Outer Banks, North Carolina

Now that summer is here we couldn't resist taking a road trip to visit the Outer Banks.  I have always heard about the beautiful beaches and all the fun things to do there it was time to take advantage.

Places to Eat

Kill Devil Grill
Great dinner spot for fresh seafood.  They are known for their daily specials and they sell out fast so get their early.  There may be a wait but if you have a small party look for seating in the bar.
2008 S Virginia Dare Trail, MP 9.75, Kill Devil Hills

Sam & Omie's
All the locals I spoke to recommended this restaurant for breakfast.  The place is very casual and the service was great.  Breakfast was very similar to a diner and maybe my expectations were too high after hearing the rave reviews.
Mile Post 16.5, Beach Rd, Nags Head

Duck Donuts
I was looking forward to checking out this made to order donut joint.  Don't let the strip mall location fool you.  You custom order your donut and they come piping hot and delicious.
710 S. Croatan Highway, Kill Devil Hills

Things to Do

The Beach
There are miles of beautiful beaches.  The beaches are free, dog friendly, and allow driving some some of the beaches.  Each beach has their dog/leash/season rules so be sure to check before you go.
Pets on the Beach Policy

Wright Brothers National Memorial
If you only have time to see one thing while you are here this is it!  The Visitor's Center has reproductions of the gliders the Wright Brothers used and you can visit the National Monument on the hill where they first took flight.  The Monument is a little hike from the Visitor's Center and you can walk up to it or drive.  This area is very windy and not the day to wear a sundress if you are coming from the beach.  Dogs are allowed but must be on a leash and they can't go inside any of the buildings.   ($4/Age 16 and over)
Wright Brothers National Memorial
1000 North Croatan Highway, Kill Devil Hills 

Reproduction gliders at the Visitor's Center

Wright Brothers National Monument

Outdoor Activities
The Outer Banks offers fishing tours, hang gliding school, horseback riding, kayaking, and bicycle rentals. http://www.outerbanks.org/

Kid Friendly
If traveling with children there is a movie theater, mini golf, laser tag.

Places to Stay

Rentals
The majority of people visiting use vacation rentals and there are many websites where you can book.
Outer Banks Vacation Rentals

Hotels
The area is not overly developed and commercialized but you can still find some hotels.  We didn't travel with enough notice for a rental and ended up staying at The Outer Banks Inn.  It was a quick 5 minute walk to the beach.
*If wanting to stay money plan your trip with a vacation rental in advance.  The hotels are few so they tend to cost more than a rental on the beach.