What are the Outer Banks and what is traveling there like
I know when I first moved to the east coast I hadn’t heard much about the Outer Banks in North Carolina nor had they started making the super popular Netflix show “Outer Banks” just yet, which was filmed mostly in South Carolina.
When I started exploring beach destinations I was quickly drawn this amazing chain of barrier islands off the southeast coast of the united states.
In this article, I’m going to jump into some very basic topics: the what, where, why, etc of these amazing North Carolina Islands.
What are the Outer Banks?
The Outer Banks are a series of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina. This chain of islands stretches from Bodie Island to Ocracoke Island, and includes (but not limited to) Hatteras Island, Roanoke Island, Pea Island, and Kitty Hawk. With over 120 miles of shoreline and nearly 500 miles of combined access roads and bridges, these islands are home to some of the most beautiful sand dunes and beaches you’ll ever see.
Where are the Outer Banks located?
The Outer Banks are located off the southeast coast of North Carolina, with the nearest major city being Norfolk, Virginia. This cluster of islands is also accessible by car, ferries and even boat. Some travel times to the northern town of Salvo on Hatteras Island are:
- Raleigh/Durham: it’s just about 4 hours to drive to The Hatters Island National Seashore.
- From Washington DC: 5:15 depending on traffic
- From Richmond, VA: 3:45 minutes
- From Philadelphia: 7 hours
- From Charlotte: 6:30 minutes
Why visit the Outer Banks?
The Outer Banks are one of the most beautiful and interesting beach destinations in the United States. With its white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, historic lighthouses, wild horses, family-friendly attractions and amazing seafood restaurants, there’s something here for everyone! Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an adventure-packed vacation, the Outer Banks has something to offer everyone.
What adventure sports are there in the Outer Banks?
I first learned about the Outer Banks reading a National Geographic Adventure article about the top 13 places in the world to Kitesurf. Not knowing anything about OBX or kitesurfing I was immediately curious. Since spending time on Hatteras Island I’ve learned this is one of the best places in the world to sport fish because the continental shelf is so close to the island. There are so many great surf breaks there’s hardly a reason to sit at a crowded break, though the lighthouse is pretty busy with locals and professionals. There are tons of skateparks, Stand up paddleboarding, kayaking, and any other beach game you can think of.
What’s the weather like?
The Outer Banks offer a mild climate year-round. It can be quite hot in the summer months with temperatures reaching as high as 90 degrees Fahrenheit and humidity levels soaring. During the winter months, temperatures drop to around 40 degrees F and rarely fall below freezing. The best time to visit is either late Spring or early Fall when you can enjoy moderate temperatures and less humidity.
If you’re visiting the Outer Banks to sit quietly on the beach do keep in mind that in the Spring and Fall, it can get quite windy, which is why it’s one of the best kiteboarding destinations in the world, so check the wind forecast to make sure you prepare for your visit accordingly.
How much does it cost to rent a house in Outer Banks?
The cost of renting a house in the Outer Banks varies depending on the size and location. Generally speaking, rental rates tend to be much higher during the summer months when more people are visiting the area. Rates can start as low as $400 per night for a small beach cottage up to $2,000 per night or more for luxury homes with multiple bedrooms and amenities. For a more budget-friendly option, consider looking for beach vacation rental homes that are off-season or located slightly away from the beach.
You can also find great deals on Airbnb and HomeAway, as well as other vacation rental sites like VRBO. Prices vary based on the time of year and availability, so be sure to shop around.
Is the Outer Banks cheap?
The Outer Banks can be considered relatively affordable compared to other beach destinations, especially in the off-season. Accommodations are generally cheaper than what you would find in larger cities such as Washington DC or New York City. So the easiest way to answer that, is it cheap compared to where? I moved to the east coast from Lake Tahoe so vacationing in the Outer Banks is nearly free by comparison, but if you’re used to all-inclusive resorts in Mexico you might be surprised at how expensive it can get.
What is so special about Outer Banks North Carolina, whats the big deal?
The Outer Banks has something special for everyone – from wild horses roaming the beaches to its rich history as the birthplace of flight. This barrier island is home to five historic lighthouses, a wide variety of outdoor activities, and some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. There’s also some of the freshest seafood around, with restaurants serving up locally-caught fish and shellfish. With its unique combination of natural beauty and historical significance, the Outer Banks is a must-see destination that will leave you with unforgettable memories. One thing that blew me away about OBX is the beaches are basically empty even in Summertime.
What are the major historical attractions in the Outer Banks?
The Outer Banks is home to a variety of historical attractions, including the Wright Brothers National Memorial, the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, and the cemetery where English explorer Sir Walter Raleigh’s crew is buried. There are also numerous museums and shipwrecks just off the coast that you can explore. History buffs will find plenty to see in this unique region.
What are some of the beach activities in Outer Banks?
The Outer Banks is a great place to try out a variety of beach activities, such as swimming, surfing, fishing, and sunbathing. The beaches here also offer plenty of opportunities for bird-watching, kiteboarding, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and beachcombing. In addition, there are plenty of shops and restaurants along the beaches where you can pick up souvenirs or grab a bite to eat. No matter what your interests are, the Outer Banks has something for everyone!
What wildlife can I expect to see in the Outer Banks?
The diverse wildlife of the Outer Banks is one of its main attractions. You can spot plenty of sea turtles and dolphins near the shoreline, while migrating birds like herons and ospreys are often seen flying overhead. On land, you can keep an eye out for wild horses roaming the beaches or white-tailed deer in more remote areas. Other wildlife that is native to the area includes raccoons, foxes, and opossums. Whether you’re a birdwatcher or just looking for a peaceful stroll along the beach, you can be sure to spot some amazing wildlife during your stay in the Outer Banks.
Is Outer Banks warm all year?
The Outer Banks is warmer than most of the east coast in the winter months but can get quite cold in the Winter. The warmest temperatures occur from May through September and average around 80 degrees Fahrenheit (27 Celsius). In the winter, temperatures can dip into the 40s (4-9 Celsius) so it’s important to pack layers if you’re planning on spending time outdoors. The ocean stays relatively warm throughout the year and is a great way to cool off during the summer months. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with an average of 2-3 inches (5-7 cm) per month. Remember it’s a windy destination so pack a kite!
How many islands make up the Outer Banks?
The Outer Banks is a chain of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina and consists of four main islands: Bodie Island, Hatteras Island, Ocracoke Island, and Roanoke Island. There are also several smaller islands scattered throughout the region that make up part of the Outer Banks. Altogether, these islands stretch for over 200 miles and are a paradise for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. There’s something here for everyone to enjoy!
Can I camp in the Outer Banks?
Yes! The Outer Banks has plenty of spots to camp, from primitive sites located along the beach to RV parks with more modern amenities. There are also a few campgrounds located in national and state parks, as well as sites near the sound and other popular outdoor destinations.
Is staying at an Airbnb cheaper than renting from a realty company?
In general, I would say no, but remember rental platforms like VRBO and Airbnb let you choose from a wide variety of vacation rentals to choose from. You are also paying the owner of the property directly so there isn’t a realtor between you and the person benefitting from your rental.
What is the most popular Airbnb in the Outer Banks?
I’m obviously biased but OBX has a ton of amazing rentals, so it depends on which island you want to visit. If you choose Hatteras then you should definitley check out our funky Geodesic Dome, and ocean-front Octagon for your next beach vacation.
