Outer Banks in Winter: Things to Do

Outer Banks Winter Activities

Benefits of Visiting the Outer Banks in Winter

Even though vacationers often visit the Outer Banks during the summer for some fun in the sun, there are still plenty of Outer Banks winter activities that make it worth visiting during the off-season. The Outer Banks during Winter is slower and much cozier, so you’ll get to take advantage of the full island and the surrounding area without needing to wait in long lines, and likely at a cheaper rate.

Additionally, there are plenty of fun and exciting activities to enjoy in the Outer Banks in winter without ever stepping on the beach, such as visiting holiday light displays, browsing local art galleries, or finding unique treasures at a local antique shop. All in all, Outer Banks in the winter is a wonderful escape that will leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.

Things to Do in the Outer Banks in Winter

The Outer Banks has a number of attractions that are just as exciting in the winter as they are in the summer. You'll find plenty of  things to do on the Outer Banks that offer year-round appeal, but there are also amazing seasonal holiday events to check out, particularly if you visit the Outer Banks in December. With both indoor and outdoor activities that are fun for the whole family, you'll be able to find something you'll love, no matter your budget.

Visit a Lighthouse

Currituck Beach Lighthouse

One of the best things to do while traffic is lighter on the Outer Banks is to visit the multiple lighthouses that once actively patroled the shores from Corolla to Ocracoke. While most lighthouses will be closed for climbing during the winter, strolling by and seeing these brilliant structures against the beautiful natural landscape of the Outer Banks is sure to be an unforgettable experience. Time it right, and you'll be able to see all 5 lighthouses during your stay including the Currituck Beach Lighthouse, the Bodie Island Lighthouse, the Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse, the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, and the Ocracoke Island Lighthouse. Catch a glimps of these massive pieces of history and be sure to come back again during the summer for the chance to actually climb them and see the Outer Banks from above!

Spend a Day at the Wright Brothers Museum (Kill Devil Hills)

Wright Brothers Image

No trip to the Outer Banks is complete without a visit to The Wright Brothers Museum. Come celebrate America's first flight in one of the most beautiful places in the world! Walk the ground of the Wright Brothers Memorial and walk in the footsteps of history. For even more fun, plan your Outer Banks winter vacation around December 17th and experience Wright Brothers Day in the spot where it happened. Enjoy exhibits, speakers, and a full day of celebration commemorating this amazing feat.

• The Wright Brothers Memorial is located at 1000 N. Croatan Hwy., Kill Devil Hills, 27948.
• They are open 9 AM – 5 PM daily year-round (other than on Christmas Day).
• Tickets for Adults (16+) cost $10 while children 15 and younger are free.

Visit the Cape Hatteras National Seashore (Hatteras Island)

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

Who says the beach can't be wonderful in the winter? In fact, the winter is one of the best times to visit the beach where you will be able to experience unforgettable sunsets and a much more secluded experience during the off-season. Take the time to look for ghost crabs in the evening or search for sea glass along the shoreline. There are also hundreds of species of birds that call this area of the world home, so why not try out your birding skills and see how many you can find? 

Explore the North Carolina Aquarium (Roanoke Island)

Visit Aquarium on Roanoke Island

Few educational places out there excite both kids and adults the way that aquariums do. The concept and design of aquariums has come a long way in the era of environmental preservation and for those that exist for the purpose of research, education and conservation, they can be a great resource to the local ecology. The North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island celebrates the unique geography and diverse ecosystem of the Outer Banks and is a great place to spend the afternoon! In fact, in 2019, USA Today recently named the North Carolina Aquarium system #7 in the Top 10 Best Aquariums in North America! If you love the Outer Banks and learning about marine life, take a short drive to Manteo and experience this aquarium in Outer Banks, NC for yourself!

• The NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island is located at 374 Airport Rd. Manteo, NC 27954.
• They are open 9 AM – 5 PM daily year-round (other than on Thanksgiving and Christmas).
• Tickets range in cost with Adults (13-61) costing $12.95, Seniors (62+) $11.95, Military $11.95, and Children (3 – 12) $10.95. Children 2 and younger get in free. NC Aquarium Society Members also get free admission.*

Enjoy Less-Crowded Walks on the Beach

Winter Beach Sunset

One of the best perks of visiting the Outer Banks in the winter is the sheer untouched beauty of the beaches in the off-season! This undeniably beautiful stretch of beach often finds itself on a number of National "Best Beaches" lists, including world-renowned beach expert "Dr. Beach's" annual round-up of best American beaches. And during the winter, you can take in all the beauty and splendor of nature's favorite backdrop without the crowds! And if a polar plunge isn't quite your thing, this is also one of the best times to go beachcombing in the morning! Take advantage of the winter winds coming in and snatch up some beautiful shells, sea glass, and more.

