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How to Plan the Ultimate Outer Banks Three-Day Itinerary

12/09/2019 | by Joseph Mitchell | Outer Banks Travel Tips

The North Carolina coast is a fantastic destination for a quick weekend getaway. Our beautiful beaches, fascinating history, and collection of shops and restaurants make it easy to fill up a three-day Outer Banks itinerary. Keep reading for an inside look at our recommendations for spending a long weekend in our beautiful coastal paradise!

Don’t forget to download your free copy of our Manteo Vacation Guide! It’s full of more shops, restaurants, and activities.

Your Outer Banks Three-Day Itinerary

Day One – Hit the Beach

Your three-day Outer Banks itinerary must include at least one day spent on the beach. You’ll discover an incredible array of activities for everyone in your family. Lay out a towel and some beach chairs before you and your kids frolic together on the sand and in the refreshing waters of the Atlantic. Relax under your umbrella while reading your favorite book and tan under the warm Outer Banks sun. Make sure you check the weather before heading out to enjoy a leisurely day on the beach!

Of course, if you don’t want to lounge around or have a lazy beach day, there are plenty of ways to have an exciting time on the sand. Kiteboarding and surfing are two of the most popular beach activities that will quickly fill up one day of your three-day Outer Banks itinerary. 

Day Two – Explore Outer Banks History

So, you think the Outer Banks only consists of sun and sand? Well, think again! This beautiful stretch of coastline is home to more history than you can imagine. Roanoke Island was once the home of the first attempted English settlement in the United States. Several museums convey the fascinating maritime heritage that includes tales and legends of pirates and sailors. If you want to explore recent history, head over to the Wright Brothers National Memorial to investigate an array of planes, artifacts, and a beautiful monument honoring the origins of flight in Kitty Hawk. Below are a few of our favorite museums and showcases that you should include on your three-day Outer Banks itinerary.

Day Three – Shop and Eat

If you love seafood and shopping, you’re in for a treat in the Outer Banks. Between mom and pop stores and outlets malls, you’ll discover a plethora of shops throughout Manteo, Nags Head, Kitty Hawk, and Kill Devil Hills. Seafood is fresh here on the North Carolina coast. And there are plenty of restaurants with water views that are perfect for taking in a sunset while digging into shrimp, fish, crabs, and more! Check out a few of our favorite places to shop and eat! Of course, if you love the beach, you can always substitute another day of sun and sand on your three-day Outer Banks itinerary.

Discover the Ultimate Outer Banks GetawayManteo, NC

Pirate’s Cove has an extensive collection condo and home rentals that fit your Outer Banks weekend getaway. Whether you want to stay close to the shops and restaurants in downtown Manteo or relax with your kids in our family-friendly gated community, we have a wide variety of sizes and locations for your ideal vacation.

Start planning your trip today by booking one of our properties. We look forward to welcoming you to Pirate’s Cove!