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How to Make the Most of Your Trip From Raleigh to the Outer Banks

02/21/2020 | by Joseph Mitchell | Outer Banks Travel Tips

Everyone needs to escape for a relaxing weekend retreat every once in a while. That’s why a road trip from Raleigh to the Outer Banks is one of the best staycations in the Tarheel State. Keep reading to discover more ways to make the most of your weekend beach retreat!

Don’t forget to download a copy of our complimentary Outer Banks Vacation Guide for a complete list of the best restaurants, attractions, and activities in the area.

The Best Way to Travel From Raleigh to the Outer Banks

The trip from Raleigh to the Outer Banks by car is about three hours. Since the Outer Banks only has regional airports, most visitors traveling from afar fly into Raleigh-Durham International Airport. It is about three hours and 20 minutes if you rent a car and drive from the airport. There are a handful of routes you can take from Raleigh to the Outer Banks, but we recommend jumping on Highway 64 from Interstate 540 and taking that all the way to the North Carolina coast. It’s an easy, no-sweat trip that only sees traffic on the check-in and check-out days closer to the Outer Banks. 

Of course, Raleigh-Durham area residents can always stow away for an easy weekend trip. Keep reading to discover some great vacation ideas for a quick retreat to our beautiful coastline!

Outer Banks Weekend Getaway Ideas

Family Beach Weekend

Planning a family beach weekend on Roanoke Island is one of the best ways to make the most of your journey from Raleigh to the Outer Banks. You’ll find an incredible array of activities and attractions for both kids and adults, ranging from an aquarium to a pirate ship cruise! There is also plenty of history to explore and, of course, the beautiful stretches of golden sand.

Romantic Escape

Our condos are perfect for couples who want to escape from Raleigh to the Outer Banks for a weekend. You can relax on your balcony overlooking Roanoke Sound as you sip a glass of wine next to your significant other during the late hours of the evening. There are also plenty of restaurants, activities, and attractions for couples to enjoy together!

Outdoor Adventure

The Outer Banks is full of adventures for even the most intrepid explorer. Whether you love watersports, hiking, biking, or swimming, there’s something here for everyone. The Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge, Nags Head Woods Preserve Trail, and Jockey’s Ridge State Park are just a few of the unique wilderness areas that are unique to the coast. 

Explore our blog for more ways to make the most of your weekend getaway to the Outer Banks!

Plan Your Trip to the Outer BanksPirate's Cove Resort

Browse our list of Pirate’s Cove Realty vacation rentals for inspiration for your next beach trip! Our collection of condos and homes throughout Roanoke Island, including Manteo, our private community, and Shallowbag Bay, will surely have the ideal property for your needs.

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