Outer Banks Attractions & Things to Do
Lighthouses, wild horses, world-class fishing, and natural wonders — the top things to do on the OBX.
The most visited OBX attractions are: Cape Hatteras Lighthouse (Buxton), Wright Brothers National Memorial (Kill Devil Hills), wild horse tours in Corolla, Jockey's Ridge State Park (Nags Head), Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge (Rodanthe), North Carolina Aquarium (Roanoke Island), Roanoke Island Festival Park (Manteo), and Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Most are free or low-cost.
Lighthouse
Wildlife
NPS Site
State Park
Wildlife Refuge
AquariumYou can sometimes see wild horses for free by driving to the end of the paved road in Corolla and walking or driving north on the 4WD beach. However, you're not guaranteed to find the herd. Tour operators with experienced guides provide better guaranteed sightings — tours cost $45–$75/person and have excellent reviews. The horses are managed by the Corolla Wild Horse Fund and should never be fed or approached.
Absolutely. Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is one of America's most recognizable landmarks. The climb (268 steps, 198 feet) rewards visitors with panoramic views of both ocean and Pamlico Sound. Climbing tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for children. Open April–Columbus Day. Even off-season, the exterior, beach, and visitor center are accessible and worth the drive.
Free OBX attractions: all beaches (free, publicly accessible); Jockey's Ridge State Park (free admission); Pea Island Wildlife Refuge (free); Fort Raleigh grounds (free, museum has admission); Wright Brothers Memorial grounds (free, vehicle fee for parking); Corolla wild horse beach (free with 4WD); every OBX sunrise over the Atlantic — among the most spectacular on the East Coast.
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