Five things you must do in the Outer Banks

If you are looking for a quiet beach vacation where you can unwind with your feet in the sand and a good drink in your hand, then you should consider vacationing in the Outer Banks (OBX). The Outer Banks are barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina and are known for their quiet, uncrowded beaches.  We have been going there every year since 2008 and we absolutely love it!

Outfit details: Top (similar), (similar), Shorts, 19.99 (currently on sale for $9)

Ok, on to the FIVE things you MUST do when visiting the Outer Banks:

1. Visit Jockey Ridge State Park in Nags Head

Jockey Ridge State Park is home of the tallest sand dunes on the east coast. The top of the dunes provides stunning panoramic views, perfect for family photos. Parking and entrance to the park is free.  There is about 1½-mile long sand-covered hike to the dunes.  I would recommend going about 2 hours before sunset, that way the sand won’t be too hot and you’ll be able to enjoy your trek barefoot.

Outfit details: Romper, $46, Bag, $44.95, Sandals, $198

2. Reserve an Outer Banks Wild Horse tour or a Dolphin tour.

This was our favorite thing we did back in 2015. Going offroading in Corolla, driving along sand dunes and ocean to see wild horses was phenomenal.  Definitely an experience we will never forget.  We learned the history and ecology of the island and stopped for photo ops of the horses.

In 2019 we booked a dolphin tour.  The kids loved being on the boat and seeing so many dolphins swim by.  Highly recommend!

3. Visit the Waterfront Shops in Duck

This is such a cute “boardwalk” type area with lots of shops and a few restaurants.

Outfit details: Top, $40, Bag, $75

My sister and brother-in-law

4. Visit Bodie Island Lighthouse

This lighthouse stands 156ft tall and is located just south of Nags Head.  You can climb 214 steps to get to the top.  This lighthouse is one of only 12 remaining tall, brick tower lighthouses in the United States.

5. Visit Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is the tallest brick lighthouse in the United States and second tallest in the world.  It’s 210 ft tall and it has 268 steps.

I’m going to put together a list of best restaurants in the Outer Banks, so stay tuned….

Outfit details: Romper (similar), (similar), Hat, $32, Sandals, $268

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