The Outer Banks refers to a long chain of barrier islands way out off the coast of North Carolina. We're talking over 175 miles of islands, separated from the mainland by shallow bays stretching nearly 30 miles across.
It is becoming one of the top vacation picks outside of Ohio. Between the soft sandy beaches, wild horses roaming free and unbelievably awesome places to stay, an OBX vacation is the hottest thing to escape for some quality time.
The OBX beaches are just a half day's drive from big cities like Charlotte, Washington DC, Raleigh and Richmond. And there's way more to do than just the usual beach bumming - we're talking shipwreck diving, protected parks, and tons of completely unique adventures.
If you’re keen to explore this little slice of coastal heaven, you're probably wondering exactly how to get yourself there. Well, buckle up as this blog will tell you everything you need to know.
Finding an Airport Close By
If you need to fly in from afar, there are a couple options for airports fairly close to the OBX. But fair warning - you'll still have a decent drive ahead before you hit the soft sand.
Your best bet is Norfolk International Airport in Norfolk, Virginia. From the Norfolk airport to Nags Head is about a 1.5-2 hour drive. This airport has direct flights from many cities, even as far as Phoenix and Vegas. 13 airlines fly in and out of Norfolk International (ORF), including most major carriers.
Another option is Raleigh-Durham Airport about 3-4 hours west of the Outer Banks beaches. Way more direct flight options here, but you pay for it with the longer schlep behind the wheel. No matter which airport, make sure to book yourself some transportation as soon as those tires hit the ground.
If money's no object, you can always charter a private plane or a helicopter and land at local airports or landing strips at the islands. We're talking the Pine Island Airport, Outer Banks Heliport, and Ocracoke Island Airport.Roanoke Island is also home to the Dare County Regional Airport.
Cruising the Highways to OBX Paradise
There are only 2 main roads that take you to OBX: US 158 (also called the Bypass Road) and Highway 12 (the official beach road).
Both these roads first hit the banks around Kitty Hawk and Nags Head. So depending on exactly where you’re staying on the OBX, you potentially have even more quality drive time before you arrive at your home away from home.
From Kitty Hawk down to Ocracoke is another 3 hours, so choose your lodgings wisely based on how much time you want behind the wheel during your vacation.
Island Hopping the OBX Ferry Way
If you plan to post up on Ocracoke Island specifically, there are a couple of shortcuts to get yourself over the water and onto the silky sands besides slogging 3 hours south from Kitty Hawk.
There are 3 different Outer Banks ferry options:
If you’re coming down from the mainland, choose either the Cedar Island Ferry (from Southern Pamlico Sound) or the Swan Quarter Ferry up north. Both take around 2.5 hours to reach Ocracoke. Check their official site for schedules and ticket prices.
If you’re already beach bumping on the OBX and headed for Ocracoke, take the 1 hour Hatteras-Ocracoke Ferry to hop islands right quick. This freebie lets you drive your wheels onboard and span the Hatteras Inlet to land on Ocracoke’s north side. Or leave the car behind and pay a small fee to walk onto their passenger-only express ferry.
In peak season, be sure to make ferry reservations (small extra fee) and get there early to avoid wait lists.
Hopefully you now see all the sweet options to get yourself over to the Outer Banks islands. For the true OBX experience, we recommend driving down to the northern beaches first, road tripping all the way down the entire chain of islands, then catching a ferry home from Ocracoke Island.