Go Hiking on the Nature Trails

Outer Banks Hiking Mountains to Sea Trail

There are some incredible spots to go hiking on the Outer Banks and the winter is one of the best times to do so! Come check out these beautiful local spots like the Currituck Banks Reserve, Nags Head Woods Preserve, and Jockey's Ridge State Park this off-season! You'll find plenty of opportunities to enjoy the flora and fauna of the Outer Banks without the heat and mosquitos. There are also an abundance of maritime forests that provide the chance to see a unique ecosystem in action. It's hard to overestimate just how cool it is to see Kitty Hawk Woods on a chilly winter morning with the birds, deer, and more providing a calming spot to recharge and start your day.

Go Birdwatching

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The winter is an amazing time to go on the incredible scavenger hunt that is birdwatching on the Outer Banks! Whether you're searching for geese, ducks, heron, or osprey, there are dozens of different types of birds to be on the lookout for on the OBX. Check out our guide to birdwatching to find out some of the best places to visit, the types of birds you'll see during the different times of year, and tips for making the most of your birdwatching adventures.

Explore Breweries, Wineries, and Distilleries

Explore Breweries, Wineries, and Distilleries

When it starts getting chilly outside, there's no better time to find a delicious way to warm up! Use this time to check out some of the best places to grab a drink on the Outer Banks. Make your way over to one of the OBX's breweries and beer gardens for local brews that are sure to become your new favorite. For the wine drinkers, check out our Outer Banks Wine Tour and don't miss out a free wine tasting at Sanctuary Vineyards. Seaside Vacations guests can receive a FREE Reserve Wine Tasting and a tour of the winery with their reservation number! For something a little harder, take some time to check out the distilleries to explore on the Outer Banks! And as an added bonus, Seaside Vacations guests can receive a 35% discount on Buffalo City Distillery's Taste of History Tour.

Enjoy a Spa Day or Yoga Retreat

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Less crowds on the beaches also means that this is the perfect opportunity to prep for a spa day or a yoga wellness retreat! Treat yourself to a massage, acupuncture, or yoga class to help beat those winter blues and make the most of your winter escape on the Outer Banks. Influenced by the peace and calm of the ocean, there are countless spas and massage therapy spots up and down the beach with everything you need to relax and unwind. Check out Outer Banks Spas and Wellness Centers here or check out the Best Outer Banks Yoga Spots for even more ideas. And while you're at it, don't miss out on the chance to save! Seaside Vacations guests can get a 10% discount the cost of a cave session (usually $39) at The Outer Banks Salt Cave! Looking for something a little more intense? Seaside Vacations guests can also receive a 10% discount on hydration therapy with OBX Renew IV To You!

Go Stargazing

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You may have heard a lot of discussion recently about being able to see the planets or stars - and the Outer Banks is one of the world's top places to catch an uninhibited glimpse! The Cape Hatteras National Seashore has been nominated as one of the best locations in the world to catch a glimpse of the Milky Way and both Ocracoke and Duck have been listed as some of the best places to stargaze in North Carolina. So when the beaches are a little more empty and the nightlife is a little more calm, grab your telescope and get outside! Check the weather and plan around the New Moon to ensure a memorable, clear stargazing experience. Check our Outer Banks Stargazing Guide for even more ways to make your winter OBX stargazing adventure one for the books.

Explore the Graveyard of the Atlantic (South Nags Head/Hatteras Island)

Outer Banks Shipwreck

The Outer Banks is famously known as the Graveyard of the Atlantic due to the thousands of ships that have sunk off its treacherous shores. While many of these wrecks are located in deeper waters for experienced divers, some of the most famous ones are surprisingly close to the beach and can be visible from the shore, especially after a winter storm.

Take a drive or a walk along the Cape Hatteras National Seashore to catch a glimpse of this fascinating history. You might even spot the wreck of the Oriental, also known as the "Boiler Wreck," which is often visible near Pea Island. Looking for these historical artifacts can be a unique and captivating way to experience the Outer Banks in the winter.

Outer Banks Holiday Events & Celebrations

Beach Holidays

There are so many exciting holiday events to experience on the Outer Banks during the winter season. You'll find a variety of ways to get into the holiday spirit, from dazzling light displays to charming local markets.

• Winter Lights at the Elizabethan Gardens: The Elizabethan Gardens in Manteo are transformed into a magical winter wonderland with thousands of beautiful lights.

• Manteo Christmas Tree Lighting: A cherished local tradition where the town square glows with festive cheer as the magnificent tree is lit, often with music and other activities.

• Duck Yuletide Celebration: A community event in the town of Duck featuring live holiday music, treats, and the lighting of the famous Crab Pot Tree.

• Kites with Lights at Jockey's Ridge: A spectacular display where large, illuminated kites fill the night sky over Jockey's Ridge State Park in Nags Head.

• Anniversary of the Wright Brothers' First Flight: On December 17th, visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial to commemorate this historic achievement. The park often hosts special programs and ceremonies.

• Holiday Markets & Shopping: Looking for the perfect Christmas gift? The Outer Banks hosts several fun holiday markets where you can find unique, locally made crafts, art, and treats.

• New Year's Eve on the Outer Banks: If you're staying through the New Year, you'll find lots of wonderful ways to celebrate. Many local restaurants and venues host special New Year's Eve parties and events.

So, whatever way you celebrate, you're sure to find that the Outer Banks is one of the most amazing places to be any time of the year.