There are numerous outdoor activities for you to enjoy with your family and friends while exploring the Outer Banks in the summertime. If you want to experience a true Outer Banks adventure, consider trying different watersports or hiking some of the beautiful nature trails. Check out this list of watersports and other outdoor activities to enjoy while on the Outer Banks!
 Kayaking
The Outer Banks is surrounded by water, and there are many different types of kayaking adventures that are available for you. You can try sound kayaking, such as in the Currituck Sound, the Albemarle Sound, and the Pamlico Sound. With your Outer Banks kayak, you can relax while experiencing the beautiful water on the Outer Banks from a different point of view. Plan a kayaking trip in the evening and watch an unforgettable Outer Banks sunset! Launch sites for kayaks are located throughout the Outer Banks. These sites include the Kitty Hawk Woods Coastal Reserve and the Canadian Hole near Avon and Buxton. You can also try ocean kayaking if you are comfortable riding the waves! If you choose to go use your Outer Banks kayak in the ocean, make sure to pay attention to rip currents. Enjoy your time on the beach while also trying a great watersport!
Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Stand up paddle boarding has transitioned into a more popular watersport in recent years, especially on the Outer Banks. It is a unique way to enjoy the water while on the Outer Banks. With a paddle board, along with a paddle, flotation device, and leash, you can have an outdoor adventure! Check out Outer Banks paddle board rentals and consider trying paddle boarding on the sound, such as the Roanoke Sound or the Croatan Sound, from Roanoke Island! If you have more experience, consider trying out the sport in the ocean while enjoying a day on the beach.
Surfing
Surfing is one of the most popular sports on the Outer Banks for locals and visitors. Nags Head and Cape Hatteras are two of the best places on the Outer Banks to enjoy surfing. Jennette’s Pier is a popular surfing location, and you can also go fishing, participate in tournaments and contests, and take classes there. Spend an afternoon at Jennette’s Pier and try surfing while you are there! Cape Hatteras has been considered one of the top surfing destinations. You can travel to the southern end of the Outer Banks and surf near Cape Point while on Hatteras Island as well. You do not want to miss the chance to surf on the Outer Banks!
Hiking and Walking along Nature Trails
In addition to the variety of watersports available on the Outer Banks, you can also have a great Outer Banks adventure while exploring our peaceful nature trails and parks. Visit the 10 acres of the Elizabethan Gardens in Manteo to learn more about a key part of Outer Banks history. Jockey’s Ridge State Park in Nags Head, a 416-acre park, is the largest active sand dune on the East Coast. You do not want to miss the chance to climb the sand dune and walk along the nature trails. There are also nature-related programs to participate in throughout the year. The Nags Head Woods Ecological Preserve is another great destination for an Outer Banks adventure. Enjoy the sand dunes, marshes, and more while walking near protected natural habitats!
From watersports to beautiful nature trails, the Outer Banks offers a variety of outdoor adventures for residents and visitors. Check out our Outer Banks equipment rentals and start planning your Outer Banks adventures!
