OBX, how do I love thee? Let me count the ways! There are simply too many things we adore about the Outer Banks of North Carolina to list in one blog post. However, we are going to do our best. After all, where else are you going to find majestic lighthouses, haunting shipwrecks, wild horses, and the freshest seafood all in one place?
Keep scrolling for our deep dive into a local’s perspective on why we love the Outer Banks.
Nine Reasons We Love the OBX
Unspoiled Beaches
From Ocracoke Island to the northern reaches of Corolla, the Outer Banks offers mile after mile of unspoiled beaches. There are approximately 130 miles of beautiful, uncrowded shoreline that are perfect for relaxing, shell-hunting, and soaking up the sun. Today, there are over five million annual visitors to the OBX, but you never feel cramped or crowded on our many beaches.
Rich History
The OBX is steeped in a rich and colorful past. Our remote shores were the ideal haven for pirates, and the treacherous shoals claimed many shipwrecks. From the Wright Brothers’ first flight to the mystery of the Lost Colony, the OBX is full of fascinating stories. Learn about our deep maritime history at the newly remodeled Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum in Hatteras or the U.S. Life Saving Station and Chicamacomico Historic Site.
Charming Towns
Did you know there are ten small towns and villages that make up the Outer Banks? From north to south, they include Corolla, Duck, Southern Shores, Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, Rodanthe, Waves, Salvo, Avon, Buxton, Frisco, Hatteras, and Ocracoke. Each community has its own personality and appeal. Duck is known for its charming boardwalk, Manteo is revered for its historic harbor, Corolla is beloved for its wild horses, and Ocracoke is synonymous with Blackbeard the Pirate.
Hidden Gems
North Carolina’s Outer Banks is a captivating destination brimming with history, adventure, and breathtaking scenery. However, the pirates weren’t the only ones to know a thing or two about treasure. Whether you’re a history buff, thrill-seeker, or simply looking to relax by the ocean, there are hidden gems along our coast that offer an authentic glimpse into the charm and character of the OBX. Go on a treasure hunt for our iconic horse statues, climb to the top of the Bodie Island Light Station, or dive one of the many shipwrecks off our coast.
There are also a ton of free and fun things to do here. Are you starting to see why we love the Outer Banks so much?
Incredible Sunrises, Sunsets, and Stars
Each day, the OBX is greeted by the rising sun as it peeks above the horizon over the Atlantic Ocean. Our east-facing beaches are the perfect locations to watch the sunrise early in the morning. Greeting the day, watching dolphins play in the surf, and listening to the gulls sing their morning song is a treasured pastime of locals and visitors. Then, at the end of the day, the sun sets over the sound, displaying vibrant hues of pink and orange for all to see. After the sun has set and the sky turns dark, the heavens put on a wonderful display of stars, meteor showers, and moonlight. You can have an entire day dedicated to the natural wonder of the sun, moon, and stars! Jeanette's Pier is a fantastic place for watching the sunrise or the night sky!
Laid-Back Vibes
If you have seen the Netflix show “Outer Banks,” then you are familiar with the laid-back vibes that are quintessential to our way of life. Time moves a little slower here, making it the perfect escape from busy day-to-day routines. We don’t get in a hurry. Even our accent has a slow Southern drawl. Life on the Outer Banks is about enjoying the present moment, cherishing what we have, and loving our community (and we invite visitors to join in)!
Outdoor Adventures
We go big when it comes to outdoor adventures and epic water activities. Surfing, kiteboarding, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, hang gliding, biking, and boating are just a few of the many adventures the OBX has to offer. There’s something for everyone who loves the water and the wind.
Family Traditions
From the early settlers of our barrier islands to the inhabitants through the mid-twentieth century, there was only a handful of families in the area. They were salt-of-the-earth people who made a living from the ocean. The OBX has undergone significant changes over the years, but its roots in family tradition remain unchanged. Today, we share our shores with visitors from near and far, many of whom return year after year and create OBX traditions of their own.
Sensational Seafood
Coastal North Carolina is famous for its wide variety of fresh, local seafood. From plump fried shrimp and salty oysters to delicious, blackened Mahi-Mahi, our restaurants serve mouthwatering dishes. Savor the flavor of the OBX and the bounty of the ocean when you visit!
Book Your OBX Vacation Rental and Fall in Love
It is easy to see why we love the Outer Banks, but you don’t have to take our word for it. You can discover your own reasons to cherish the OBX by booking an unforgettable getaway with Carolina Shores Vacation Rentals. We offer an incredible selection of hand-selected homes for our guests to choose from. Our rentals are dotted all along the coast, making it easy to find one that is ideal for your vacation needs. Whether you are looking for a home with a private pool or one that is pet-friendly, we have you covered.