OBX Beach Day Bucket List

Who’s ready for summer?! We are! Summer on the Outer Banks is hard to beat. Warm, sun filled days. Clear, gorgeous water. Beaches that stretch for miles. With so many things to do and see, it can be hard to choose, and costs can add up quickly – but they don’t have to! So, how to choose? How to plan? What to do first? We have got you covered with our Beach Day Bucket List! First, be sure to have plenty of water and sunscreen and then set off for a day on the Outer Banks that also happens to be budget friendly.

1. Watch the sunrise on the beach.

We know it’s vacation. We know it’s early. Trust us, it’s worth it. 

2. Swim in the ocean.

Seems obvious but…again…worth it. The salt water is simply good for the soul. Splash and swim, catch a wave and take in the refreshing feeling. Be sure to check ocean conditions before jumping in and always swim near a lifeguard.

3. Build a sandcastle.

Not just for children. You will be surprised how quickly your whole crowd gets involved. Strategic planning? Check. Team building? Check. Friendly competition? Check. Fun for all ages? Check. Share pictures of your masterpiece, tag us @southernshoresrealtyobx and let's see your creativity!

4. Have a beach picnic.

Pro tip: Pack individual lunch bags before heading out – sandwich, chips, cookies, fruit and a drink. Write names on the bags so when EVERYONE is hungry at the same time lunch is ready - no mess and no sandy preparation! Bonus: the lunch sack is its own trash bag so you can easily collect and dispose of trash.

5. Hunt for sea glass.

Treasure hunting at its finest. How many different shapes and colors can you find?

6. Visit a lighthouse.

There are four lighthouses on the Outer Banks: The Currituck Beach Lighthouse in Corolla and three lighthouses managed by the National Park Service: The Bodie Island Lighthouse, The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse and the Ocracoke Island Lighthouse. Each has its own personality. The grounds and picturesque views abound at each lighthouse and there are no costs to visit the grounds, museums, or gift shops. Learn about history, coastal navigation, and view the architecture and design of these structures up close. Fees may be charged if you would like to climb or enter the lighthouses.

7. Enjoy a family-style meal.

Whether it’s a local restaurant or at your beach rental, evening meals are a time filled with laughter and storytelling as the laid-back vacation vibes settle in and friends and family gather for great food and family time.

8. Watch the sunset.

With panoramic views of the ocean and sound, watching the sunset from the top of the dunes at Jockey’s Ridge State Park is an experience unique to the Outer Banks. Alternately, a stroll on the Duck boardwalk at sunset provides front row access to watch the sun go down over the sound.  

Pro tip: Sunset is prime time for ice cream consumption. Prior to sunset, stop at a local ice cream shop or grocery store for individual cups with lids and spoons. Pop them in the freezer until you head to your viewing destination. Once you find your perfect spot, unpack and enjoy your sweet treat as the sun sets. Don’t forget the napkins! Just like your picnic lunch – be sure to collect any trash and take it with you. 

9. Go ghost crab hunting at night.

Enter laughter and squeals of joy as ghost crabs scramble to return to hiding under the bright lights of your flashlights and glow sticks.

10. Stargaze

End your day where it started, at the beach. Look up. You will be amazed. Lights are low. Stars are bright.