Located on the eastern coast of North Carolina, the Outer Banks is one of the most visited beach destinations in the country. From days spent on the shore to exploring the vibrant communities that wind from Corolla to Hatteras, families love the unspoiled nature and tight knit feeling of the region.
As you plan your upcoming vacation, making sure you know what to expect when you arrive is important! In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Outer Banks weather and answer some frequently asked questions that will have you ready to put in that PTO request and book your stay in no time!
Outer Banks Weather by Season
The weather can certainly change on a dime, so while this blog provides seasonal averages, remember to check local sources before you visit for the most up-to-date information.
Spring (March, April, May)
In spring, the weather in the Outer Banks is gorgeous, with lots of sun and mild temperatures. Visitors this time of year can look forward to pleasant days spent riding bikes, fishing from the shore or piers, kayaking in the calm waters of the sound, playing rounds of golf, or checking out the Elizabethan Gardens.
- Average High: 75°F
- Average Low: 65°F
- Favorite Spring OBX Event: The Lost Colony Wine and Culinary Festival
Summer (June – August)
Summer is definitely the most popular time to visit the OBX. The warm, humid days are perfect for splashing in the ocean, learning to surf, building sandcastles, or hunting for shells. Beyond the beach, all the local restaurants are open, and there’s always something going on. We recommend visiting Roanoke Island Festival Park, where you can board the Elizabeth II, learn about the first settlers of the area, and even see a Native American village.
- Average High: 85°F
- Average Low: 75°F
- Favorite Summer OBX Event: Seeing The Lost Colony performance at the Waterside Theater. This special show only runs in the summer, so be sure to check it out!
Fall (September, October, November)
As the crowds clear out, fall offers some of the best Outer Banks weather (and rates on vacation rentals)! While some seasonal places will have closed until spring, there are still plenty of places to check out. You can spend your days on fishing excursions out in the Gulf Stream or at local museums like the Graveyard of the Atlantic. Visiting places like Jockey’s Ridge State Park or the Wright Brothers Memorial are also popular pastimes. From nature preserves to walking trails, fall offers visitors a chance to embrace all the outdoor activities without the oppressive heat of summer.
- Average High: 75°F
- Average Low: 65°F
- Favorite Fall OBX Event: Annual Outer Banks Seafood Festival
Winter (December – February)
While we occasionally get a crazy winter snowstorm (we’re looking at you January of 2025), the weather this time of year is typically mild. Beach bonfires are a popular to-do, as well as stargazing along the Cape Hatteras National Seashore or at Coquina Beach. If you bring a wetsuit, you can even enjoy some winter surfing!
- Average High: 60°F
- Average Low: 50°F
- Favorite Winter OBX Event: Seeing Christmas lights, markets, and parades throughout the OBX towns.
Frequently Asked Questions: Outer Banks Weather
When is the best month to visit the Outer Banks?
The fall months are typically the best. Not only will you find lower rates on vacation rentals, but the weather is still warm enough to do all the water activities, and cool enough to not sweat all day. That said, things do start to close down in the fall, so if you want to experience the OBX in full force, summer is your best option.
What is the rainiest month in the Outer Banks?
While any beach town is likely to experience the random afternoon rain shower, July receives over seven inches of rain on average, making it the rainiest month in the Outer Banks.
What months can you swim in the Outer Banks?
You can swim in the Outer Banks from June until October! The summer heat warms up the ocean and keeps water temperatures around 70-80°F for the summer and mid-60s-70°F until early October. After that, enter at your own risk and always wear a wetsuit for protection. The water temps can get down to the low 40s°F from January to March!
Book Your Outer Banks Vacation Today!
With this guide to Outer Banks weather, we hope you’ve narrowed down your visitation window and are ready to book your stay! However, if you’re still researching your trip, be sure to visit our blog for excellent tips on things to do or download our free area guide.
When you are ready to reserve your stay, remember to book directly with Paramount Destinations. With tons of properties along the Outer Banks, we have something that’s sure to be perfect for your family or group. Plus, booking direct gives you the best rate on your stay, bypassing additional fees charged by places like Airbnb or Vrbo.
Take a look at our full inventory of Outer Banks vacation rentals and discover the difference a local team can make on your next vacation.
