Welcome to the Outer Banks! Whether this is your first trip here or you're a regular who's been coming here for years, we are so excited that you're going to be spending your vacation with us! Your vacation is about to begin and we want to help you make the most of your time before check-in, especially since our official check-in time doesn't begin until 5:00 p.m. But never fear! There are so many amazing things to do while you're waiting for your home to open up. So whether you're eager to explore the area, grab a bite to eat, stock up on essentials, or hit the beach early, here are some of our favorite things to do while waiting for check-in to ensure a smooth and enjoyable start to your stay!
Top Things to Do Before Check-In
Make the most of your time before check-in by exploring everything OBX has to offer. Whether you want to grab a bite to eat, visit a local landmark, or simply relax by the water, there’s plenty to do while you wait. Enjoy a meal at a local favorite, browse charming boutiques for souvenirs, or take a scenic drive along the coast. Families can let the kids burn off some energy at a nearby playground, while book lovers can sip coffee and find the perfect beach read. No matter your plans, your Outer Banks adventure starts the moment you arrive!
1. Explore the Currituck Mainland
Most people making their way to the Outer Banks head south down NC Hwy 158 (Caratoke Highway) before driving over the Wright Memorial Bridge into Dare County. While passing through this beautifully scenic farmland, there are actually plenty of fun things to do to pass the time before check-in! Stop by Grandy Greenhouse & Farm Market for fresh produce, fun gifts, and some delicious frozen yogurt that will have you coming back year after year. When you're finished there, get ready for a wine tour at Sanctuary Vineyards! And as an added bonus, let them know you're staying with Seaside Vacations, and you can receive a FREE Reserve Wine Tasting and a tour of the winery! And if you're looking for something a little more exciting, don't forget about H2OBX, the Outer Banks' premier water park! Stretch your legs at Sound Park in Harbinger and let the kids and pups run around a bit before getting back into traffic!
2. Grab a Bite to Eat
Once you're across the bridge, the time before check-in is actually perfect for sampling some of the delicious Outer Banks cuisine and grabbing a bite to eat as your body adjusts to living on island time! If you're starting to get peckish in Kitty Hawk, there are plenty of delicious options! Stop by Art's Place for a burger, or head to Sandtrap Tavern for some delicious beachy fare. And for something a little more laid back and simple, Spanky's is always a win! In Kill Devil Hills, stop by The Kill Devil Devil Grill, Outer Banks Brewing Station, or the classic Jolly Roger Restaurant. If your final destination is Nags Head, stop by Blue Moon Beach Grill, Grits Grill, or Mulligan's! Tortugas Lie is a local fave, and you can't miss Sam & Omie's! On Roanoke Island, Blue Water Grill & Raw Bar, Lost Colony Tavern, and Darrell's are incredible options for an unforgettable meal.
Heading north? Head to The Blue Point, Coastal Cravings, or The Village Table & Tavern in Duck! Once you make it to Corolla, you can't miss Mama Easley's, Lighthouse Bagels and Deli, or Uncle Ike's Sandbar & Grill.
Heading further south? Once you hit Hatteras Island, there are countless places to get some of the best local fare and seafood in the area! Buxton Munch Company is hands-down one of the best, while Watermen's Bar & Grill, Cafe Pamlico, and Hatteras Sol Waterside Grill are always serving up something delightful for you to enjoy!
3. Hit the Beach Early
Stuck in traffic? Got some time while you're waiting for your rental to be available? There's quite literally nothing stopping you from heading to the beach early! Don't wait for check-in to enjoy the surf, sand, and sun! Make your way to your closest beach access and get ready to start those vacation vibes grooving!
