive onto a ferry boat to Ocracoke or ditch the car for a charter boat out of Hatteras Village because the Island stops here!
Ocracoke
Who doesn’t love a ferry ride? Hop on and head to the famous Ocracoke Island located south of Hatteras. The ferry takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour. Why Ocracoke? You’ll experience a beach day that is unlike any other. For starters, you will find miles of pristine, untouched and uncrowded beaches. Ocracoke is all about getting in touch with nature and experiencing small town island life. Grab a golf cart or your trusty bicycle and head to the streets. You will find numerous boutiques and local eateries, along with nature trails and watersports! Have a history buff in the family? Check out the Ghost and History tours offered for an experience to remember.