Ocean breezes, sunshine, and relaxing on the sand...sounds like the ideal life style right? Well with winter ending, and summer vacations in the minds of many I(with the help of Tomcat) thought it was the perfect time to write about the fabulous Outer Banks. Located in North Carolina these pristine beaches provide amazing views, delicious foods, and plenty of memories. While our posts normally show how you can visit a place in one day, getting to and from the Outer Banks in one day is a little challenging unless you live near by and can quickly drive there. The closest airport is Norfolk International Airport at 82 miles away, or you can fly into Raleigh-Durham International Airport(if you do this option you could always visit
Raleigh as well!) If you fly into one of these places, be sure to rent a car so you can drive to the Outer Banks. The drive there is very scenic, and you can experience more of the great state of North Carolina!
The Outer Banks is made up of many different little cities and spots to stop by and enjoy the water and activities. Some of the bigger places include Corolla, Duck, Kitty Hawk, and Nags Head. In this post we will try to hit on some bigger aspects of all of these places to help fit your needs. If you want a quick trip, Kitty Hawk or Nags Head might be better to visit, while if you have more time try visiting Corolla or Duck. Duck was named one of the best dog friendly beaches in the US! As you start off your day in the Outer Banks you will probably want a sweet snack, so head on over to Duck Donuts. This "make your own donut" chain lets you mix and match and create amazing donut options that you would not be able to find anywhere else. Want maple syrup and bacon on your donut? You can have it! Want vanilla icing and sprinkles on your donut? You can have it! This shop will give you energy for the day, and let you begin your vacation.
After having a donut, find a local bike shop and rent a bike to enjoy a bike ride along the beach. There are multiple trails located all over the Outer Banks. You can rent any bikes you need at Just For The Beach which are located all over the Outer Banks. Bike trails allow you to see the beauty of the island. If you stay in a beach home, a lot of them offer bikes and give you trail maps. Otherwise check online for the part of the OBX you will be visiting for a list of bike trails.
After biking, you probably have worked yourself up an appetite, and are ready for lunch. Since you are at the beach, why not try some of the areas local seafood! If you are in the Kitty Hawk area try Awful Arthur's. Filled with lots of seafood options, everyone will be able to find something they like. Another option in Kitty Hawk to try is Steamers Restaurant. They offer dine in, take out with tables on an outdoor deck, or you could just pick up the food to go! The shrimp and fries are great!
By now you have had a delicious donut, a scenic bike ride, and a yummy lunch so you are probably ready to relax and spend some time at the beach. There are multiple public beaches located all over the Outer Banks. If you go to Kitty Hawk, there is a large pier right across from Awful Arthur's. Many of the "Just For The Beach" shops offer rentals on chairs and umbrellas, so if you are coming to the area for only a little bit this could be a great option. Walk up and down the shores collecting sea shells, or just set up a chair and sit while feeling the breeze.
Looking for more fun beach activities, why not try boogie boarding or surfing! Boogie boarding is a lot easier to pick up, so you can enjoy the water a lot quicker. A lot of stores and businesses in the area have surf classes, so if you want to learn you can. With either sport be sure to wear a rash guard as the sand can be rough on your skin! If you decide that those sound too adventurous for you, then just take in the views of the waves.
The Outer Banks offers additionally activities besides the beach, including bowling, malls, historical sights and more. If you visit longer be sure to look up the hotels in the area, or splurge and get a beach house rental! Normally these are offered in week long periods. These houses are your home away from home, and many are in communities that offer daily activities such as 5k's, themed dinners, and yoga classes! Below is a map showing the major towns in the Outer Banks, and some of the restaurants mentioned in this post. Additionally, we labeled some additionally sights you might want to visit depending on the length of your stay.
What did we miss in the Outer Banks that you would have seen? What is your favorite beach to visit? Be sure to tell us in the comments below. We are currently looking for deals on
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Blue skies,
Kat & Tomcat
