family at the beach

7 of the Best Family Activities in the Outer Banks

12/11/2020 | by Joseph Mitchell | Outer Banks Attractions and Activities

Are you and the kids ready to enjoy an exciting adventure in our coastal paradise? There are tons of fantastic family activities in the Outer Banks! From the beach to water parks to wild horses you won’t believe what’s waiting here for you. 

For more ways to make the most of your trip to the Outer Banks, be sure to request access to our complimentary Vacation Guide! 

The Best Family Activities Outer Banks 

Relax on the Beach 

One of the best family activities in the Outer Banks is spending days on the beach. Between playing in the ocean, building sandcastles, and running around on the sand, your little ones will have plenty of opportunities to tire themselves out!  

Visit the Aquarium 

The North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island is one of the best places to visit with kids in the Outer Banks. Discover and learn about the native marine life of the North Carolina coast and prepare to see a mix of stunning aquatic life ranging from sharks to sea turtles. 

Stroll Through the Elizabethan Gardens 

The stunning Elizabethan Gardens consists of 10 manicured acres bordering the Roanoke Sound, where plants, flowers, sculptures, and more create a beautiful and peaceful atmosphere. You can check what’s in bloom every month of the year, so you know what to expect when you visit! 

Explore Roanoke Island Festival Park 

Adults and kids will love exploring the beautiful Roanoke Island Festival Park. You’ll find several attractions, including a representative ship from the 1585 English voyage to the island, a constructed American Indian town, and an English settlement site! 

Spend a Day at H2OBX 

If you love to mix in thrills with family time, then you need to head over to H2OBX. This new waterpark has something for everyone, with tons of attractions and activities for families in the Outer Banks.   

View the Wild Horses Near Corolla 

Spotting a wild horse is one of the most popular activities for families in the northern region of the Outer Banks. These herds of beautiful creatures roaming the beaches originated from a deserted Spanish settlement in the 1500s that continued to breed. There are plenty of tour companies that give you an upclose and personal view of these beautiful creatures.  

Experience OBX History 

There are tons of unique historical attractions throughout the Outer Banks. From nautical history to the location of the first flight, there are tons of fun attractions that both adults and kids will love in the area. Below are a few of our favorites! 

Plan Your Outer Banks Family GetawayGulfstream building at Pirate's Cove Resort 

If you want to make the most of your Outer Banks family getaway, Pirate’s Cove Realty has the perfect vacation rental for you! Our collection of condos and homes on Roanoke Island feature several incredible locations, including the town of Manteo, our private gated community (near the marina), and Shallowbag Bay! Roanoke Island is full of shopsrestaurants, activities, history, and more. We love it here, and we know that you will too!   

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