Fall On The Outer Banks

Summer gets much of the attention on the Outer Banks, but fall has plenty going for it too. The weather cools down, the crowds thin out, and there’s still plenty to do. Plus, there’s something pretty nice about having the beach feel a little more like your own. We've compiled a list of a few of our favorite things about fall on the Outer Banks. We think you will like them too! There's always a great reason to visit the Outer Banks. 

If you love walking on the beach but don’t love the summer heat, fall is a great time to get out there. The temperatures are cooler, the beaches are quieter, and you can enjoy a long walk listening to the waves and looking for treasures.

There are also plenty of trails to explore away from the beach. Take a walk through Nags Head Woods or explore the trails at Jockey's Ridge State Park. Fall is a great time to slow down and enjoy the quieter side of the OBX. Check out our guide to Outer Banks nature trails for more places to explore.

Fall is a great time to explore the Outer Banks' lighthouses and historic sites. Climb the Currituck Beach Lighthouse, visit the Bodie Island Lighthouse, or head to Roanoke Island to explore the area's history. You can also visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial and learn about The First Flight. With cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, it's an easy way to spend a fall day exploring the Outer Banks.

Fall is a favorite around here for four-legged beachgoers too. Cooler temperatures make for pleasant walks, the sand is not as hot, and there are fewer people on the beach. Depending on where you're staying, you may also have more flexibility with beach leash rules. And when your pup needs a break from the beach, the Outer Banks has several dog parks where they can stretch their legs, sniff around and make some new friends. So go ahead and bring the dog. They deserve a beach trip, too! Looking for a dog-friendly rental? Find it here.

Fall brings some of the Outer Banks’ favorite annual events, including the Outer Banks Seafood Festival. It's a great way to spend the day sampling local seafood, listening to live music and enjoying one of the best things about being on the coast.

Music fans can also check out the Duck Jazz Festival, a free event held at Duck Town Park, and the Bluegrass Festival at Roanoke Island Festival Park. With the water all around, fantastic food and plenty of live music, it's a hard place to beat for a fall weekend.

The Outer Banks Parade of Homes is also worth adding to your fall plans. It's a fun way to see some of the area's newest coastal designs, unique features and creative renovations while getting out and exploring different parts of the OBX.

Fall storms can mean bigger waves making this one of the best times of year for surfing on the Outer Banks. If you surf, you already know. If you don't, grab a beach chair and watch from the shore. There's usually plenty of action when the waves are good.

Fall is a great time to go fishing on the Outer Banks. As fish move along the coast with the changing seasons, anglers have plenty of opportunities to head out on the water or cast a line from the beach.

Red Drum are a popular fall catch, and you'll often see anglers out along the shoreline hoping to land one. Whether you're an experienced fisherman or just want to give it a try, fall is a great time to wet a line.

Fall skies can be especially colorful, and cooler evenings make it a great time to enjoy the beach. Grab some snacks and a blanket for a sunset picnic, or get a beach bonfire going and break out the marshmallows. Beach fires are allowed in some areas of the Outer Banks with a permit, while other beaches don't allow them, so be sure to check local rules before you go. Either way, a sunset, some good food and a little time on the beach make for a pretty great fall evening.

Cooler days, quieter beaches, fall festivals and plenty of time outdoors make autumn a pretty great time to visit the Outer Banks. Southern Shores Realty offers a wide range of options to suit your needs, from short stays and last-minute bookings to extended vacations. Find your Outer Banks vacation rental and start planning your fall getaway.