The Outer Banks of North Caroilina are a 100-mile long stretch of barrier islands. The history of the area features stories of pirates and the first English child born in North America. Like the Northern Outer Banks that we featured previously, the Southern Outer Banks also feature forests, sand dunes, and incredible beaches, some of which look wild and untouched. Also…lighthouses!
The Southern Outer Banks consist of everything from the town of Manteo southward, ending after Ocracoke Island.
Exploring the Southern Outer Banks
Historical Landmarks
Visitors can explore the Ocracoke Lighthouse. Built in 1823, it is the oldest operating lighthouse in North Carolina.
Roanoke Island is the site of the “Lost Colony”, the first English settlement in North America. has several
In Rodanthe, known as the setting for a Nicholas Sparks novel, you will find the Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station where you can see the history of the U.S. Life-Saving Service, which later became the Coast Guard.
Outdoor Adventures
The Cape Lookout National Seashore is a popular spot for fishing, kayaking, and climbing the historic Cape Lookout Lighthouse for panoramic views.
Most of the shoreline of Ocracoke Island is U.S. National Seashore. This part of the Outer Banks has a very wild feeling.
In every town along the Outer Banks, you will have opportunities for Charter Fishing. You will find options for fishing in the sound, near-shore fishing, and deep-sea fishing.
Food and Drink
Local Cuisine
The coastal waters provide fresh seafood. Always popular are Shrimp and Grits and Crab Cakes made from the blue crabs that populate local waters. Oysters are another regional specialty, served raw, steamed, or fried. For those who prefer land fare, Pulled Pork barbecue, marinated in a vinegar-based sauce, unique to eastern North Carolina is a must. Seasonal produce like sweet corn and tomatoes are frequently featured.
Dining Experiences
Much the same as in the Northern Outer Banks, you will find waterfront dining to be abundant, with views of the sound or the ocean. There are casual restaurants as well as fine dining options. Many restaurants feature locally sourced ingredients.
Optimal Travel Times
Weather Patterns
The Southern Outer Banks experiences a temperate climate. Summer months, particularly June through August, offer warm weather perfect for beach activities, with average temperatures around 76°F to 86°F. Winter is cooler, with temperatures averaging from 40°F to 50°F.
Tourist Traffic
Due to tourist season, traffic is greatest in the summer, from June to August. Spring (April to early June) and fall (September to October) have far less tourist traffic. Being more sparsely populated than the north, the Southern Outer Banks get very little traffic in the winter. This is especially true for Ocracoke Island, which is only accessible by ferry.
Accommodations
When planning a trip to the Southern Outer Banks, selecting the right accommodation is crucial to enjoying your stay. Whether you prefer the comforts of a hotel, the privacy of a vacation rental, or the charm of a bed and breakfast, there’s something for everyone.
Hotels
The Southern Outer Banks has fewer chain hotels than further north. The majority of accommodations are locally owned The Breakwater Inn, located in Hatteras, has stunning views and easy beach access. On Ocracoke Island, you will find Blackbeard’s Lodge and the Ocracoke Harbor Inn.
Vacation Rentals
Vacation rentals are plentiful and provide a more personalized home-away-from-home experience. Options range from cozy cottages to spacious beachfront houses. Major rental companies like Bluewater Vacation Rentals and Sun Realty offer listings. AirBnB and VRBO don’t seem to have many offerings in this area.
Amenities might include full kitchens, private decks, and hot tubs.
Bed and Breakfasts
Experience local charm at a bed and breakfast. These intimate accommodations often include a homemade breakfast and personalized recommendations for your visit. The Lighthouse Inn near Cape Lookout is popular and known for its nautical theme.
Transportation
Arriving By Air
The nearest major airport to the Southern Outer Banks is Coastal Carolina Regional Airport (EWN) located in New Bern, North Carolina. Frequent flyers will find direct flights from a small number of cities. Most flights require a connection from a larger city. From the airport, it is approximately a 2 to 3-hour drive to reach the much of the Southern Outer Banks.
Driving Directions
Driving to the Outer Banks offers scenic views and flexibility. Major routes include US Highway 70 and NC Highway 12. These roads are well-maintained and provide easy access to various towns and attractions along the coast.
Public Transportation
Public transport is very limited in this area. It would be best to reconsider if you were plannihng on using public transportation.
Travel Tips
Packing Essentials
- Comfortable Clothing: Pack light layers and comfortable shoes for walking and exploring. The weather can change, so be prepared for both sunny and cooler days.
- Beach Gear: Don’t forget essentials like swimsuits, towels, sunscreen, and hats for those long beach days.
- Emergency Kit: Include a basic first aid kit, medications, and copies of important documents.
Health and Safety
- Stay Hydrated: Keep a water bottle on hand to stay hydrated, especially during outdoor activities.
- Sun Protection: Apply sunscreen regularly, and seek shade during the midday when the sun is strongest.
- Know Local Clinics: Familiarize oneself with the locations of nearby clinics or hospitals in case of an emergency.
Money-Saving Tips
- Dining: Opt for accommodations with a kitchen to prepare some meals and save on dining costs.
- Attractions: Research free or low-cost attractions and events in the area to enjoy without breaking the bank.
- Travel Off-Peak: Visit outside of the peak summer season to benefit from lower accommodation rates and fewer crowds. The months of September and October are especially nice.
Ocracoke Island – A Special Note
At the southern tip of the Outer Banks is Ocracoke Island – a special place for my family and me. It is a 13-mile-long island, 10 miles of which is National Seashore. The town of Ocracoke is on the southern end of the island. Ocracoke can be reached only by ferry. There is not one franchise restaurant on the island. The usual beachy entertainment venues are minimal. I can’t recall there even being a single traffic light on the island. Thus it has a very nostalgic, old-fashioned feel (if you ignore the golf carts). If you really need to find a happy place to relax and unwind, this is your spot. However, I would not recommend going to Ocracoke in the winter, Much is shut down and ferry schedules are reduced.
Final Thoughts
The Outer Banks – both northern and southern – are wonderful places to visit, especially if you like uncrowded beaches and relaxed days and nights. The atmosphere is special, not in a Miami Beach way. More of a wholesome, laid-back way.
The Southern Outer Banks are at sea level. There are sand dunes, but walking on them is not necessary – walk on them only if you want. The towns are small and spread out, so only a few areas are walkable. There are some hiking trails, but they aren’t challenging. Getting to beaches will require a short walk over loose sand. Therefore the Southern Outer Banks earns a rating of Good on our Creaky Knees Index.
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