The Outer Banks is positioned on the coastal area of North Carolina, and it is without doubt one of the most stunning locations within the state. Many individuals assume the Outer Banks, a set of skinny barrier islands jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean, are an costly trip spot however in actuality there are a number of free issues to do within the Outer Banks.
On this information we’re sharing one of the best free issues to do within the Outer Banks, NC that will help you plan your subsequent go to to North Carolina’s high trip spot.
Finest time to go to the Outer Banks, NC

The very best time to go to Outer Banks is throughout the summer time months of June to August, though costs can be larger for lodging. Personally we predict that one of the best time to go to the Outer Banks is from March to Could and September to November, when lodging are cheaper and the seashores are much less crowded. In the summertime months humidity is excessive and common temperatures persistently hit the higher 80s.
What to pack for the Outer Banks
When packing for the Outer Banks you will need to embrace sunscreen, hats, fast dry towels, sandals, snacks, water and naturally seaside gadgets comparable to chairs and umbrella. Deliver a rain umbrella as nicely, as there might be rolling rain storms within the area for brief bursts of time.
Learn extra: Finest issues to do in Raleigh, NC
Finest 5 enjoyable and free issues to do within the Outer Banks:
1. Jockey’s Ridge State Park
Jockey’s Ridge State Park is the tallest dwelling sand dune on the East coast, reaching as much as 100′ toes tall. It’s positioned in Nags Head, throughout from the Kitty Hawk Kites flagship. A number of the actions you are able to do on the state park are flying kites, sightseeing, cling gliding, sand boarding, climbing, birdwatching, swimming, kiteboarding, kayaking, windsurfing, and watching one of the best sunsets within the Outer Banks.
The doorway to the park is free and the park is pet pleasant. Canines should be on a leash not than six toes always. Though pets are allowed within the park, we advocate avoiding taking them in the summertime as it’s tremendous scorching and the new sand can burn their paws. Relying on when on while you go, it is likely to be a good suggestion to place goggles to keep away from sand blowing of their eyes. Indisputably, Jockey’s Ridge is without doubt one of the greatest enjoyable and free issues to do within the Outer Banks along with your canine.
2. Bodie Island Lighthouse
Bodie Lighthouse is the preferred lighthouses within the Outer Banks. It’s positioned on the Cape Hatteras Nationwide Seashore and it was in-built 1872. Tickets to climb the lighthouse are $10 for adults and $5 for senior residents, however you’ll be able to take photographs of the Bodie Island Lighthouse from the grounds, which is free to enter and one of many high free issues to do within the Outer Banks.
The primary climb up the lighthouse begins at 9am and the ultimate climb is 5:30pm. To make it to the highest of the lighthouse you will need to climb 214 steps, so include correct footwear if you wish to head to the highest.
3. Spend the afternoon in Corolla
It’s essential to see the wild horses in Outer Banks. This wild horses are Colonial Spanish Mustangs which have been dwelling on the seashores of Corolla for round 500 years. In case you are in luck you’ll spot them and have the prospect to examine off some of the distinctive free issues to do within the Outer Banks. The very best locations to seek out the wild horses is on the Corolla seaside.
After trying to find wildlife in Corolla seaside, head over to Currituck Seashore Lighthouse. This lighthouse can also be free to go to however might want to pay a small payment to be able to climb it to the highest. The lighthouse has 220 steps.
4. Spend time on the seaside
All of the seashores within the Outer Banks are free to the general public and lots of of them are canine pleasant earlier than 9 a.m. and after 6 p.m throughout the summer time and at any time from October 1 by means of April 30. Canines should be on a leash and below the management of their proprietor or handler always. The very best seashores to go to within the Outer Banks are: Corolla Seashore, Kitty Hawk, and seashores round Bodie Lighthouse.
5. Spot a Bear on the Alligator River Nationwide Wildlife Refuge
The Alligator River Nationwide Wildlife Refuge is positioned alongside U.S. 64, the main freeway taken from the mainland to Cape Hatteras Nationwide Seashore and Cape Lookout Nationwide Seashore on the Outer Banks. It’s free to enter and you can see maps can be found on the kiosk at Creef Lower Wildlife Path and on the entrance to the Refuge Operations Facility on Milltail Street.
Alligator River Nationwide Wildlife Refuge has an unimaginable Wildlife Drive the place you’ll be able to spot black bear, wild turkeys, all types of birds of prey, waterfowl, and different wildlife. The Wildlife Refuge supply guided tram excursions weekly throughout the summer time and month-to-month all through the remainder of the yr, though you are able to do it by yourself.
It is not uncommon for guests to see dozens of bears on a one-hour drive by means of the refuge. The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service estimates practically 300 bears reside within the refuge with estimated densities of 1-2 bears per sq. mile!