Outer Banks (OBX) First Impressions: A New North Carolina Resident's Ultimate Vacation Guide
Newly Relocated to North Carolina? A Couple's Essential Guide to Vacationing in the Outer Banks
After moving to Charlotte earlier this year, we were eager to explore North Carolina's stunning landscapes. The pandemic delayed our plans, but with summer in full swing and restrictions easing, we escaped quarantine fatigue thanks to an invitation from TheOuterBanksNC. The promise of pristine beaches and Atlantic Ocean views lifted our spirits, but OBX offered far more than we anticipated.
Read on for our top recommendations from an extended weekend trip—we can't wait to return for more discoveries!
WHERE TO STAY
The Outer Banks (OBX) is a 100-mile string of barrier islands along North Carolina's coastline, just south of Virginia. We based ourselves in Manteo, a charming town on Roanoke Island—known as 'The Lost Colony' for its role in America's early settlements.
Tranquil House Inn—This waterfront gem in Manteo provided a serene 'work-from-OBX' retreat. Overlooking Shallowbag Bay and downtown Manteo, the 19th-century-style inn was a welcome escape from our city high-rise. No wonder Richard Gere and Diane Lane stayed here while filming the 2008 romance Nights in Rodanthe.
MUST-DO EXPERIENCES
OBX brims with unique adventures. Here are our highlights from the first visit.
Sunset Sail, Manteo—A private romantic sail was long on our bucket list. Sail Outer Banks, just steps from our inn, delivered with Captain Dan's expertise. It's an ideal, socially distanced evening on the water.
Jockey's Ridge State Park, Nags Head—The East Coast's tallest sand dunes (80-100 feet) create a surreal landscape. Spot them from Beach Bypass Road. At sunset, join hikers, sandboarders, and kite flyers (rent from Kitty Hawk Kites). Unmissable vibes!
Biplane Ride, Manteo—Nerve-wracking at first in an open cockpit at 130 mph, but the views of lighthouses, marshes, beaches, and the Atlantic are breathtaking. Affordable thrills await at OBX Airplanes.
Beach Bonfire, Cape Hatteras—Nothing beats a romantic bonfire as the sky shifts from blue to pink. Permits are required on select beaches; source wood from local hardware stores. Follow all rules for safety.
Stargazing, Cape Hatteras—OBX is a premier dark-sky destination. Post-bonfire, we were stunned by the Milky Way en route home. Plan to linger on the beach after dusk for this galactic spectacle.
Sunrise at Jennette's Pier—Start your day strolling OBX's 100+ miles of coastline. Jennette's Pier offered candy-colored skies, fishing action, and gentle breezes—perfectly convenient from Manteo.
OTHER HIGHLIGHTS TO TRY NEXT TIME
We skipped these but they're on our list:
- Wild Horse Tours—Spot Corolla's iconic horses via jeep or 4x4 beach drive (maintain distance).
- Wright Brothers National Memorial—Visit Kill Devil Hills, birthplace of aviation.
- Fishing Piers—OBX has plenty; bring your gear.
- Abundant Wildlife—Turtles, dolphins, alligators, bears, wolves, bobcats in Pea Island or Alligator River refuges.
- Guided Horseback Riding—Try Equine Adventures in Cape Hatteras.
- Elizabethan Gardens—Seasonal blooms and sculptures in Manteo.
WHERE TO EAT
As vegetarians, we loved Avenue Waterfront Grille in Manteo—try Crispy Tofu Tacos and Hippie Burger with bay views.
Breakfast gems: Front Porch Cafe's spinach-cheese turnovers; Charis Cafe's bagels, iced mochas, and unique prayer wall.
Cape Hatteras pizza: Angelo's Pizza—top-tier!
Sweet treats: Duck Donuts (custom-fried); ice cream for daytime heat relief.
TIPS FOR YOUR TRIP
- 5-6 hours from Charlotte (stops in Raleigh/Durham); closer from Virginia.
- Opt for quaint towns like Manteo or Hatteras for fewer crowds.
- Free fun: dunes, bonfires, 4x4 beach drives.
- Summer heat calls for loose clothing.
- Pack beach essentials and sunscreen. Enjoy responsibly!
