5-Day Family Adventure & Exploration Itinerary in the Outer Banks, NC

Day 1: Dunes & History

Nags Head, NC

9:00AM

Jockey's Ridge State Park

Explore the tallest living sand dunes on the East Coast where the family can hike, climb, and try kite flying in open spaces.
USD0, 2h30m

11:45AM

Wright Brothers National Memorial

Discover where the first controlled powered flight took place with interactive exhibits and walking trails.
USD10 adults, USD5 kids, 2h

2:00PM

Nags Head Woods Preserve

Take a family-friendly nature walk through coastal forest and salt marsh habitats with diverse local wildlife.
USD0, 1h30m

4:00PM

Visit Jennette's Pier

Explore one of the longest piers in the world with aquariums and ocean views, perfect for learning about marine life.
USD3 adults, USD1 kids, 1h30m
View Hotels

Day 2: Lighthouse & Wildlife

Hatteras Island, NC

9:00AM

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

Climb the tallest lighthouse in the US and enjoy panoramic views of the island, ocean, and sound.
USD12 adults, USD7 kids, 2h

11:30AM

Bodie Island Lighthouse & Visitor Center

Learn about Outer Banks maritime history and wildlife at this historic lighthouse area with nature trails.
USD0, 1h30m

1:30PM

Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge

Enjoy birdwatching and wildlife spotting on walking trails and observation decks.
USD0, 2h

4:00PM

Kitty Hawk Woods Coastal Reserve

Go on a short family hike through maritime forest and dynamic sand dune ecosystems.
USD0, 1h30m
View Hotels

Day 3: Island Exploration

Ocracoke Island, NC

9:00AM

Ferry to Ocracoke Island

Take the scenic ferry ride to Ocracoke and enjoy spotting ocean wildlife en route.
USD22 car, USD1 per adult, 1h

10:30AM

Ocracoke Lighthouse

Visit one of the oldest operating lighthouses in the country and explore the charming village surrounding it.
USD0, 1h

11:45AM

Silver Lake Harbor

Watch boats come and go from this picturesque harbor with walking paths and picnic spots.
USD0, 1h

1:00PM

Ocracoke Pony Pens

See the famous wild horses that roam the island in their fenced pony pens—a unique Outer Banks experience.
USD0, 1h

2:30PM

Ocracoke Lighthouse Beach

Spend the afternoon swimming and collecting shells on this family-friendly beach next to the lighthouse.
USD0, 3h
View Hotels

Day 4: History & Nature

Roanoke Island, NC

9:00AM

Roanoke Island Festival Park

Experience interactive, living history exhibits about the first English settlers and Native American heritage.
USD10 adults, USD5 kids, 2h

11:30AM

Elizabethan Gardens

Explore this stunning garden featuring wildflowers, fountains, and sculptures, perfect for a peaceful family walk.
USD9 adults, USD4 kids, 1h30m

1:15PM

North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island

Discover local marine life with touch tanks and interactive displays great for kids of all ages.
USD13 adults, USD8 kids, 2h

3:45PM

Fort Raleigh National Historic Site

Visit the site of the Lost Colony with ranger programs, a visitor center, and outdoor trails.
USD0, 1h30m
View Hotels

Day 5: Adventure Outdoors

Kitty Hawk, NC

9:00AM

Kitty Hawk Woods Coastal Reserve

Enjoy a family hike through forests, wetlands, and dunes with well-marked trails to explore.
USD0, 2h

11:30AM

Currituck Beach Lighthouse

Climb this striking red-and-white striped lighthouse for sweeping views of the northern Outer Banks.
USD8 adults, USD5 kids, 1h30m

1:00PM

Explore Historic Corolla Village

Walk through this historic village to see charming architecture, visit shops, and maybe spot wild horses nearby.
USD0, 1h30m

2:45PM

Whalehead Club & Corolla Beaches

Tour the restored 1920s mansion and spend the afternoon on nearby pristine beaches perfect for family play and relaxation.
USD7 adults, USD4 kids, 3h
View Hotels