A chain of barrier islands stretching over 100 miles, the Outer Banks of North Carolina is a place where travelers looking for windswept beaches, iconic lighthouses, and views of wild horses can enjoy the area’s history, scenic views, and slower pace. Once a group of fishing villages with shores notorious for shipwrecks, the Outer Banks—or the OBX—started to gain popularity as a beloved seaside travel destination in the mid-20th century. Besides the growing desire for a coastal getaway, tourists wanted to see first-hand where the stories of Roanoke’s Lost Colony, Blackbeard’s final stand, and the Wright brothers’ first flight all began.
The Outer Banks is a great destination for so many types of travelers, making it one of the East Coast’s favorite beachfront vacation destinations. Families visit for the classic beach vacation—flying kites over the dunes and building sandcastles by day, and stargazing by night. Couples seek out the pure relaxation of quiet walks along the shoreline and strolls through the charming coastal towns. And while the OBX is as charming and relaxing as everyone says it is, there are plenty of activities that’ll keep the more adventurous travelers busy.
History buffs have no shortage of destinations to explore—but few places captivate all types of travelers like the Outer Banks. Here, a mysterious disappearance of an entire colony, the final battle of an infamous pirate captain, and the utter marvel of achieving flight all capture the imagination of visitors who’d normally prefer soaking up the sun than stepping into a museum.
One of the most popular attractions is The Lost Colony, a theater production depicting the epic tale and true story of the English’s first attempt at colonization in America, their encounters with the Algonquin Native Americans already settled there, and the colony’s mysterious disappearance that leaves historians baffled to this day. This massive production is fun for the whole family and is set on the outdoor stage of the Waterside Theatre.
Your group will also enjoy the Roanoke Island Festival Park, a 27-acre site depicting life as it was for the English settlers in 1585. From the Settlement Site and the sailing ship, Elizabeth II, to more interactive exhibits in the American Indian Town and Adventure Museum, your whole family will love this trip back in time.
Head to the Wright Brothers’ National Memorial to visit the visitor center and museum. Here, you’ll see the place where the brothers successfully flew, the monument that commemorates their world-changing achievement, and the replica 1903 Wright Flyer inside the Flight Room, along with other interactive exhibits you won’t want to miss.
Additional historic sites and museums we’d recommend are the Elizabethan Gardens, Frisco Native American Museum and Natural History Center, and the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum.
Another common pastime for visitors to the Outer Banks is visiting the lighthouses in the area. Because of the nature of the perilous coastline, these lighthouses were of the utmost necessity. Today, the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is arguably the most well-known and therefore the most visited lighthouse on OBX by tourists. The tallest lighthouse in the United States, visitors will most likely have to wait until the summer of 2026 to begin climbing again due to the lighthouse’s current restoration efforts.
Other climbable lighthouses include the Currituck Beach Lighthouse in Corolla, as well as the Bodie Island Lighthouse in Nags Head. Both have what’s considered a “climbing season,” or seasonal operational hours that generally span from spring to late fall. To see the oldest continuously operating lighthouse in the state, head to the Ocracoke Lighthouse. Significantly shorter than the Bodie or Cape Hatteras Lighthouses, the Ocracoke Lighthouse grounds are open to visitors.
If your group is itching to go out and explore the beautiful waterways surrounding the OBX, you’ll have many opportunities to do so. As you’d expect from many coastal towns, scenic boat tours, dolphin tours, and even fishing charters are all offered out of the Outer Banks. Interested in sailing, or have you been wanting to learn? You’ll have options to rent your own sailboat or have the opportunity to learn how to sail yourself! Regardless, the chances that you’ll find yourself on a ferry are very good, so you’ll get your chance to get on the water that way at the very least!
While the Outer Banks is famous for its beaches, there’s just as much to discover inland—especially for travelers who love wide-open spaces, unique wildlife, and unforgettable landscapes.
Start with one of the most iconic experiences: a wild horse tour in Corolla. These off-road excursions take you through the northern beaches, where descendants of Spanish mustangs have roamed freely for centuries. Watching these majestic animals against the backdrop of dunes and surf is a moment you won’t forget.
For nature lovers, the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge offers a peaceful escape filled with walking trails, observation decks, and world-class birdwatching. Over 300 species of birds have been spotted here, especially during the spring and fall migrations. Further south, Jockey’s Ridge State Park—home to the tallest living sand dunes on the East Coast—is a must-visit for hiking, kite flying, or simply watching the sunset from the top of a dune.
If you’re in the mood for a scenic drive, the Outer Banks Scenic Byway stretches over 130 miles, connecting small towns, marshes, and maritime forests. Along the way, stop at historic villages like Manteo or check out nature preserves.
The Outer Banks is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit simply depends on what kind of experiences you’re after. Summer is considered the peak season, and from June to August, warmer ocean temperatures and a full calendar of outdoor activities beckon beachgoers from near and far. You’ll never see the OBX as bustling with activity, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t join in on the fun! If planning on a summer trip, just ensure you’ve booked your accommodations well in advance.
The spring and fall “shoulder seasons” offer beautiful, mild weather, fewer crowds on the beaches and roadways, and still plenty of chances to enjoy the tours and attractions common during a summertime stay. If you’re wanting a quieter stay with lower room rates, plan on booking your OBX vacay in April, May, September, or October.
Outer Banks in winter has its own kind of appeal. The same charming towns and pristine beaches are incredibly peaceful, and while you might find that some things are running at reduced hours or are even closed for the season, revel in the fact that you’ll still be able to experience major attractions, some restaurants and shopping, and will probably have the whole beach to yourself for fishing, birdwatching, and beachcombing. Find off-season deals between November and March.
Through your Palmera Vacation Club membership, you have access to a variety of lodging options across the OBX via RCI Exchange and Quest Travel Club. Whether you want to stay in Duck, with its walkable village feel and boutique shops, or in Nags Head, known for its central location and beach access, there’s a stay to match your travel style.
Looking for flexibility? Quest Travel Club offers great hotel rates on short stays, last-minute getaways, or weekend escapes—perfect if you’re planning a spontaneous beach break. For longer vacations, RCI Exchange lets you book weeklong stays using your points, with options ranging from oceanfront resorts to secluded hideaways.
Take a look at some of the options listed on the RCI Exchange:
**Prices and availability subject to change.
