Your Guide to the Outer Banks
Whether you are planning your first trip to the Outer Banks or returning for you annual summer beach vacation, there is always an adventure that awaits you. From breathtaking beaching, historic landmarks, fresh seafood, and must-try sweet treats, there’s something for everyone. Keep scrolling to see my top pics for things to do, places to see, the best places grab a bite, and the sweetest sweet spots.
Best Things To Do in The Outer Banks
Dowdy Park
Inclusive playground, splash pad, sports including: basketball and pickleball, walking trails, fitness classes, farmers market, live music and movie night, and more
Mini Golf
Galaxy Golf, Professor Hackers, Pirates Island, Corolla Adventure Golf and Bumper Cars, Frisco Mini-Gold and Go-Karts
Go-Karts
Full throttle Speedway, Corolla Adventure Golf and Bumper Cars, Frisco Mini-Golf and Go-Kart, Nags Head Raceway
First Flight Adventure Park
14 ziplines and 50 obstacles
Outlets Nags Head
shop national brands and local favorites, outdoor seating and yard games
North Carolina Aquarium
explore the waters of the Outer Banks, learn more about sea turtles, and experience many interactive exhibits
Piers and Boardwalks
Jeanette’s Pier, Duck Town Park Boardwalk, Avon Fishing Pier, Avalon Fishing Pier, Rodanthe Pier, Nags Head Fishing Pier, Manteo Waterfront Park, Outer Banks Fishing Pier
Lighthouses
Brodie Island Lighthouse, Currituck Beach Lighthouse, Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, Ocracoke Lighthouse, Cape Lookout Lighthouse,
And More
Hiking, Bike Rentals, Surfing Lessons, Laser Tags, Arcades
Best Food In the Outer Banks
Tortuga’s Lie
This restaurant is the most recommended by locals and travelers. They give a nice Caribbean Flare to their food. Order any of their jerk-seasoned dishes, fish tacos, or their coco loco chicken. Don’t skip out on dessert either. Their coconut cream pie and key lime pies are delicious.
Miller’s Waterfront
Offering grilled seafood, a sunset bar and grill on the second floor that offers great selections of beers and beautiful views. Don’t miss out on their homemade pies.
Black Pelican
This place is highly recommended by locals. They serve fresh, locally sourced seafood, steak, and wood-fired pizzas.
Tale of the Whale
This restaurant is a family owned restaurant that offers a wide variety menu of fresh seafood, steaks, and pasta dishes. This is a bit of an upscale vibe. Don’t miss out on the she-crab soup and the grilled fish trio.
Kill Devil’s Custard and Beach Fries
This is a patio, outside style restaurant. Not only do they have custard, they have some delicious beach fries. Offering many different seasonings and add-on, these fries are the perfect salty snack. They also offer burgers, chicken nuggets, and hush-puppies. Don’t forget to bring your fur babies to get a sweet pup cup.
Best Sweet Treats In the Outer Banks
Surf’n Spoon
I loved this frozen sweet spot so much, we went a couple of times during our trip. Everything here is homemade and uses all natural ingredients. They have frozen yogurt and gelato, ice cream sandwiches using cookies that are homemade, and over 50 toppings like fresh fruit, nuts, candies, cake bites, and more. They also support the Surf for Autism by taking donations.
The Spot
I loved the vibrant, chill vibes The Spot gave. They offer many yummy treats including açaí bowls, smoothies, ice cream, coffees, and more. I got a Banana Split and is was delicious.
Kill Devil’s Frozen Custard and Beach Fries
Do not skip out on this Frozen Custard! This is the top favorite place by locals and visitors. This custard is made fresh hourly every day. Also grab a bucket f beach fries and bring your furry friends for a pup cup.
Booty Treats
Booty Treats is the most visited spot by locals and travelers. They offer hand dipped Hershey’s ice cream, shaved ice, handmade cookie sandwiches, and old fashioned milk shakes.
Fatboyz Ice Cream and Grill
Outdoor, patio seating vibes. Offering hand-dipped and soft-serve ice cream options. Order specialty Sundays, floats, flurries, milkshakes, or their popular waffle cone tacos. Lots of beverages and fast food items available too. Be sure to bring your fur friends for a pup cup as well!
No matter what you choose to do with your time in the Outer Banks, you are sure to create memories that will last you a life time. I hope this list will help give you an idea of what’s to come on your next trip.