Off-Season Outer Banks Itinerary by Town

Explore the Outer Banks by Town in the off-season!

Blog / OBX Guides
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The off-season is the perfect time to visit the Outer Banks towns! You may typically stay just within the town limits that you are staying in, but now that the weather has cooled down, it’s the perfect time to get out and see things you’ve never gotten the chance to experience. We have put together an itinerary with the highlights of each area. Spend your vacation exploring all that the Outer Banks has to offer!

Corolla

Starting the furthest north, Corolla is full of rich history and fun. Some of the historical landmarks you have likely driven by, but take the time to stop and enjoy the beautiful scenery! The off-season is a quiet time in Corolla, so take advantage of the short commute up Highway 12.

  • Visit the Currituck Beach Lighthouse and climb to the top for stunning aerial views.
  • Explore Whalehead and Historic Corolla Park. This is the perfect place to bring a picnic lunch while you take in the views.
  • Corolla Village is a charming part of the town where you will find a few shops and more historic buildings.
  • You don’t want to miss taking a wild horse tour. If you’ve never been on the 4×4 beach, it is a must! 

 

Duck

The quaint Town of Duck is so fun to explore on foot! Grab a coffee from Duck’s Cottage, one of our favorite OBX coffee shops, and see everything the town has to offer.

  • Walk the waterfront boardwalk if it’s something you’ve never seen before! From shops to restaurants, the almost mile-long path will keep you busy for hours.
  • There are shops, clothing boutiques, and even a store for your pup that you won’t want to miss in the heart of the town.
  • Treat yourself to an exceptional culinary experience with a view of the sound. The Blue Point offers creative chefs offering locally sourced seafood and Southern fare. NC Coastal Grill & Bar is an iconic restaurant featuring modern coastal cuisine that will have you planning your next OBX vacation so you can come back for more.
  • Duck is an ideal destination to watch the sunset. With daylight savings time in full swing, you can catch the most beautiful show on earth before sitting down to dinner.

 

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Kill Devil Hills

Kill Devil Hills is centrally located and offers activities for everyone. Spend some time outside in the birthplace of aviation!

  • If you haven’t stopped to see the Wright Brothers Memorial, it is an Outer Banks must! You will be humbled by the story of two brothers that changed the world from right here in Kill Devil Hills.
  • There are biking and walking trails at the Wright Brothers Memorial, which are a great way to experience the monument actively. This is a perfect off-season activity, as the weather is cooler!
  • Whether you’re an avid player or new to Disc Golf, you’ll want to check out The Casey R Logan Disc Golf Course. It has 18 holes and is free to the public.
  • Be sure to stroll down the Avalon Pier to take in the salty air, or bring your fishing pole and tackle box for hours of fun. Admission to Avalon Pier is free in December, January, and February. 
Jockey's Ridge

Nags Head

Nags Head paints the classic picture of the Outer Banks. If you’re staying on the northern beaches, you will definitely want to make your way to this quintessential Outer Banks town!

  • Nags Head boasts three Piers, and you will want to experience them all. The Nags Head Fishing Pier is located at milepost 11.5, Jennette’s Pier is located at milepost 16.5, and The Outer Banks Fishing Pier is located at milepost 18.5.
  • Jockey’s Ridge is breathtaking to see as you’re driving by, but it’s even better to experience on foot! 
  • Nags Head Woods offers hiking trails for explorers of every level. Take some time to unwind in the beauty of nature. 
  • If you’re ready to shop till you drop, head to Gallery Row. Here, you’ll find some unique art and jewelry stores, as well as coastal art galleries to explore. 

Manteo

Take a turn off of Highway 12 to head over the Town of Manteo located on Roanoke Island. This may be a town you’ve never visited, but it will soon become one of your favorites. 

  • Walk along the downtown waterfront and visit the shops while enjoying the scenery.
  • Outer Banks Distilling in Manteo is the place to find Kill Devil Rum, small batch spirits crafted right on the Outer Banks. We highly recommend visiting for a unique experience you can’t find anywhere else on the OBX. 
  • The Elizabethan Gardens is a whimsical place to spend an afternoon. Open year-round, the flowering landscape will delight you, and as things change seasonally, you will always find something new.
  • The North Carolina Aquarium is an indoor activity you can enjoy in the off-season and all year! Visit the aquarium in the morning before an afternoon at the Elizabethan Gardens for an ideal day in Manteo.

 

You could take a day to drive through all of the Outer Banks Towns and check one thing off the itinerary per town, or you could take a few days and undertake the whole list! Take advantage of the shoulder season to experience the Outer Banks in new ways. Need more suggestions on places to go and things to do? Follow us on social media where we showcase local favorites and must-see OBX experiences.

 

Getting hungry while exploring?

We have delicious recommendations for every town! It’s always a great idea to explore with your appetite as well.

Twiddy & Company

Twiddy & Company

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