Reasons to visit the Outer Banks in the off season

The Outer Banks is visited by millions of tourists during the prime summer months from May – September. It is the busiest time of year for our beaches; roads are congested, businesses are packed and accommodation prices are steep. Some people came to love the Outer Banks because of the isolation and seclusion our island offers. And although I understand why the summer months are the most popular due to the perfect weather, warm water and sunny skies, I want it to be known that the off-season may be the better time to visit if you’re looking to escape the “everyday grind” and relax on a beach of your own.


In this article I will provide reasons why the off- season it is a great time of year to visit the Outer Banks of North Carolina!

Privacy & Seclusion. As I stated earlier, one main reason why I (and many others) have come to love the Outer Banks is because of the isolation you feel once entering the island. You are far away enough to let all your worries go, yet close enough to drive! The beaches are practically empty so if you enjoy shelling or hunting for sea glass then you’ll have better luck in the off season. If you are looking to get away from it all and enjoy a relaxing week vacation or long weekend getaway without bumping into other vacationers, then try the Outer Banks in the off season (October – April).

The weather is still nice. Some of the most beautiful days of the year are in October & November, March & April. The sunrise & sunsets are phenomenal. If you have ever seen stunning Outer Banks photography, you should know that those photos were most likely taken from October – April. Speaking of photography, if photography is a hobby of yours and you’re looking to add to your portfolio – you must take a trip here in the off season!

Affordability. Accommodation prices drop dramatically in the off season. An Oceanfront, 9 bedroom home in Corolla which rents for $11,795 in the summer, drops to only $2495 in the off season. An oceanfront, 4 bedroom home in Southern Shores which rents for $5075 in the summer, drops to only $995 in the off season! You can rent a private home with a hot tub in the off season for as low as $500/week. Click here for all off season vacation rentals.

Businesses are OPEN. It used to be that after Labor Day many businesses close their doors for the season. Now more businesses are staying open year round to serve to the off season travelers and year round residents.

Surf’s up. Many people associate the Outer Banks as the surfing Mecca of the Eastern US. The best surf on the Outer Banks usually happens in the off season. In addition to traditional surfing, kite boarding has become extremely popular in our area in the off season because of the consistent wind and sound waters. If you’re an adventure seeker looking for a new hobby, visit the Outer Banks and take up surfing or kite boarding!

Fishing. Outer Banks off season fishing is extremely popular. The fish migrate south for the winter passing through the Gulf Stream just off our coast thus allowing for great fishing of all sorts. The off season also offers a variety of fishing tournaments.

Off season events. The Outer Banks hosts many events in the off season such as the Outer Banks Marathon in November which has over 5000 participants each year. Other events include Bike Fest (October) & Bike Week (April), Christmas Parades, Fishing & Golf Tournaments, OBX Taste of the Beach (March), Kelly’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade (March) and so much more.

As you can see, the Outer Banks in the off season has a lot to offer. It may not be for everyone, but for those of you who enjoy isolated beaches, affordable accommodations, stunning scenery, fishing, surfing, kite boarding or other events, you’ll be delightfully surprised to know that we have it all – right here on the Outer Banks this off-season!

Call us today at 800.635.1559 to book your off season Outer Banks Vacation or visit http://www.beachrealtync.com/.