Full of adventures, the Outer Banks is a narrow strip of barrier islands on the North Carolina Coast. Although there are so many things to do in the area, we’re here to help you narrow down your options into the perfect Outer Banks 5-Day Itinerary. You’ll get a dose of relaxation, beach time, history, wildlife, and iconic landmarks.
And, if you plan to add more activities to your itinerary, request access to our free OBX Vacation Guide. This local’s guide includes insight on all the top restaurants, outdoor recreation, shops, history museums, and other attractions to include on your next trip to the Outer Banks.
Here’s Your Outer Banks 5-Day Itinerary!
Day 1: A Relaxing Beach Day
If you took a long road trip or flight to the Outer Banks, chances are you’re probably tired. Relax the muscles and dig your toes into the sand on Corolla Beach.
If you stay in one of our Outer Banks vacation rentals on Corolla, you probably have beach access. But, in case you can’t wait any longer to get on the beach, skip stopping by the rental and drive right up onto the beach! On Corolla Beach, it’s legal to drive a four-wheel vehicle with a permit!
Day 2: See the Wild Horses of Carova
The right to drive on the beach isn’t the only unique trait Corolla Beach boasts. The shore is also home to a herd of majestic Spanish colonial mustangs. To increase your chances of seeing these wild beauties, we recommend going on an Outer Banks wild horse tour!
Here are some other places to check out in the area:
- Currituck National Wildlife Refuge
- Currituck Beach Lighthouse
- Currituck Club Golf Course
- The Best Corolla Restaurants
Day 3: Taking Flight in the Kill Devil Hills, Kitty Hawk, and Nags Head Area
Spend the day in Kill Devil Hills, NC, learning about the very first ever flight! When you visit the Wright Brothers Memorial, you’ll find out about how the flight took off on the sandy dunes of Kill Devil Hills.
Then, take off on the sand dunes yourself with a trip to Jockeys Ridge State Park. The park is home to the largest dune on the East Coast of the United States. And, you can get a birds’ eye view by taking a hang-gliding lesson over it with the help of Kitty Hawk Kites!
Here are some other things to check out in the area:
Day 4: Solve the Mystery Around the First English Settlement in the New World
On Day 4 in the Outer Banks, explore Roanoke Island and the history within it. The Lost Colony is an outdoor theatre attraction on the land that the English settlers claimed before disappearing!
Here are some other things to check out in the area:
- Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge
- The Elizabethan Gardens
- North Carolina Aquarium
- Roanoke Island Festival Park
- Island Farm Living History Site in Manteo
Day 5: Discover Shipwrecks and Seashells
For Day 5, outdoor lovers should make a visit to Cape Hatteras National Seashore for a great spot to fish, surf, or hike. This 70-mile national park stretches from Bodie Island to Ocracoke Island and features iconic and historic lighthouses like Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, Bodie Island Lighthouse, and Ocracoke Lighthouse.
Here are some other things to check out in the area:
- Outer Banks Diving, Shipwrecks, and the Graveyard of the Atlantic
- Secrets of Cape Hatteras on the Outer Banks
The Best Place to Rest After Your Daily Adventures
5 Days of adventures call for ample amounts of rest and relaxation. Stay in the best Outer Banks rentals when you book with Paramount Destinations. Check our availability to claim a small or large rental with ocean views, beach access, private pools, hot tubs, or pet-friendly accommodations! Check our availability and plan your 5-day vacay today!
