Your Getaway Guide to the Best of the Outer Banks

North Carolina's barrier islands, long known as an ocean adventure destination, boast easy access and laid-back vibes, if you know where to beat the crowds.

Author:
Erin McGrady
Dec 20, 2019 6:45 PM EST

The Outer Banks are no longer out of mind. The chain of barrier islands off North Carolina 's Atlantic coast is definitely on the greater travel radar as an awesome destination for surfers, paddlers, fishermen, and beach bums just wanting to soak up some sun. The reason being? The vast 200-mile chain is all within reasonable driving reach with a distinctly laid-back vibe. If you know where to go, you can get away from the crowds.

Getting There

Accessing the Outer Banks, or OBX for short, is fairly simple. The Norfolk International Airport is just 82 miles to the north and the Raleigh-Durham International Airport is about 190 miles west. If you're regionally located, we recommend an old fashioned road trip.