Have you heard of the OBX secret season? When the kids go back to school, crowds disperse, and the temperatures cool down, the fall months draw visitors to our beautiful barrier islands. Discover all the best things to do in October on the Outer Banks this year! In addition to beautiful weather and lower rates, travelers can also take advantage of excellent fishing opportunities. Read on to learn more about why you should visit in October. Then, get your free copy of our Vacation Guide for more local insight on the region’s best.
7 Reasons You Should Spend October on the Outer Banks
Discover for yourself why locals say this is their favorite time of year on the barrier islands.
1. Fewer Crowds
The kids are going back to school, which means that many families have packed up and gone home. Compared to the summer months, crowds disappear in the fall. This means no lines at the popular attractions, lots of open space on the beaches, and less waiting at restaurants.
2. Beautiful Weather
With highs in the mid to upper 70s and lows in the upper 50s, October weather on the Outer Banks is absolutely gorgeous. It’s even warm enough on some days to go swimming! The temperatures are ideal for outdoor adventures such as hiking, biking, and kayaking.
3. Lower Rates
Lodging prices tend to drop considerably once summer comes to an end. It’s a great time to browse our vacation rentals and see what kind of deal you can find! The more money that you save on booking a vacation home, the more money you’ll have to spend on dining out, exploring, activities, and shopping for souvenirs.
4. Great Fishing Opportunities
Fishing on the Outer Banks is a major draw year-round! But during October, thanks to fish feeding patterns and fewer crowds, it’s an amazing time for anglers. This is the perfect time to go surf fishing, pier fishing, or head out on a boat! For those interested in charter fishing or deep-sea fishing, you’re in for a good time because in the fall you can expect to catch a wide variety of species such as:
- Mahi
- Bigeye Tuna
- King Mackerel
- False Albacore
- Striped Bass (Rockfish)
- Speckled Trout
5. Oyster Season
October is the beginning of oyster season; it is when oysters have matured and are ready for harvest! Their flavors are at their freshest and briniest, and ready for you to enjoy on the half shell, broiled, baked, or included in a soup or stew. Oyster lovers, book your trip to the Outer Banks and enjoy the bounty that the sea has to offer this time of year.
6. Surfing
If you’re a surfer, then visiting the Outer Banks during October is a must. The water is still warm and thanks to the weather systems in the Atlantic, there are great swells awaiting you. So, if you’re ready to catch some quality waves, make the trip to the OBX!
7. Birdwatching
October is a fantastic month for birdwatching in the Outer Banks! It’s the ideal time to catch sight of migratory birds as they make their way south. With the cooler weather and smaller crowds, exploring the wildlife refuges and beaches is an even more delightful experience.
Our Favorite Things to Do in October
If you’re planning a trip to the Outer Banks in the fall, you’re in for a treat! Here are some of our favorite things to do when October rolls around.
- Attend the annual Duck Jazz Festival
- Go on a ghost tour!
- Rock on at the Mustang Music Festival in Corolla
- Pick a pumpkin at the Island Farm Pumpkin Patch
- Feast on local seafood at the Outer Banks Seafood Festival
- Celebrate wildlife at the Wings Over Water Wildlife Festival
Find Your Home Away From Home on the Outer Banks
Now that you know all the best reasons to spend October on the Outer Banks, it’s time to decide where you’ll rest your head. Recharge after a long day by unwinding in a luxury beach home. Stay in our modern, coastal rentals for easy access to the beach and other local attractions. Our vacation rental homes are all conveniently located in Corolla, Currituck Club, Duck, and Southern Shores. Additionally, you can find homes with essential amenities ranging from private pools to pet-friendly accommodations. Which one is calling your name?
