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5 Unique Things to Do in the Outer Banks, North Carolina (Hidden Gems!)

My family has held our big reunion in the Outer Banks of North Carolina for the past 12 years. Think catholic grandparents with eight kids who went on to make 21 grandchildren (of which I am the youngest and the biggest blessing, duh). And we’ve kept spawning from there! We returned in 2013 as a throwback to our original family reunion trip in 1995 (when I barely knew my ABCs). As a North Carolina native and annual visitor, I thought coverage of all the unique things to do in the Outer Banks was the perfect kick-off to my NC series exploring all the hidden gems this state has to offer. 

We just got back from our week in Corolla, NC, where we rented a big house on the beach. Reminder, note the paragraph above for the family member count. Splitting a massive house ends up being way cheaper than a hotel, though it does feel pretty snazzy all the same. The weather was a little touch and go this year, but all in all, a great trip, packed to the brim with beaching, exploring, and lots of yummy food (one of my favorite trios!). 

Below, I’ve compiled a list of my favorite, unique things to do around the Outer Banks, whether you’re looking to be a beach bum, grab a local coffee, or hit the shops. 

For more unique travel guides or to catch my travel series exploring hidden gems in North Carolina, follow @accentgolden on social!

side angle island bookstore historic corolla, nc unique things to do in the Outer Banks

1. Visit Historic Corolla

Ok, confession time, it took me almost 10 years to discover this cute historic town at the tippy top of Corolla, and I’m so giddy that I did. I can confirm now that this is my favorite spot and such a unique thing to do on the Outer Banks. Perfect for a stroll and a morning well spent. Here are some of the highlights:

  1. The Kind Cup – Delightful little coffee shop complete with all your favorite beverages, some with a unique twist (hello Corolla Fog). Plus, rooms filled with an assortment of practical and fun creations by local artists and genuinely cool OBX gear
  2. The Island Bookstore – I mean, who doesn’t love a small local bookshop?! Filled with all the goodies and reading nooks
  3. The Juice Jar – For fans of drinking their fruits and veggies, find a fun list of beverages, açai bowls, and a few fresh bites
  4. Waters Edge Village School – Might seem rando to include a school on the list, but my Anne of Green Gables lovers (or think Little House on the Prairie) will get the thrills from this small schoolhouse
  5. Whalehead Mansion – A pop of color in an old historic home, restored into its original “1920s-era Art Nouveau-style” and open for tours. The verdict is still out on whether or not it’s haunted, though… If you get scared, head over to the historic bridge, which 100% gives Lord of the Rings vibes, so maybe it will protect you?
  6. Currituck Beach Lighthouse – Hidden in the trees, hike this 220-step brick lighthouse built in 1873 (note there is a $13 entry fee). Head next door to the museum shop when you’re finished and then to the Maritime Museum afterwards (if you’re a fan of stuffed creatures for free).
beach homes in outer banks unique things to do in the Outer Banks

2. Hit the Beach

You don’t have to rent a house on the beach to spend your day baking away (and by that I do mean your body, but if you’re looking for deliciously easy treats, check these out!). You’ll find plenty of popular public access points in Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, and Nags Head. If you’re looking for a low-key beach hang, head to Corolla. Drive along Lighthouse Rd, where you’ll find signs for public parking lots and beach access points every few houses. 

boardwalk shops in duck, nc unique things to do in the Outer Banks

3. Walk around Duck

One of my favorite little towns to explore on the Outer Banks is Duck, NC. If you’re heading to Corolla, you’ll drive right through it. There are shops, restaurants, watersports, and more! Here are some of my must-see spots:

  • Duck Town Park Boardwalk – Explore all the shops and a few restaurants, plus pretty views of the Currituck Sound
  • Winged Horse Sightings – Count the number of colorful winged horses you can find along the Outer Banks, many of which are right in Duck 
  • Duck Donuts – Originated right in this town, stop by for a freshly made donut with unique toppings. My favorites are the sunrise and the s’more!
  • Green Acre Market – Small produce stand if you need some fresh fruit before you hit the beach
  • Donutz on a Stick – I come here every year for their mini donut ice cream sundaes. Drooling just thinking about it. They make them right in front of you and are so GOOD! Plus, they have some random odds and ends throughout the shop to peruse while you wait.

4. Explore the Shops

If you’re looking for a day hopping in and out of the air conditioning, the shops around the Outer Banks have you covered. Explore The Seaside Farmers Market at the entrance to the Timbuck II shopping center in Corolla, NC. Two birds, one stone, ya know? Up the street, you’ll find the Corolla Light town center with shops, restaurants, and, of course, mini golf. If you leave Duck, Corolla, and the Southern Shores behind, you’ll find shops and outlets all along the main strip of the Outer Banks. Taking you through Nags Head, Kill Devil Hills, and Kitty Hawk.                   

5. Uncover More Hidden Gems

  • The Sanderling – Whether you need a place to stay or simply a spa day, this place, right on the beach, has you covered. One of my cousins even got married here, and let me tell ya, some of the best wedding food I’ve ever had 
  • Boardwalk along Whale Head Bay – This is truly a hidden gem. The Outer Banks are relatively skinny, especially in certain spots. If you’re visiting Corolla and staying on the beach side, the bay is just across the main street. Go for a walk along Austin Street, crossing over North Carolina Hwy 12 (it’s a two-lane street at this point, don’t worry). There you’ll find the Lighthouse Cove neighborhood. Between some of the houses are access points to a simple boardwalk, perfect for a bike ride or catching the sunset 
  • See Real Wild Horses – Got four-wheel drive? Perfect. Drive through Corolla to the end of North Carolina Hwy 12 until you hit N. Beach Access Road. The pavement will end soon after, where you’ll hit the beach. If you get stuck, there are tow trucks to help get you out, for a price… From here, drive along the beach and keep an eye out for the beautiful wild horses exploring the sand!

 

Looking for additional activities? Check out even more unique things to do in the Outer Banks:

Jockey’s Ridge State Park – If you’re looking for sand dunes, look no further. This park has the tallest living dune on the Atlantic! Hike, sandboard, fly kites, or simply watch the sunset. Bonus points, it’s FREE for day use (but if you want to make a reservation to camp or for an event, find more information here)
Wright Brothers National Memorial – Great activity for kids (came here for a middle school field trip myself way back when). Fun history lesson surrounding the “first in flight” slogan you’ll see featured on many North Carolina license plates. If you have a National Parks Pass, congrats, your entry is free. If not, no worries, entrance is also free if you’re 15 or below and $10 for anyone 16+ 
– NC Aquarium at Roanoke Island – If there aren’t enough fish in the sea (get it?), head over to Roanoke Island for some marine life exploration. I’ve not been to this aquarium, so I can’t personally attest to it, but I’ve been told it’s a fun activity for kids (especially on a rainy day). Their website does recommend making reservations in advance. Check out those details and pricing here

There ya have it! Some of my favorite, unique things to do in the Outer Banks for a perfect beach week.

Follow @accentgolden on social for more travel guides, packing lists, tips, and tricks, and be sure to tag me in your posts if you explore any of these areas so I can see what you get up to!

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