The Outer Banks are barrier islands off the North Carolina coast, separating the Atlantic Ocean from the mainland. The Outer Banks offer less crowded beaches and away from the hustle and bustle. With 100+ miles of wide-open shoreline, the outer banks offers different towns within villages. We personally like to go all the way south to Hatteras, NC. We feel the further south you go, the less crowded and less touristy it gets. Sit back and relax, you’re on island time.
Things to do:
Beach- The obvious activity when in the outer banks is to go to the beach! There are several public beaches in all the villages. You can even drive on some of the beaches, with a permit and 4 x 4 vehicle.
Ghost crab hunting- Grab a flashlight and a net and head to the beach at night. When you start walking around with your flashlight, you’ll see many ghost crabs walking in the sand. You can use your net or hand to pick them up for a closer look, then let them go when done. If you have kids, they get such a kick out of it! Pro tip: Get glow stick bracelets. Necklaces, anklets to put on your kids to keep a better eye on them in the dark. Plus, what kid doesn’t love glow sticks?!
Crab fishing- With a long mesh net, some string, and crab bait (chicken necks), you’re ready to go fishing for blue crabs in the sound. Tie the chicken net onto the string at one end and simply put it down into the water to the ground. Watch or feel the crab grab it and start walking, then slowly lift up your string and put the net right underneath to catch it. We always catch and release because the crabs have to be a certain size to keep and ours are usually pretty small. Since we are “handlining” for recreation, you do not need a license.
Book a fishing charter
Sunset cruise Miss Hatteras
Where to Eat:
Orange Blossom Bakery and Cafe, Buxton, NC– Grab one of their famous Apple Uglies (apple fritter) or one of their tasty hot breakfast burritos. Pro tip: If you are a chocolate lover, ask for a “chugly”, a deliciously chocolate coated apple ugly.
Outer Banks Seafood Boil Company- Don’t want to cook or go out to a restaurant, but want fresh seafood? Book a seafood boil with Outer Banks Seafood Boil! They come to your house, prepare, cook, and clean up leaving you with a hot, cooked meal and a clean kitchen. It is quite delicious and a fun experience for all.
The Wreck
Sight Seeing:
Lighthouses
Museum
Ocracoke