7 Exceptional Outer Banks Spots to Delight Mom on the OBX
Mother’s Day arrives once a year, but there’s no need to wait. Treat your mom, the mother of your children, or even yourself to well-deserved island relaxation on the Outer Banks (OBX). These seven top destinations offer perfect ways to create lasting memories.
1. Pampering at Top OBX Spas
Everyone benefits from a spa day. Indulge her with a massage, facial, or other luxurious treatments at premier spots like AquaSpa and Sanderling Resort on the northern beaches, Koru Village along Cape Hatteras National Seashore, and many options in the towns between.
2. Shopping in Duck
Without big cities, the Outer Banks shines through its charming villages. Duck offers ideal boutique shopping and browsing in unique gift shops and jewelry stores, all against a stunning coastal backdrop—perfect for a relaxed afternoon with Mom.
3. Elizabethan Gardens
Created as a memorial to the lost Roanoke colonists after 1587, these enchanting gardens feature vibrant flowers, statues, and trees inspired by historic Elizabethan designs.
4. Lighthouse Tour
The Outer Banks’ iconic lighthouses guard its shores. Among America’s oldest and tallest, Bodie Island and Cape Hatteras Lighthouses welcome ground tours (climbing resumes next year). View the Cape Hatteras summit via our newest webcam.
5. Watch “The Lost Colony” Play
Centuries ago, over 100 English settlers vanished from Roanoke Island. Their mysterious tale comes alive in summer performances of The Lost Colony, staged near the original site.
6. Tour the Wright Brothers National Memorial
The Wright Brothers achieved the first powered flight atop Kill Devil Hills over a century ago. Explore this fascinating memorial in Kill Devil Hills. New for 2021: Ride the first self-driving vehicle tested on public lands.
7. Spot the House from “Nights in Rodanthe”
Featured in the Richard Gere and Diane Lane film (based on Nicholas Sparks’ novel), this real Rodanthe house and village are as picturesque as on screen. Drive scenic Highway 12 to find it—and cross the engineering marvel, Basnight Bridge over Oregon Inlet.
Give Mom more this year: Check our Bucket List for exciting challenges and book your OBX spring getaway.
