If you want the beach to yourself and still be able to enjoy some warm days on the water, you have to visit the Outer Banks in October! The mild temperatures and smaller crowds will have you making an October trip to Roanoke Island every fall. Plus, the season brings plenty of events that are fun for the whole family!
For more ways to make the most of your trip to the OBX, be sure to request access to our complimentary Manteo, NC Travel Guide. It’s full of the best things to do and places to see during your stay.
Everything You Need to Know Before You Go to the Outer Banks in October
October Weather in the Outer Banks
October is a great time of year to hit the beach with few crowds. Highs in October usually get up to the mid-70s making it the ideal temperature to read a book all day on the beach while the kids play in the sand. You’ll have no problem finding a private spot to call your own for the day. The evenings can dip into the 50s, so you can throw on a sweater and sit on your rentals breezy balcony as the sun sets.
Things to Do in the Outer Banks in October
Enjoy the Beach
There’s nothing better than relaxing on the beaches of the North Carolina coast, especially without peak season crowds. Head to Nags Head Beach and Kill Devil Hills Beach during your trip to the Outer Banks in October for plenty of family fun. Home to wild horses, Corolla offers a unique experience for people looking for something a little different.
Go to a Haunted Attraction
If you’re visiting the Outer Banks in October, it will be spooky season with Halloween right around the corner. What better way to celebrate than with a haunted attraction in the area. Wicked Woods is a haunted trail just 20 minutes from Manteo in East Lake. It typically runs every Friday and Saturday in October and of course, special hours on Halloween. Their actors are sure to scare your socks off!
Right on Roanoke Island, OBX Ghost Tours provides spooky walking tours that the whole family will love. Stroll around Manteo in the evening while your guide tells you the best ghost stories from the Outer Banks, one of the most haunted beaches in the U.S. Plus, you can take a tour year-round rather than just during the Halloween season.
Check Out a Fall Event
Each Columbus Day Weekend, the Duck Jazz Festival takes the stage. The free event celebrates jazz music with two full days of legendary and new musicians.
Outer Banks Bluegrass Island Festival
This annual music festival takes place at the Roanoke Island Festival Park each October. The event always boasts an impressive lineup of both traditional and modern bluegrass acts.
If you’re looking for a truly unique Outer Banks event, this is it! Contestants build human-powered flying machines to see who can launch an empty keg barrel the furthest. We know it sounds weird, but it’s tons of fun! Aside from the competition, the event includes lots of beer, live music, and plenty of activities for kids.
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Book Your October Beach Getaway
Pirate’s Cove Realty has the perfect property for your next escape to the North Carolina coast! Our collection of rentals on Roanoke Island feature condos, large homes, and charming cottages at a variety of locations around Manteo. From a private gated community on the water to downtown Manteo, you’ll find the ideal fit for your family or group.
Start planning your getaway today by booking one of our properties. We look forward to welcoming you to the Outer Banks soon!
