Discover the Outer Banks Blog

Explore the Outer Banks Of NC through helpful stories covering family-friendly activities, outdoor adventures, local dining and more.

National Park Week on the Outer Banks: Historic Places, Natural Spaces and Stories to Discover

By Outer Banks Visitors Bureau on
Aug. 25, 2026

The Outer Banks is known for expansive beaches, shifting dunes and adventures filled with salty air. Away from the coast, visitors can uncover another dimension of the OBX, including the location of the Wright brothers’ first flight, the enduring mystery of the Lost Colony and miles of natural and historic places to explore.

The Netflix Show “Outer Banks” Compared with the Real OBX

By Outer Banks Visitors Bureau on
Aug. 21, 2026

Updated August 21, 2026

Netflix's show Outer Banks launched its 5th and final season on August 20, 2026. The “Outer Banks ” Netflix show takes its name from actual east coast barrier islands and has attracted an international audience. Although the series was not filmed on the OBX, its setting is inspired by the real region and its stories.

September Activities and Adventures on the Outer Banks

By Outer Banks Visitors Bureau on
Aug. 11, 2026

September on the Outer Banks brings a mix of lingering summer weather, early signs of fall and plenty to enjoy. People familiar with the area often call this period "local’s summer" or “second summer,” making it the OBX's worst-kept secret. Warm ocean water, quieter beaches and a full calendar make the month especially appealing.

A Three-Day Food Lover’s Guide to Eating on the Outer Banks

By Honest Cooking on
Jul. 21, 2026

For decades, the Outer Banks of North Carolina, also known as OBX, have been associated with seafood. The location explains much of that tradition: the islands sit at the far edge of the Atlantic, between the ocean and mainland USA. Yellowfin tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi, rockfish and flounder are among the seafood found in the area.

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Restoration: Information for Visitors

By Outer Banks Visitors Bureau on
Jul. 15, 2026

Updated July 2026

Visitors may be curious about why America’s tallest lighthouse remains surrounded by scaffolding. Restoration work can expose surprises beneath the surface, and stripping paint layers while inspecting the historic structure of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse has uncovered additional details about its condition.

Exploring the Outer Banks on a Budget

By Outer Banks Visitors Bureau on
Jun. 24, 2026

A beach vacation does not have to break the bank. The Outer Banks offers ways to enjoy an engaging and memorable trip while spending less, from affordable activities to budget-friendly places to eat. Many inexpensive things to do on the Outer Banks can help travelers stretch their dollar.

Park Rangers Take Visitors Skyward at Wright Brothers National Memorial

By Vanessa Infanzon on
Dec. 19, 2025

Our 8-year-old son, Sean, became fascinated by brothers Orville and Wilbur Wright, inspiring my husband and me to arrange our first family visit to the Outer Banks. We planned to include the beaches, Jockey's Ridge and other Outer Banks attractions, along with the Wright Brothers National Memorial.

Planning a Successful Outer Banks Home Rental for Your Family

By Michael Law on
Dec. 17, 2025

You have located an ideal house on the Outer Banks of North Carolina for your family: a beautiful 10-bedroom home with a week of sun, sand, surf and shared time ahead. That is a memorable experience to look forward to, but having a solid plan in place is important before the trip begins.

A Guide to Building a Beach Fire

By Outer Banks Visitors Bureau on
Dec. 17, 2025

This guide explains how to build a beach fire along the shoreline of Cape Hatteras National Seashore or Nags Head beach. It covers the logistics of creating an error-free and unforgettable experience, including when and where beach fires are allowed and how to carry out the perfect Outer Banks beach fire.

Spending One Day in Nags Head

By Outer Banks Visitors Bureau on
Dec. 09, 2025

Nags Head brings together many of the experiences associated with the Outer Banks, including sand dunes, dolphin tours and restaurants serving fresh-caught seafood. Whether you visit for one day or stay for a week, Nags Head offers plenty to fill your time.