What to Do in the Outer Banks in May

If soft shell crabs aren’t your thing, try a traditional Outer Banks seafood boil. Local shrimp, snow crab legs, andouille sausage, corn on the cob, and potatoes are steamed together and served in the center of the table to create an unforgettable vacation meal. Pick up a grab-and-go seafood boil kit at a local market, or leave the OBX seafood boil cooking and serving to the experts at Firehouse Boil Delivery.

Hooked On Fishing

It’s no secret that the Outer Banks is home to world-class fishing year-round. Just check out our Guide to OBX Fishing. Although we boast the best all year, May is when things really start heating up! As the temperatures rise, so do your chances of a successful outing, particularly if you are surf fishing. With migratory fish, like red and black drum, moving along the North Carolina coastline, you have a good shot at bringing home a delicious dinner. But before you head out fishing, make sure you check off all the boxes: do the right research, get the gear, and most importantly, pin down that permit. Or book an all-day offshore fishing trip to reel in the big fish. 

OBX Rod & Custom Festival

If the fish aren’t biting, head over to see some sweet custom rides at the OBX Rod & Custom Festival, happening May 1-2, 2026. Automobile enthusiasts and folks of all ages look forward to this fun event each spring. The event takes place at the Soundside Event Site in Nags Head and includes cruise-ins, static displays, food, and family-friendly fun. All proceeds from the event benefit the local Outer Banks community.

Fun Activities for Kids

Artrageous is an annual art festival for kids that takes place on Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. This free event at Dowdy Park in Nags Head includes kids’ art activities, live music, dance performances, an artisan market, and food vendors.

Aside from festivals and planned events, many things to do with kids on the Outer Banks kick off for the season in May. There are also many free things to do on the Outer Banks during the spring months.

Looking for a casual, free activity to burn off some energy? There are parks and playgrounds located in every town on the Outer Banks. Be sure to check your vacation home’s community amenities as well – many have playgrounds within walking distance.

Go For A Climb

Perhaps you’re looking to step back in time for a glimpse into the rich history of the Outer Banks or maybe you simply want to walk off all that delicious seafood you’ve been eating all week! In any case, we recommend climbing one of our historic lighthouses. While only three out of the five lighthouses allow climbers, many visitors make it a challenge to visit every single one or add a daily climb to their routine. For more information, visit our Guide to OBX Lighthouses: Know Where and When to Go.

Amazing Amenities

Although in May we’re one step closer to consistently sunny days, we still have the occasional dreary day…or even a few days. It’s times like these that indoor amenities take center stage, like media and game rooms. Continue celebrating May the Fourth by kicking back in your personal home theater with a Star Wars marathon. We have plenty of other suggestions for things to do on the Outer Banks when it’s raining if you happen to experience unfavorable weather during your stay. You’ll have so much fun, you’ll forget it was even raining!

Hang Gliding Spectacular

Just like the crabs, this warm weather has us coming out of our shells! May welcomes many exciting events back to the OBX, including the Annual Hang Gliding Spectacular! Experience the longest-running hang gliding competition in the world. Join professional hang gliders at Jockey’s Ridge State Park, May 14-17, 2026, for this incredible, long-standing tradition. Not around for the event, but still want to check out hang gliding? Head over to Kitty Hawk Kites for a hang gliding lesson. Or keep your feet on the ground and fly one of their kites!