4. Go Shopping!
As you're driving down the highway, you're sure to see all the bright, colorful businesses decorating the Outer Banks roadside. So, why not hop out of your car and explore? There are plenty of awesome places to go shopping and find unique souvenirs, clothing, and more while you wait. If you're in Duck or Corolla, stop by The Waterfront Shops or The Scarborough Faire Shopping Village and meander through the welcoming shops, finding your new favorite shirt or picking up a new toy for the kids. Further south, the Outlets Nags Head promises hours of shopping fun while you look for unique gifts and souvenirs, a new outfit, and brand name shops like American Eagle Outfitters and Eddie Bauer!
5. Visit an OBX Landmark
Traveling along the highway, waiting for check-in time, is also the perfect chance to stop by and explore some of the Outer Banks' most famous landmarks! If you're looking to spend some time up north, head to the Currituck Beach Lighthouse in Corolla and spend some time walking around the grounds of the Whalehead Club. On the main drag, check out the Wright Brothers National Memorial, and spend as much time as you can at Jockey's Ridge State Park! Stop by Kitty Hawk Kites, grab a kite and snack, and get ready to make memories on the dunes! In Manteo, head to Roanoke Island Festival Park, while Hatteras Island is perfect for visiting the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse or throwing your pole in the surf at Cape Point! Either way, it's easy to make the most of your time at the beach when you have all the time in the world!
6. Spend Some Time at the Sound
We know that the highlight of the Outer Banks is often the ocean, but while you're here, you've got to spend some time at one of the surrounding sounds! Take a stroll along the Duck Boardwalk and enjoy the sights and sounds of the Currituck Sound with plenty of shops and delicious eateries. And while you're there, head to the park or wander through the acres of nature trails and forest - perfect for making memories while you wait for check-in! If you're at Jockey's Ridge State Park, take the time to watch a sunset over the Roanoke Sound or head down to Roanoke Island and enjoy a walk on the Manteo Waterfront as you peruse the shops and maybe even stop by the Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse.
7. Stock Up on Groceries
While you've got the extra time, it's almost always a good idea to go ahead and get stocked up on groceries for the week! Stretch those legs and start prepping. Especially if you're staying on the northern end of Corolla or heading down to Hatteras Island, it can be helpful to go ahead and get what you need from one of the chain grocery stores on the Outer Banks. You'll find several Food Lions, Harris Teeters, and a Publix as well as a Walmart in Kitty Hawk. Here's our list of Outer Banks Grocery Stores that will give you a little more information about the available chain stores as well as local markets and shops.
8. Take the Kids to the Park
The kids are definitely ready to get out of the car after your drive down, so why not head to one of the beautiful local parks or playgrounds? There are many different parks up and down the Outer Banks, ensuring that there's somewhere for the kids to play no matter where you're staying! Corolla has the Corolla Village park while Duck boasts the Duck Town Park & Boardwalk. In Kitty Hawk, you'll find several multi-use parks, with Sandy Run Park being a local favorite with plenty of space to run around and play. Kill Devil Hills has Aviation Park and Hayman Park, while Dowdy Park and Whalebone Park are perfect for letting the kids have fun on the playground while the grownups enjoy the paths and picnic areas. Check out our guide to Outer Banks Parks & Playgrounds for even more places to find check-in day family fun.
9. Relax with Coffee and a Book
Nothing beats starting your Outer Banks vacation with a fresh cup of coffee, a cool ocean breeze, and a book! Whether you're looking for something to bide your time, you want to relax and start your vacation slow and easy, or you're looking for an easy start to your first morning at the beach, you won't want to miss out on these amazing local gems. On the northern Outer Banks, head over to Island Bookstore or Duck's Cottage for your new favorite read, and be sure to stop by Treehouse Coffee for a drink or grab your latte at Duck's Cottage Coffee and Books while you shop! On the main part of the island, Front Porch Cafe is your go-to for coffee (with locations in Kill Devil Hills, Nags Head, and Manteo), while Island Bookstore in Kitty Hawk is a dream for finding your new coastal read! On Hatteras Island, check out Dancing Turtle Coffee Shop, Beads & Beans, or Beads & Grinds for your new favorite brew and Buxton Village Books for the newest item on your TBR! Then get settled in at the shop or head to the beach and get ready for a relaxing experience that will welcome you to the Outer Banks with open arms. Here are our guides to Outer Banks Bookstores and Outer Banks Coffee Shops for even more ideas, no matter where you want to spend your day!
