Planning a trip to the Outer Banks can be expensive. Between securing a vacation rental, planning excursions, and dining, your costs can add up quickly. But what if we told you there’s a world of fun and free things to do in the OBX that won’t cost you a dime?! Between exciting beach days and chances to explore unique historic sites along the North Carolina coast, you can fill an entire vacation itinerary for next to nothing.
In this month’s blog, we’ll cover some of the best free activities in the Outer Banks, plus answers to frequently asked questions to help you plan your budget-friendly getaway. Let’s dive in!
Fun and Free Things to Do in the OBX
Beachcombing, Wildlife Spotting, and Coastal Adventures
It’s no surprise the first thing on our list of free things to do in the OBX is going to the beach. After all, it’s probably the main reason you booked this trip! Our wide, expansive beaches and crashing waves are what coastal dreams are made of. Whether you’re building sandcastles, searching for shells, surfing, fishing, or just relaxing, there are limitless ways to enjoy a free beach day. Plus, with plenty of easy beach access points across the area or just right outside the door of your Brindley Beach vacation rental, you’re never very far away from the shore.
Here are our favorite free beach-day activities:
- Hunt for unique shells in Nags Head, Kitty Hawk, and Corolla
- Look out for wild horses in Corolla
- Visit Jockey’s Ridge State Park for sandboarding, sunset views, and kite flying on the tallest living sand dunes on the Atlantic Coast.
- Hike the Nags Head Woods Preserve
Watersports and Fishing
Following the beach theme, let’s get out on (and in) the water with some free aquatic activities!
Free Things to Do in the OBX on the Water:
- Paddleboarding and kayaking in the Currituck Sound. Pro Tip: Save money by seeing if your vacation rental comes with any complimentary gear!
- Fishing at the free Bonner Bridge Pier: Cast a line for redfish, flounder, tuna, king mackerel, and more!
- Sound-side crabbing at Duck Town Park
Make sure you’re ready for your fishing excursions by getting your North Carolina Fishing License and checking out our complete Outer Banks fishing guide!
Historic Landmarks and Local Culture
After a few days, you may want to trade the sun and sand for some free dry-land activities. If so, you’re in luck! The Outer Banks has several historic landmarks to check out. These are great additions if you’re traveling with homeschoolers or if you’re just looking to add some educational outings to your stay.
Free Educational To-Dos:
- Learn about the first flight at the Wright Brothers Memorial. From the visitor’s center to the expansive grounds, there’s tons to see!
- Look for wildlife along the Duck Boardwalk
- Attend free programs at the Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education
- Explore local art galleries
- Visit Roanoke Island Festival Park (Free Outdoor Areas) and learn about early coastal settlers
Outdoor Relaxation and Stargazing
You'll spend a lot of time outside — take a moment to just appreciate your surroundings.
Free Relaxing Things to Do Outside:
- Light up a beach bonfire in Nags Head (where permitted)
- When the sun sets, enjoy a starlit sky free from light pollution on Coquina Beach
- Start the day with sunrise yoga on the beach
- Watch the sunset over the sound
OBX Scavenger Hunt Challenge
Get the family involved in a free scavenger hunt challenge to see what you can spot throughout the Outer Banks! Be sure to upload and tag your photos with #BrindleyBeachTreasureHunt as you explore.
Can You Find These?
- Spot a ghost crab
- Collect sea glass
- Take a selfie at Jockey’s Ridge
- Find a wild mustang
FAQs: Free Things to Do in the OBX
Q. Where can I find the best seashells in the Outer Banks?
A. Nags Head, Kitty Hawk, and Corolla are top spots for beachcombing in the Northern Outer Banks areas.
Q. What are the top free historical sites in the Outer Banks?
A. The Wright Brothers Museum grounds, Roanoke Island Festival Park’s outdoor areas, and the Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education are all free to visit!
Q. What’s the best place to watch the sunset in the Outer Banks?
A. You can catch an amazing OBX sunset from atop the dunes at Jockey’s Ridge State Park or get lovely water views as you stroll the sound-side boardwalk in Duck.
Q. Can I see the wild horses in Corolla for free?
A. Yes! You can often spot them near the beach and dunes. Just remember to stay at least 50 feet away.
Stay with Brindley Beach and Experience OBX’s Best Free Activities
Featured Property: VOH1248, Sunset Cottage
There’s no shortage of incredible free things to do in the OBX. Whether you’re exploring historic areas, spotting wildlife, or just relaxing on the beach, there’s something everyone will love!
As you plan your budget-friendly trip, remember the most important factor in keeping costs low: booking a vacation rental directly with a property manager instead of with a third party.
When you book directly with Brindley Beach, you not only have access to our full catalog of OBX vacation rentals, but you also avoid third-party fees, which can cost you thousands of extra dollars.
Whether you’re looking for an oceanfront home or a pet-friendly property, we’ve got an Outer Banks vacation rental that’s right for you. Browse our inventory and secure your trip today with Brindley Beach Vacations and Sales. We can’t wait to see you!