Located in the northern Outer Banks of North Carolina, the Donal C. O’Brien Sanctuary and Audubon Center at Pine Island exists as one of the last remaining pieces of unspoiled natural habitat in the state. Free from development, the sandy beaches and surrounding upland maritime forests create a lush ecosystem where birds and wildlife thrive.
If you’re looking to enjoy time away from the bustling beach crowds and connect with the landscape that makes the Outer Banks so special, our guide to one perfect day at the Pine Island Audubon Sanctuary is just the tool for you.
With 2,600 acres of marsh and a 60-acre educational campus full of thriving woods and dunes to explore, we know your family will love spending time here during your OBX getaway.
For more amazing things to do and how to make the most out of your OBX vacation, get our FREE Destination Guide.
Morning Nature Trail Hikes at the Pine Island Audubon Sanctuary
Far removed from human disturbance, the winding nature walk at the Pine Island Sanctuary offers the perfect chance to ground yourself for the day. As you wander the 2.5-mile trail through live oak and loblolly pine forests and past the Currituck Sound, keep your eyes peeled for Great Egrets, Osprey, and other waterfowl.
Afternoon Coastal Kayak Tours and Beach Fun
One of the best ways to experience the Pine Island Audubon Sanctuary is on the water, and what better way to do that than with scenic kayak tours through the marsh? Coastal Kayak offers tours from early spring, in April, to the end of summer in September.
On your tour, your guide will take you through the Currituck Sound and past several small islands where you can catch glimpses of local wildlife like foxes who burrow in the dunes or bald eagles flying overhead.
After you return from your 2.5-hour tour, head to the oceanside of the sanctuary where you’ll find sandy shores perfect for a picnic lunch. Spend the rest of the daylight hours splashing in the waves and seeing how many varieties of fish and marine life you can spot.
Evening Sunset Skies
With the daylight behind you, it’s time to put the cap on your perfect day at the Pine Island Audubon Sanctuary. You can stay on the beach or head back to the sound, just make sure you have a clear view of the sky.
As brilliant hues of reds, oranges, pinks, and yellows flood across the clouds, reflect on your day and enjoy the peace that comes from spending time in nature. When dusk falls, it’s time to head back to your Paramount Destinations vacation rental and settle in for another cozy night in the Outer Banks.
Book Your Paramount Destinations Getaway Today
Whether you’re spending your days at local nature preserves like the Pine Island Audubon Sanctuary or exploring the other wonders of the OBX, one thing is certain, finding the perfect vacation rental for your stay makes all the difference between a good trip and one you’ll remember forever.
At Paramount Destinations, you can choose from pet-friendly vacation rentals, homes with hot tubs, and oceanfront properties, or browse our entire inventory until you find your dream home away from home.
When you’ve made your choice, don’t forget the most important thing – book your rental directly with Paramount Destinations! When you go through us instead of a third-party travel agency like Airbnb or VRBO, you’re avoiding all those extra third-party fees, meaning more money stays in your pocket.
See the difference a local team can make when you book directly with us today!