10. Enjoy a Scenic Drive
Take a relaxing drive along NC-12 and make your way down to the Outer Banks Scenic Byway at Whalebone Junction in Nags Head and soak in the breathtaking coastal views. This historic route stretches through picturesque villages, wildlife refuges, and unspoiled beaches, offering the perfect introduction to the Outer Banks. Start your drive in the charming town of Duck, and drive through Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, and Nags Head before exploring the waterfront beauty of Manteo, or head south to witness the dramatic landscapes of Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge and the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. If you have time, take the ferry to Ocracoke Island for a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you’re snapping photos of the iconic lighthouses or just enjoying the ocean breeze, a scenic drive is a fantastic way to kick off your Outer Banks adventure. If you're stuck in traffic or looking to spend some time exploring the beach before check-in, a drive is the perfect thing to do.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What time can I check in?
Check-in starts at 5:00 p.m. on your date of arrival.
We will notify you if your home is ready before 5:00 p.m. We make our best effort to see that your home is ready by 5:00 p.m. However, there are some situations where additional cleaning and maintenance is required and homes may not be ready until after 5:00 p.m. When necessary, we reserve the right to extend check-ins to allow extra time for cleaning or maintenance. Tenants may not go to the property (including driveways and outside showers) prior to check-in, as this will delay the cleaning and maintenance process.
Can I check in early?
For an additional $125 fee (plus tax), guests may check-in at 2:00 p.m. as homes become available. This fee applies whether or not you arrive prior to regular check-in time. Early check-in is subject to availability and only available for homes with up to five (5) bedrooms. Contact a Vacation Specialist at 866.884.0267 to request an early check-in.
Where do I check in?
Most of our rentals offer keyless entry, meaning you can head straight to your vacation home at 5:00pm!
If you are staying in non-keyless entry home, you will check in at our Kitty Hawk office: 3620 N. Croatan Hwy., Kitty Hawk, NC (MP 4 on US 158 - the Bypass).
For guests who have rented a home that is not keyless and do not arrive prior to 7:00 p.m. on check-in day, a drop box is located at the front door of our office located at 3620 N. Croatan Hwy. Kitty Hawk, NC 27949. Keys and check-in packets will be left in the drop box for guests who have returned a signed lease and who have paid for their reservation in full.
Where can I find my keyless entry code?
You will receive your keyless entry code via email prior to check-in.
What If I have an issue at check in?
Our guest services team is available to assist you. Call (866) 884-0267 if you need help with check in.
BOOK YOUR NEXT OBX VACATION TODAY!
By planning ahead and making the most of your pre-check-in time, you’ll start your vacation feeling relaxed and ready to enjoy everything the Outer Banks has to offer. We can’t wait to welcome you to your Seaside Vacations rental!
So whether you're hoping to come for a short stay getaway or you're excited to introduce the kiddos to some important North Carolina history while recreating memories of your childhood beach vacation, we've got the perfect place for you to stay while you're in town. There really is no bad place to stay on the Outer Banks, so why not plan a yearly trip and maybe stay in a different town each time? You're sure to find your perfect spot.
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 unforgettable adventure to the Outer Banks. There so much to do and see. With amazing food and drinks, exciting excursions, and plenty of sand for everyone to relax, there's something for everyone here on 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.
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Explore our website and give us a call to help kick-start your unforgettable Outer Banks vacation today. Be sure to follow us on BlueSky, Tumblr, Reddit, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Pinterest, and TikTok to stay up to date on all of our specials, new & featured homes, and tips & tricks for making the most of your next Outer Banks vacation.
We’ll see you at the beach.
About the Author: Lauren is an Outer Banks local, mom, history professor, and 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.
