5 Must-Try OBX Excursions for Nature Lovers and Adventure Seekers

Overview of OBX Excursions

OBX excursions give you the opportunity to enjoy a curated experience on the water while taking in all the beauty and excitement that these islands have been offering visitors since its founding hundreds of years ago. There are plenty of ways to enjoy the Outer Banks with OBX excursions and tours tailored to families and groups, as well as solo adventures that give you the opportunity to explore the Outer Banks' rich natural landscapes, diverse wildlife, and vibrant local culture.

The Importance of Connecting with Nature on the OBX

Spending time outdoors in OBX isn’t just relaxing. It's rejuvenating, invigorating, and the perfect way to reconnect with the earth in a way that we often don't get to do while we're spending our days in offices and cities away from the water. Whether paddling through calm waters, spotting wild horses, or watching the sun set over the sound, connecting with nature in this coastal haven fosters mindfulness, appreciation for local ecosystems, and a sense of adventure. By investing time in nature, you'll come back with a renewed sense of self and space in a way that will allow you to face the world with confidence and peace as you carry the memories of your time by the ocean.

Excursion Categories

There is no shortage of fun excursions for the whole family to enjoy on the Outer Banks. Whether you're looking for something exciting that's going to get your adrenaline going, something on the water that will truly let you embrace the unique geography of these barrier islands, or an OBX wildlife tour that speaks to the many different species that call the Outer Banks home, there's a little bit of something for everyone.

Adventure Tours in the Outer Banks

For those craving excitement, Outer Banks adventure tours combine natural beauty with heart-pumping fun. From off-road OBX excursions through the sand dunes of Corolla to eco-adventure treks horseback riding on Hatteras Beach, these tours showcase the wilder side of OBX. Explore hidden maritime forests, discover remote beaches, and experience the thrill of exploring one of North Carolina’s most dynamic coastal landscapes. Spend your days hang gliding high above the dunes, taking an OBX ATV tour in the 4x4 area of Corolla, or a walking ghost tour in downtown Manteo. Whatever thrills you enjoy, you'll be sure to find them here on the Outer Banks.

Water-Based Activities in OBX

With miles of coastline and calm sound waters, the Outer Banks is a dream destination for water adventures. Try kayaking through the salt marshes of Kitty Hawk, paddleboarding at sunset in Duck, or sailing across Roanoke Sound. Water-based OBX excursions offer the perfect mix of relaxation and exploration, giving visitors a true sense of the islands’ coastal charm. You won't want to miss out on OBX charter fishing, inshore fishing excursions, jet ski rentals, parasailing, and more! Combine that thrill of adventure with a kiteboarding lesson or a surf lesson that you'll be talking about for ages! And if you're looking for something a little more relaxing, book a sailing cruise or a vineyard voyage sunset cruise across the sound.

Wildlife Experiences in the Outer Banks

Wildlife lovers will find the Outer Banks teeming with natural wonders. Take a guided tour to see the famous Corolla wild horses, spot dolphins along the coast of Hatteras Island, or birdwatch at Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge or the Alligator River Refuge. Climb aboard the Magic Bus and enjoy a wildlife tour spotting black bears, alligators, and more or take the family on a boating adventure to find shells, crabs, and more with Family Water Adventures. These OBX wildlife excursions offer incredible opportunities to connect with local ecosystems while supporting sustainable tourism practices that help protect them.

Top 5 Recommended Outer Banks Excursions

1. Corolla Wild Horse Tours

One of the most iconic Outer Banks experiences, Corolla Wild Horse Tours takes you off the beaten path—literally. Ride across the northern beaches in an open-air 4x4 to see the legendary wild Colonial Spanish Mustangs that have roamed this stretch of sand for centuries. Local guides share fascinating stories and history while helping you safely view these magnificent animals in their natural habitat. A must-do for nature lovers visiting Corolla or Duck. With Kitty Hawk Kites, enjoy a 2-hour, 20-mile round-trip adventure in Carova, where you'll venture out on their custom 12-passenger 4x4 vehicle that is designed to help you get closer to nature without sacrificing comfort! With expert guides, you're 

2. Kayaking on the Outer Banks

From the calm waters of the Currituck Sound to the scenic marshes of Kitty Hawk and Nags Head, kayaking on the OBX is the perfect mix of peaceful and adventurous. Paddle through lush salt marshes, spot herons and egrets, and explore hidden inlets accessible only by water. Many local outfitters offer guided eco-tours ideal for families, couples, or solo adventurers wanting to see the Outer Banks from a new perspective. Kitty Hawk Kites offers Club Seaside discounts for guests staying with us - so you can explore the Outer Banks in style with guides who boast over 40 years of experience without breaking the bank! Have an adventure and make memories that everyone in your party will love. Kids will love the novelty, adults will love the peace and calm of the water, and everyone will be ready to head back out on the water again before you know it.

3. Paddleboarding on the OBX

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is one of the most popular ways to enjoy the water in the Outer Banks. Whether you’re gliding through the glassy morning waters of Roanoke Sound or catching gentle waves near Kitty Hawk, paddleboarding lets you connect with nature while getting a great workout. Many OBX towns—from Duck to Hatteras—offer rentals and beginner lessons, making it easy for everyone to join the fun. You'll learn the anatomy of and terminology surrounding the SUP, discuss techniques and balance, and then practice popping up before heading out onto the water! Don't miss out on Kitty Hawk Kites' decades of skill and experience with watersports out on the sound.

