What to Do on Check-In Day in the Outer Banks

First Day Best Day!

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Check-in day on the Outer Banks is arguably the most exciting day of the vacation. You have a whole week of fun and sun ahead of you! There’s nothing quite like driving over the bridge, rolling down the windows, and breathing in the ocean air. Many homes will not be ready for entry until after 4 pm. However, there is no shortage of things to do on the island and on the way in while our teams are working hard to get your vacation home ready for your arrival! Here’s our guide for what to do on check-in day while you wait for your home to be ready. Follow along on our map. If you’re coming from the north, start at stop 1. If you’re coming from the south or the west, start at stop 4. 

Currituck County Manteo On the Outer Banks Duck Corolla

Along the Highway

You don’t have to wait until you’re over the bridge to start the fun. There’s plenty to do on your way in along the highway. These stops will give you an enjoyable break from driving and a chance to stretch your legs.

Check-in Day Currituck

Coming From the North

Map Stop 1

Grandy Greenhouse

Stop at Grandy Greenhouse to pick up some local produce and other Southern goodies.

Map Stop 2

Sanctuary Vineyards

Sample wine at Sanctuary Vineyards in Jarvisburg.

Map Stop 3

H2OBX

Spend some time at H2OBX waterpark. This is a family-friendly destination with things to do for all ages- there’s even a bar for the adults in your group.

Coming From the South & West

Map Stop 4

Manteo

As you drive over Roanoke Island, stop in Manteo. Take a walk around the downtown area, stop in the boutiques, and grab a baked good and a cup of coffee at Charis Coffee Company. Walk down to the waterfront and along the boardwalk. Then drive over to the Elizabethan Gardens and take a stroll through the beautiful flowers and landscaped plants.

On the Outer Banks in Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, and Nags Head

Map Stop 5

Beach

Park at a public access and hit the beach. 

Map Stop 6

Mini golf

Mini golf is a great group activity for all ages. There are plenty of options for places to play mini golf in all of the Outer Banks towns.

Map Stop 7

Go out to Eat

Enjoy a meal out with your group at one of the many restaurants in the Outer Banks. There is something for everyone, from local seafood to Italian dining to Mexican cuisine.

Mike Dianna's Grill Room

Map Stop 8

Duck Town Park & Boardwalk

Duck Town Park & Boardwalk has so much to offer, you could spend all day there. Have lunch at Blue Point, Coastal Cantina, or NC Coast, take a walk along the boardwalk, stop in the shops, and spend some time at the playground if you have kids with you.

Map Stop 9

Grocery Shop

Get ready for the rest of your week by grocery shopping on check-in day. Check out our guide to grocery stores in the Outer Banks.

Map Stop 10

Currituck Lighthouse

Climb the Currituck Lighthouse for the best views in Corolla! Learn about the history of the lighthouse and browse the gift store.

If you’re ready to hit the beach after climbing the lighthouse, throw yourself and your group a welcome party. Coastal Daycation offers a Check-In Daycation Special on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. The package offers guests two beach chairs, an umbrella, a cooler of ice and water, towels, and a Bluetooth speaker with add-on options including games of brunch boards from Riggs & Brie to make a perfect first day of vacation. It’s a great option for those who wish to get to town early to beat traffic and looking to get some beach time in right away.

Map Stop 11

Corolla Village

If you’re staying in Corolla or on the 4×4 beaches, Corolla Village is a great place to stop and stay awhile. There are great options for lunch; Corolla Village BBQ, Juice Jar, and Corolla Pizza are our favorites. Grab a coffee and browse locally made goods at Kind Cup. Browse Island Bookstore for your beach reads for the week. If you have children in your group, stop by the playground in front of Twiddy’s office. Be sure to make a stop at Corolla Beer Garden as well. They have beer and wine and a great atmosphere for hanging out with family and friends.

We hope you enjoy your check-in day on the Outer Banks! With these suggestions, your beach vacation will surely be off to a great start.

Jenny Marty

Jenny Marty

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