What makes OBX a great holiday destination

The Outer Banks is that hidden gem of the East Coast, where history meets the sea and adventure awaits around every corner. It is the perfect holiday destination for anyone looking to escape the daily grind and immerse themselves in a world of sun, sand, and sea. This stunning stretch of coastline boasts over 100 miles of pristine beaches, picturesque lighthouses, and a rich maritime heritage that has captivated visitors for centuries.

From kayaking through scenic marshes to fishing for your own fresh catch of the day, this stretch of North Carolina coastline offers endless opportunities for outdoor fun. And if you're more interested in soaking up the local culture, the Outer Banks won't disappoint. Savor the flavors of fresh seafood and southern cuisine, explore charming seaside towns and historic sites. From the iconic Wright Brothers National Memorial to the wild horses that roam the beaches, the Outer Banks offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities that make it an exclusive holiday destination. So, whether you are searching for the perfect surf, a quiet stretch of sand to unwind or looking for a romantic getaway or a family-friendly adventure, the Outer Banks is the place to be, exceeding your expectations.

Here are some of the top reasons the Outer Banks make a great holiday destination.

  • Beautiful Beaches

    The Outer Banks is known for its stunning beaches and is home to some of the most beautiful beaches on the East Coast. With over 100 miles of coastline, there are plenty of options for beachgoers of all kinds. The beaches are wide and clean and perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing.

  • Rich History

    OBX has a rich and diverse history dating back to the 16th century. Some of the key events and highlights of its history are -

    • English Colonization in the late 16th century when Sir Walter Raleigh established the first English colonies on Roanoke Island, which is now part of the Outer Banks. However, the settlers mysteriously disappeared.

    • During the 17th and 18th centuries, the Outer Banks was a haven for pirates, including the infamous Blackbeard.

    • In 1903, the Wright Brothers chose the Outer Banks as the location for their first successful flightin Kill Devil Hills, on December 17th.

    • The Outer Banks is known as the "Graveyard of the Atlantic" due to the many shipwrecks that occurred off its coastand the remnants of these wrecks can still be seen today.

    • During the Civil War, the Outer Banks was an important strategic location for both the Union and Confederate armies.

    • Due to its location, the Outer Banks is vulnerable to hurricanes along the Atlantic coast, including Hurricane Isabel in 2003 and Hurricane Dorian in 2019.

  • Unique Wildlife

    Outer Banks is home to a variety of unique wildlife species, both on land and in the water. Some of the most notable are the famous wild horses, the endangered loggerhead sea turtles, piping plovers and red wolves.

    The brown pelican with distinctive long beaks, Black Skimmers and American Oystercatchers are a common sight along the beaches of the OBX.The Bottlenose Dolphins are often seen swimming and playing in the waters around the OBX.

    You can take a guided tour to see these animals up close and learn about their habitats and behaviors.

  • Water Sports

    The Outer Banks is an extremely popular destination for water sports enthusiastsdue to its miles of coastline, consistent wind and waves, and warm water temperatures during the summer months. The consistent swell and wind and the clam shallow waters makes it a great spot for water sports throughout the year. There are several schools, rental shops and guided tours for every sport in the area.

    Some of the top water sports activities to enjoy in OBX are surfing, kiteboarding, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), kayaking, jet skiing, parasailing. Overall, OBX is a great place to enjoy a variety of water sports activities, whether you're a beginner or an experienced enthusiast.

  • Outdoor Activities

    When it comes to the outdoors, the Outer Banks is a haven for lovers of outdoor activities because of its natural beauty and mild climate. The area has several state parks and nature preserves, such as Jockey's Ridge State Park and Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge. Some of the top outdoor activities to enjoy in OBX are birdwatching, hiking in the numerous beautiful state parks with a variety of hiking trails through forests, sand dunes, and along the coastline. Biking and fishing are popular activities along with beachcombing, which has guided tours also.

    With OBX being home to several stunning golf courses, golfing is very popular among golf enthusiasts of all levels.

  • Festivals &Events

    The Outer Banks hosts several festivals and events throughout the yearwith something for visitors of all ages and interests. There are multiple events every months, but some of the top festivals and events in OBXofferingvisitors a chance to experience local culture and traditions are -

    • Outer Banks Taste of the Beachfood festival in March offers visitors the chance to sample local cuisine, attend cooking classes and wine tastings, and participate in food-related activities.

    • The annual OBX Marathon in November attracts runners from around the world and offers stunning views of the ocean and local landmarks.

    • Outer Banks Seafood Festivalin October offers visitors the chance to sample local seafood, attend cooking demonstrations, and enjoy live music and entertainment.

    • Hang Gliding Spectaculartakes place in May and offers visitors the chance to watch hang gliders from around the world compete in various events.

    • Kitty Hawk Kites Outer Banks Stunt Kite Competitionin June offers visitors the chance to watch professional kite fliers compete in a variety of events.

      Wright Brothers National Memorial Anniversary Celebration takes place in December with a variety of activities and events.

  • Accessibility

    The Outer Banks is easily accessible by car or plane. The area is located just a few hours' drive from major cities like Raleigh and Norfolk, and there are several airports in the area, including Norfolk International Airport and Raleigh-Durham International Airport.

  • Affordable hotels

    The Outer Banks offers a variety of hotels and accommodations for travelers looking to save money and yet have a memorable holiday. There are several hotels and motels in OBX that offer affordable rates, especially during the off-season months. To book your hotel or to know more, you can check https://www.visitobx.com/hotels