4. Charter Fishing on the Outer Banks

Known as the “Billfish Capital of the World,” the Outer Banks offers some of the best saltwater fishing on the East Coast. Book a half-day or full-day charter out of Oregon Inlet, Hatteras, or Wanchese and experience the thrill of reeling in tuna, mahi, or red drum. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a first-time fisherman, OBX fishing charters are a quintessential way to spend a day on the water. Check out Wanchese Marine Dolphin Tours & Fishing Charters, Fishin' Fannatic Charters, or Instigator Fishing Charters for some Club Seaside discounts on your next fishing adventure. If you're looking for even more flexibility, Kitty Hawk Kites offers a wide variety of inshore and offshore fishing adventures that are sure to help the whole family enjoy some time out on the water.

5. Outer Banks Sunset Cruise

End your day with a breathtaking OBX sunset cruise. Departing from harbors in Manteo, Duck, and Kitty Hawk, these relaxing excursions offer stunning views of the sun sinking over the sound. Keep an eye out for dolphins playing in the wake as you sip a drink and take in the evening breeze. It’s the perfect way to unwind and capture the magic of the Outer Banks at golden hour. Check out OBX Tiki Time, Kitty Hawk Kites Sailing Cruises, or Corolla Water Sports Sunset Cruise for 2-3 sunset cruises that your entire family will enjoy. For the adults in your group, consider taking a Sanctuary Vineyard Voyage for the chance to enjoy a wine tasting at Sanctuary Vineyards or simply enjoy the tour with your whole family. Get ready to enjoy a sunset cruise with memories that will last a lifetime as you take in the beautiful colors of the sky as the sun sets down over the sound.

Planning Your OBX Excursion

Seasonal Considerations on the Outer Banks

Each season in the Outer Banks offers its own unique adventure. Spring is ideal for kayaking, birdwatching, and seeing local wildlife emerge, while summer brings warm waters and more tour availability, perfect for paddleboarding, surfing, and family-friendly beach tours. Fall offers cooler weather, fewer crowds, and spectacular fishing opportunities from Nags Head to Hatteras, while winter is perfect for quiet beaches, migrating waterfowl, and stunning sunsets that make for peaceful soundside excursions. Kayaking is fun year-round, no matter where you're staying on the beach.

No matter when you visit, always check local conditions and tour availability, as weather, tides, and staffing availability can affect excursion times.

What to Bring for Your Outer Banks Adventure

To make the most of your OBX excursions, pack light but smart. Essentials include:

• Sun protection: sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.

• Footwear: water shoes, tennis shoes, or sandals that can get wet. Some activities may require close-toed shoes, so be sure to check beforehand.

• Hydration: bring plenty of water, especially for summer tours.

• Electronics protection: waterproof phone cases or dry bags for kayaking and paddleboarding.

• Extras: a lightweight rain jacket, bug spray, and binoculars for wildlife viewing.

Many local outfitters—from Corolla to Hatteras—also provide gear rentals and safety equipment, so you can travel light and still be prepared.

Safety Tips for OBX Excursions

Safety always comes first when exploring the Outer Banks outdoors. Here are a few important tips:

• Always follow your guide’s instructions on tours and charters.

• Wear a life jacket during all water-based excursions.

• Stay weather-aware: coastal storms can develop quickly.

• Use eco-friendly sunscreen to protect OBX marine life.

• Keep a respectful distance from wildlife, especially wild horses and nesting birds.

By staying mindful of safety and conservation, you’ll help preserve the beauty that makes the Outer Banks so special.

Local Guides and Tour Operators

The Outer Banks is home to an incredible community of experienced, knowledgeable tour operators who make every adventure memorable. Whether you’re booking a wild horse tour in Corolla, a kayaking trip in Kitty Hawk, a dolphin cruise in Wanchese, or a fishing charter out of Hatteras, going with a local guide ensures a richer and safer experience.
Look for eco-certified or family-owned companies that specialize in small-group tours—these guides know the hidden gems and help you see the Outer Banks like a local.

Embrace the Adventure!

From wild horses in Corolla to sunset sails in Manteo, every corner of the Outer Banks offers a new way to connect with nature and uncover the beauty of coastal Carolina. Whether you’re paddling calm sound waters, reeling in the catch of the day, or simply soaking in a breathtaking OBX sunset, these excursions remind us why the Outer Banks is such a special place to explore.

So pack your sense of adventure, bring your curiosity, and get ready to make memories that will stay long after the sand is gone from your shoes. The Outer Banks is calling—embrace the adventure and experience the OBX like never before.

Book your stay today in one of our cozy vacation rentals and explore all the best and brightest that the Outer Banks has to offer. Give our wonderful Guest Services Team a call today at (866) 884-0267 or take a look at our available rentals to get started planning your next historic adventure to the Outer Banks.

And don't forget about our layaway plan, which makes booking your dream vacation easier than ever. So don't wait. We're booking Outer Banks vacation rentals year round and we're excited to help you create memories to last a lifetime. We're here to help make your OBX vacation fun, exciting, and hassle-free. 

Give us a call today! Be sure to provide accurate information and make any necessary payments. 

About the Author: Lauren is an Outer Banks local, a mom, a history professor, and a travel enthusiast. When she isn’t writing for the Seaside Vacations Travel Blog, Lauren can usually be found with her nose in a book or cuddling with her cats.