Now that the weather is cooling off and the crowds are thinning out, visitors to the Outer Banks can experience life like a local. From horseback riding along uncrowded beaches to fishing excursions, local events, and so much more, there’s something for every type of vacationer to enjoy. To help you plan for your off-season vacation, we’ve created our list of the top things to do in the Outer Banks this fall. Check out our recommendations and get ready for an unforgettable visit during this perfect time of year.
Horseback Riding in the Outer Banks
If you’ve ever dreamed of galloping across the sand, the Outer Banks is the perfect place to make that dream a reality. Several horseback riding companies are available and offer a variety of packages and even seasonal discounts for the fall!
Explore maritime forests and the Cape Hatteras National Seashore when you book a guided ride with Equine Adventures. Or, for a fully customizable outing, head south to Hatteras Island Horseback Riding. They offer family, single, group, and even special occasion packages. They can also accommodate any special needs members of your family or group. Whether you’re a skilled rider or it’s your first time, the gentle herds in the Outer Banks make this one of the most popular and memorable activities you can have during your visit.
Beyond horseback riding, you can see the famed wild horses of the Outer Banks when you visit Corolla. Be sure to bring your camera for snapshots of these stunning animals.
Fun on the Water
Visiting the Outer Banks for a fall vacation doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy the water! The temps may be in the 60s and 70s, but thanks to the warm Gulf Stream, the water should still be enjoyable in September and early October. For those looking for a paddling expedition, there are excellent kayaking opportunities in Nags Head and surrounding areas. Popular kayak rental company Kitty Hawk Kites offers unique guided tours that can take you through rivers, along marshland, or even to the Lost Colony and Roanoke Island!
If you’re looking for a more exciting water adventure, a fishing charter is just the ticket. The waters off the North Carolina coast are filled with big-ticket fish like tuna, king mackerel, and blue marlin. Whether you set out with a local Captain or you charter your own boat, fishing in the Outer Banks is one of the most popular water activities you can try.
If you want to skip the boats altogether, you’ll find lots of opportunities for surf fishing, thanks to the sparse crowds, or you can hang with the locals at one of the fishing piers. Then, take your fresh catch home and cook up a true line-to-table feast at your Brindley Beach vacation rental!
Fall Events and Festivals
Immerse yourself in the local culture when you attend one of our many fall events and festivals. From music to food and even Halloween fun for the kiddos, there’s always something going on!
Dance your blues away to the sounds of talented national, regional, and local musicians at the Duck Jazz Festival. Held each year on Columbus Day Weekend, this popular event has brought more than a decade of free family fun to the Outer Banks. Stop by Duck Town Park from 10 AM to 6 PM to hear some of the best music on the East Coast.
Another incredibly popular fall event is the Outer Banks Seafood Festival. Celebrating its ninth year, the festival features delicious bites from local restaurants, educational and interactive demos from local fishermen, boat shows, and more. The festival aims to educate the public on the OBX's rich seafood heritage and raise money to support the local maritime community. Tickets are on sale, and a general admission pass is only $20; kids 12 and under get in free.
If you’re visiting during Halloween, little ones will love the Annual Outer Banks Halloween Parade or touring the Elizabethan Gardens for their Night of 1587 Pumpkins.
These are just a few of the exciting things you’ll experience when you visit this fall. Check out the full Outer Banks calendar of events as you plan your visit and see what unique things will be going on while you're here.
Book Your Fall Getaway to the Outer Banks
Featured Property: MS12, Sounds Amazing
Summer isn’t the only season for beach vacations. With a fall getaway, you can still enjoy all the fun without the hassle of traffic and crowds. That’s why it’s our favorite time of year. As you consider all the benefits of an off-season getaway, don’t forget the most important part: booking your vacation rental directly with a local company!
At Brindley Beach Vacations and Sales, we have the perfect beach rental for your group or family. Whether you only have a few days and need a flex-stay, a place with a private pool, or a pet-friendly home where even Fido can tag along, we’ve got you covered. Browse our complete list of Outer Banks vacation rentals and book your trip directly today!