What to Do in the Outer Banks in September

If you’re visiting the Outer Banks in September, you’re in for a treat! Commonly referred to as the “locals’ summer,” the weather on the Outer Banks in September is arguably the nicest of any month of the year. With average high temperatures in the low 80s and average low temperatures in the high 60s, the weather is perfect for the beach. The ocean temperature is pleasant as well, ranging from 75 to 78 degrees. Traffic and crowds tend to be thinner too, as many families have transitioned back to school and fall sports. Fall is on the horizon; however, there are still plenty of things to do in the OBX in September.

Long Beach Days Climb a Lighthouse Play Disc Golf Enjoy Local Coffee Local Events

What about hurricanes on the Outer Banks in September?

Hurricane season runs from June 1st through November 30th, but September has traditionally been the most active month for hurricanes to impact the Outer Banks. A hurricane’s impact on the OBX can range from rough surf from a storm off the coast to a direct hit that can cause wind damage and flooding. Many Septembers, the Outer Banks experiences high surf from offshore storms, delighting many surfers who enjoy riding the hurricane swell.

Spend Long Days on the Beach

With late summer temperatures still on the agenda, it’s pleasant enough to spend the entire day on the beach and then hang outside during the evenings. The ocean temperature is generally warm on the Outer Banks in September, between 75 and 80 degrees, which is perfect for swimming. Many days of the month, the ocean water is crystal clear and looks quite tropical. For those in your group who surf or would like to learn to surf, there are normally an above-average number of days in September when the swell is just right.

Your dog can join in on the beach fun, too! Many OBX towns have restrictions on when dogs are allowed on the beach, and most pet regulations change around Labor Day or the middle of September. Be mindful of the air temperature on overly warm September days – the sand can still get hot enough to burn paws.

Climb a Lighthouse

OBX lighthouses are one of the most identifiable landmarks of the area. Learn a little about Outer Banks’ history while visiting one of these iconic beacons. Get a birdseye view of the OBX, from the ocean to the sound. Not a fan of heights? Visiting the lighthouse grounds is still an excellent experience and will leave you with top-notch vacation photos. Each of the five OBX lighthouses has a different story and gives you the opportunity to explore a different town.

this week on the outer banks - bodie island lighthouse

Play Disc Golf

Disc golf is a fun family-friendly activity and the Outer Banks happens to have a really fun course. Located in Kill Devil Hills, the Casey R. Logan Disc Golf Course offers a break from the sun as almost the entire course is wooded. Grab a disc and wind your way through the coastal maritime forest. You’ll get a nice view of the sound at hole 5, and quite a challenge through the sand dunes at hole 16.

On the Outer Banks and need a disc or two? Stop by Ace Hardware, Kellogg Supply Company, or the Outer Banks Disc Golf store in Metro Rental to pick up a disc on your way to the course. To reach the course, turn onto Colington Road from the bypass. You’ll pass the Wright Brothers Memorial on your right. Turn left onto Veterans Drive at the stoplight. Take the first right out of the traffic circle and continue toward the football field. Follow the gravel road to the right of the football field to the end and you’ll see the course entrance on the right.

There are three additional disc golf courses on and around the Outer Banks, in Currituck County, Manteo, and Frisco. Play the course at Currituck County Rural Center and then stop by Sanctuary Vineyards for a glass of local wine before heading back to your vacation home.

Not into disc golf? Try mini-golf instead! There is a mini golf course in almost every Outer Banks town. Each mini golf course has a different fun theme and is a fun activity for all ages.

Have a Cup of Coffee and Catch Your Breath

If you’re a fan of small local coffee shops, you’re in luck! The Outer Banks has a fantastic collection of coffee shops, each one with its own unique flair.

The Kind Cup in Corolla is a small-batch coffee roaster as well as a local OBX artisan cooperative, so you can shop for one-of-a-kind souvenirs while you’re waiting for your Honeydew Latte.

In the heart of Duck Village, the longstanding Duck’s Cottage is waiting for you to stroll in and order a Mucky Duck. Or try a cup of their tasty signature brew, Coconut Crunch. Coconut Crunch beans are also sold by the pound if you’d like to take some home. Pick up your next beach read at Duck’s Cottage, as it is also a book store, showcasing new releases and many books about the Outer Banks.

Ashley’s Espresso Parlour in Kill Devil Hills is an eclectic shop offering a variety of handcrafted beverages and pastries in a fun and inviting atmosphere. Fair Trade coffee beans are carefully selected and roasted onsite at Ashley’s. Throughout the shop, local OBX artwork is on full display and available for purchase.

Be sure to stop by Charis Coffee Company in Downtown Manteo. If you find yourself there on a Friday, treat yourself to one (or more!) of their delicious cruffins.

Local Events Happening on the Outer Banks in September

The peak of summer may have passed, but there’s no shortage of events happening on the Outer Banks in September.

The Outer Banks Kite Festival, presented by Kitty Hawk Kites, is happening at Jockey’s Ridge Friday, September 12th, and Saturday, September 13th in 2025. Large kites will be on display, and professionals will perform stunt kite demonstrations.

The Lighthouse 5K Series in Corolla continues until mid-September. The 5K takes place at Historic Corolla Park on Wednesday mornings.

The ESA Easterns Surfing Championships takes place at Jennette’s Pier in Nags Head, September 14-20, 2025. Come on out and watch the talented amateur competitors shred.

The Surfalorus Film Festival is a three-day celebration showcasing the best surf films of the year. It takes place at Jennette’s Pier September 15-17, 2025, in conjunction with the surf competition happening at the same time.

The OBX Jeep Invasion is an event where Jeep enthusiasts gather to celebrate the Jeep lifestyle and raise funds for local charities. The three-day event happens Thursday, September 18th, through Saturday, September 20th in 2025.

Live music continues throughout the Outer Banks in September. Check out the Tap Shack at Cravings in Duck or the brewing pioneers over at Outer Banks Brewing Station in Kill Devil Hills.

Looking for Restaurants to Visit on the OBX in September?

It’s always a great time to try some fresh Outer Banks seafood. Visit one of our favorite OBX seafood restaurants or purchase some fresh local seafood to cook at your vacation home.

Top Selections

Oceanfront Rentals

Pet-Friendly Rentals

Beach Houses