An Outer Banks Vacation for the Whole Family
Thanks to the variety of activities available, an Outer Banks vacation is perfect for all ages.
From the beautiful beaches of the north to the mysterious history of Roanoke Island, there's a little something to interest visitors of all ages on an Outer Banks vacation.
Part of North Carolina and located off its coast, the Outer Banks boasts quaint and picturesque fishing villages, fascinating historical attractions, and windswept beaches just right for a family vacation.
Outer Banks Towns
Traveling up and down the Outer Banks, you'll find a number of small towns, each one a little different than the one before.
In the north, guests can visit the towns of Duck, Southern Shores, Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, Nags Head, and Whalebone Junction. Some of these towns are steeped in history while others resemble old fishing towns of days-gone-by.
Just below these towns, near Manteo and nestled between the Banks and the mainland, you'll find Roanoke Island. Take time to learn about what happened to the original inhabitants of this "lost colony." Fascinating!
Further south, the 75 miles of beaches at Cape Hatteras National Seashore welcome families with open arms to enjoy its quiet wilderness beaches.
Still further south, Ocracoke Island, one of the Outer Banks barrier islands, gives visitors another look at beautiful old lighthouses and historic sites. Be sure to see the famous Banker Ponies that inhabit the island and find out how they got there.
Cultural and Historical Attractions
One of the first stops you'll want to make is in Kitty Hawk at the Wright Brothers Memorial. This is the site of the first controlled powered flight, which took place in 1903. The visitor center is fascinating.
The Outer Banks History Center provides adults with a large research facility where they can gather in-depth information about the Outer Banks including its history and natural resources.
The Roanoke Island Festival Park is a must for visitors on an Outer Banks vacation. This 27-acre cultural center is home to wonderful historical exhibits and amazing fine arts productions.
Beaches
The Cape Hatteras National Seashore was the first national seashore in the country. It stretches for more than 70 miles from Nags Head to Ocracoke. Visitors can view natural and historic attractions.
Seasonal camping is welcome and a number of interesting nature programs are offered to both kids and adults through the National Park Service.
Of course, Cape Hatteras is also a great place to just relax, unwind, and enjoy the beaches and the waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
Lighthouses
Travelers who make it a point to stop at each lighthouse they stumble upon on their trips will have the opportunity to view five fine examples while on their Outer Banks vacation.
Each lighthouse is a little different and they can be found at Bodie Island, Cape Hatteras, Currituck, Ocracoke, and Roanoke Marshes.
Parks and Wildlife
There's plenty of natural beauty to enjoy while in the Outer Banks. Check out the wildlife refuges at Alligator River, Pea Island, and Nags Head Woods for a look at some interesting birds and other native species.
The Elizabethan Gardens are stunning and provide a lovely place for an afternoon stroll. Jockeys Ridge State Park is home to the largest natural living sand dune on the East Coast and is a terrific place for kite flying.
Getting There
It's easy to reach the Outer Banks via automobile from either the northern or southern East Coast and the drive is picturesque and pleasant. Flying there is a bit more difficult.
The closest international airport is located in Norfolk, Virginia, a little more than 75 miles to the top of the Outer Banks.
Local airports that accommodate small planes are the Dare County Regional Airport, near Roanoke Island, and the First Flight Airstrip in Kill Devil Hills. The latter has very limited facilities.
Posted by Pat on Friday, July 22, 2005