Top Things to Do in the OBX (Outer Banks, NC)

Popular Spots Include:

• Nags Head: Perfect for families and surfers alike. For easy access to the ocean, check out our vacation rentals in Nags Head.
• Coquina Beach: Located near Cape Hatteras, this undeveloped spot is ideal for nature lovers. If you're staying nearby, browse our Cape Hatteras rentals.
• Kill Devil Hills: A classic OBX beach with plenty of space and energy. Explore Kill Devil Hills vacation homes for nearby stays.

Tip: Many public beaches in OBX offer free parking, restrooms, and seasonal lifeguards—making them perfect for a full day of coastal fun. Want to stay close to the shoreline? Check out our Oceanfront OBX Rentals.
For a full list of beach access points, features, and amenities, visit our Public Beaches page.

Top-rated attractions:

• Wright Brothers National Memorial: Dive into aviation history in Kill Devil Hills.
• Jockey's Ridge State Park: Try sandboarding or watch a dramatic sunset over the dunes. A stay in Nags Head rentals puts you close to the action.
• Roanoke Island Festival Park: Explore early colonial life with hands-on exhibits. Stay close in a Manteo Rental.
• Cape Hatteras Lighthouse: Climb to the top for panoramic views. Book a stay at our Cape Hatteras vacation homes for a convenient base.

Wild horse tours in Corolla, kayaking in the sound, and dolphin cruises are also unforgettable things to do in the OBX. Don't miss the chance to stay in one of our Corolla beach rentals for these rare experiences.

Must-do experiences include:

• Visit all 5 OBX lighthouses
• See a Lost Colony performance
• Watch the sunset at Jockey's Ridge

Check out the full Outer Banks Bucket List for more unforgettable adventures.

Local favorites:

• Blue Moon Beach Grill (Nags Head): Southern coastal fare with local ingredients.
• The Kill Devil Grill: Known for retro vibes and creative seafood dishes.
• Basnight's Lone Cedar Café: A must for sunset dinners with a view.

Staying near the water? Browse our soundfront rentals for easy access to some of the area's best dining spots.

Whether you're craving a crab cake sandwich, a scoop of homemade ice cream, or a craft beer brewed right in OBX, the Outer Banks restaurant scene will not disappoint. For more dining options, visit our Outer Banks Dining page.

Popular outdoor bars include Avalon Pier, Fish Heads Bar & Grill, Mimi's Tiki Hut, and more. Read the full list here.

Convenient services include:

• Beach gear delivery: Enjoy chairs, umbrellas, and paddleboards brought right to your door. Available with select KEES FlexStay™ rentals.
• In-home spa treatments and yoga: Unwind without leaving your rental.
• Fishing charters: Cast a line from a boat—or your backyard.
• Grocery delivery: Stock your fridge before you arrive or schedule items during your stay for ultimate convenience.

These tailored services help make your OBX visit seamless, relaxing, and filled with unforgettable memories. Learn more about local OBX services and rentals available during your stay in our Outer Banks Services section.

Tip: To ensure availability, especially during peak seasons, it's advisable to place your grocery delivery orders as early as possible.

• Instacart: Partners with Publix, Food Lion, Harris Teeter, and The Fresh Market to deliver groceries directly to your door. Available from Corolla to Avon.
• Delivery Genie: Locally operated service offering grocery, takeout, and prescription deliveries. Serves Corolla to South Nags Head and parts of Hatteras Island.
• We Feed the OBX: Vacation-friendly service that delivers groceries before arrival. Offers both packages and custom orders. Serves Corolla through Nags Head.
• Publix: Delivery available through their website (powered by Instacart). Located at 4915 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head.
• The Fresh Market: High-end grocery store offering delivery via Instacart. Located at 5000 N Croatan Hwy, Southern Shores.
• Food Lion: Offers delivery through their app and Instacart. Locations in Corolla, Southern Shores, Kill Devil Hills, Nags Head, and Avon.
• Harris Teeter: Grocery delivery through their website or Instacart. Locations in Corolla, Kitty Hawk, and Kill Devil Hills.

Tip: Place your order early to secure a preferred pickup time and enjoy a smooth start to your OBX vacation.

• Walmart: Order online and schedule a pickup. Staff will load groceries into your car. Location: 5400 N Croatan Hwy, Kitty Hawk.
• Harris Teeter ExpressLane: Shop online and pick up curbside. Locations in Corolla, Kitty Hawk, and Kill Devil Hills.
• Food Lion: Some locations offer curbside pickup. Locations include Corolla, Southern Shores, Kill Devil Hills, Nags Head, and Avon.
• Publix Curbside: Convenient pickup powered by Instacart. Location: 4915 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head.
• Target: Offers Drive Up and Order Pickup via the Target app. Location: 1901 N Croatan Hwy, Kill Devil Hills.