The best way to spend spring break or summer vacation is with memorable Outer Banks family activities! There are so many ways to celebrate life’s milestones or just to have fun and relax during your stay on the OBX. From surfing on the beach to diving into the rich history of our Atlantic Coast destination, you’re sure to find the best family activities to suit your crew’s taste!
Before you visit the Outer Banks, make sure to check out our free Vacation Guide. We’ve created the ultimate tool to help you discover all the best restaurants, attractions, and outdoor activities during your vacation. Or, for more kid-friendly things to do, check out our blog post for more inspiration!
You Have to Try These Family Activities on the Outer Banks!
1. Score a Hole In One on an Outer Banks Golf Course
Corolla Adventure Golf is a fun way to compete over a friendly game of golf. This mini-golf course is on Ocean Trail in Corolla and is close to many of our rentals. It’s one of the best golf courses for kids, and they even offer bumper cars!
2. Build Sand Castles on the Beach
North Carolina is home to the most beautiful Outer Banks beaches. If you’re looking for a spot to build an extraordinary sandcastle or surf a gnarly (but kid-friendly) wave, you’re sure to find a gorgeous beach in Corolla, Nags Head, Duck, Kitty Hawk, Southern Shores, or Kill Devil Hills.
3. Learn How to Surf on the Outer Banks
Corolla Surf Shop offers Introductory Surf Lessons, where they focus on ocean safety, paddling, catching a wave, and how to jump up and onto your feet. The two-hour lesson includes all the equipment you need, and of course, a fun time!
4. Try a New Water Sport (Or All of Them!)
There are so many fun outdoor activities to do on the Outer Banks. After you’ve mastered a surf lesson on the Outer Banks, try some of the other popular water sports like stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), kayaking, or fishing!
5. Learn Something New on the Outer Banks
You’ll be in awe when you discover the towering granite monument honoring pioneers of aviation at the Wright Brothers National Memorial. Did you know Orville and Wilbur Wright piloted the first powered airplanes over the sandy dunes right here in Kill Devil Hills on the Outer Banks?
See the historic site, and explore the Wright Brothers National Park visitor centers, Centennial of Flight Museum, and Wright Brothers Memorial Park. It’s a fascinating attraction for the history buff in your family!
6. Scope Out an Iconic Outer Banks Lighthouse
Get a mix of history and coastal charm when you go lighthouse hopping to the iconic structures that tower over and light up our waterways. Climb flights of stairs for a bird’s-eye view of the OBX shores while taking your mind on a trip through OBX history with in-depth guided tours!
Some of the Outer Banks lighthouses that your family should check out include Currituck Beach Lighthouse in historic Corolla Village, Bodie Island Lighthouse, Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse, and Ocracoke Lighthouse!
7. Soar Through the Sky at Jockey’s Ridge
For an extraordinary OBX experience, you have to check out Jockey’s Ridge State Park. It’s home to the largest living sand dune on the East Coast! Make your way to the top of the sand dune for spectacular views spanning from the ocean to Roanoke Sound!
This popular attraction is known for its exciting hang-gliding experiences. You can take a lesson with Kitty Hawk Kites, located in the park. Then, scope out the visitor center, museum, as well as a 360-foot boardwalk with fascinating information the whole way!
8. Treat Yourself to Something Sweet
This Outer Banks family activity might seem like it’s an activity to make the kids happy, but the grown-ups will love it just as much! There are tons of great places to eat on the Outer Banks. The ultimate cherry on top of each day of your vacation should include something sweet!
Did you know the national chain, Duck Donuts, started right here on the Outer Banks? Visit the iconic spot where it all started in Duck, NC!
Don’t know what you’re craving? Get the best of both sweet and savory worlds with a trip to Kill Devils Frozen Custard & Beach Fries. This retro window is right near the beach and Wright Brothers Memorial, north of Nags Head.
9. Make Memories in one of the Best Outer Banks Vacation Rentals
Memorable family vacation memories start from the comfort of the best Outer Banks vacation rentals. Book a stay in a Paramount Destinations family-sized vacation home, and you’ll enjoy fabulous amenities, including private pools, hot tubs, game rooms, gourmet kitchens, and convenient locations. All our OBX vacation homes are near the best attractions, like the beach, restaurants, and great entertainment options.
So, what are you waiting for? Check our availability and book your family vacation today!
