Why Visit the Outer Banks for Spring Break?
It's never too early to start thinking about that next stretch of time when we'll be ready to get away: Spring Break! After the next few months of toiling over work and pushing through the daily grind it's going to be time to get those toes in the sand and break away from the stress of daily life. When looking for the perfect spot to spend that week when schools are closed and you've got a little extra vacation time to spend, there are some non-negotiables. Spring Break locales have to be warm, affordable, and most of all, fun.
The Outer Banks is the perfect place to visit during spring break for a number of reasons, but above all else, it checks all the boxes of what you’d want out of a beach vacation. From the gorgeous weather to the amazing attractions, the Outer Banks has a lot to offer locals and tourists alike during their much-needed vacation. Come prepared to enjoy lots of sunshine, delicious food, friendly faces, and a spectacular start to the summer season in one of the most beautiful places in the world. Keep reading for some tips and tricks, as well as the top reasons why you should spend your Spring Break on the Outer Banks! We're booking now for Spring Break vacations, so book today and don't let the perfect vacation rental home getaway.
1. OBX Spring Break Weather
During March and April, the average daily temperature is 65°F while the average temperature at nighttime is 50°F. So, during the day, you can enjoy the same attractions that are available in the summer without having to worry about the heat. However, if you're hoping to spend time at the beach and maybe even in the water, we sometimes still can get those relatively warm days with a high of 80 degrees in March and April. This makes it the perfect time to come exploring, maybe trying out kitesurfing, kiteboarding, or skimboarding while the beaches are a little less crowded. It's a great time of year to try beachcombing, ghost crabbing, and stargazing while the weather is comfortable but ensures that those cold winter days are a thing of the past! The weather is also great for checking out some of our awesome shopping destinations to find the perfect souvenir to bring back home. And don't forget putt-putt on a warm, sunny day. No trip to the beach is complete without it.
2. Family-Friendly Environment
Unlike some of the more well-known Spring Break destinations like Miami or Myrtle Beach, the Outer Banks is known for its family-friendly environment, making it a wonderful place to take the kids year round. Since they'll be out of school anyway, Spring Break is a fantastic time to get out of the house and enjoy some time reconnecting and exploring this gorgeous barrier island paradise together. Many of our homes have dedicated spaces for remote working, so there's no good excuse not to come visit during Spring Break this year! And if your family homeschools or practices any type of blended learning, the Outer Banks is a great place to bring your homeschoolers where they can enjoy hands-on learning in a new environment. In 2011, Seaside Vacations was awarded the official "Seal of Approval" for homeschooling families from Homeschool.com, so you'll know that you and your entire family is in good hands when you choose to spend your Spring Break with us! Check out our Top 7 Reasons to Homeschool from an Outer Banks Vacation Rental and our Homeschool Outer Banks Trip Planner for even more ideas.
3. Fun Seasonal Events
Even though the Outer Banks is typically known as a summer destination, there are endless exciting events to enjoy during the Spring that keep people coming back year after year. In March, head to the Outer Banks Brewing Station for the St. Patrick's Day Weekend Beer Mile, and be sure to stop the following weekend for the famous Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade in Nags Head, featuring lots of local businesses, charities, clubs, and groups as we celebrate the fun of spring. The first weekend in April is a great time to be on the Outer Banks so that you can enjoy the OBX Taste of the Beach where you'll have the chance to sample some of the best seafood on the Outer Banks up and down the beach!
April means the Fly Into Spring Kite Festival at Jockey's Ridge State Park and the Easter Eggstravangza at Kitty Hawk Kites! Usher in an unforgettable start to the spring and summer seasons by celebrating the warmer temperatures and the changing seasons at the beach! If athletics are more your style, register for the Ocracoke Island Scallywag 5K/10K & Blackbeard's Half Marathon and push yourself to the limit. On April 12th, be sure to make your way to Manteo for the Annual Lost Colony Wine & Culinary Festival where you can enjoy a grand tasting of some of the most delicious drinks in the area on the grounds of the Lost Colony! This is also a great time to check out some of the most delicious pastries you'll find on the beach or complete the ultimate Outer Banks bucket list! You'll never run out of fun and exciting things to do during Spring Break on the Outer Banks!
4. Explore the History without the Crowds
There are a lot of amazing things to do on the Outer Banks and the spring is honestly one of the best times to visit and explore. With much less foot traffic than you'll find in the summer, visiting during the spring promises less lines and traffic while you get to enjoy the best of the Outer Banks as things start opening back up again after the off season. Visit the NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island and enjoy learning about the local flora and fauna that make the Outer Banks special. Take advantage of the temperate weather with a tour of the Wright Brothers National Memorial and be sure to drive down to the Roanoke Island Festival Park and the Graveyard of the Altantic Museum for a little bit of extra fun as you learn more about this unique region that has been growing and evolving since the very first English landing. This is also a wonderful time to stray from the beaten path and check out some of the more unique things to do on the Outer Banks. Check out the Wright Brothers Garage Monument and visit the British Cemeteries located on Ocracoke and Hatteras Island.These out of the way adventures promise a rewarding experience that you won't be able to find anywhere else.
5. Fishing and Crabbing Season Takes Off
If you can't get enough of fishing off the Outer Banks with Wicked Tuna: Outer Banks, this Spring is an amazing time to try your own hand at fishing or crabbing at the Outer Banks! As the water starts getting warmer, large fish and crabs start making their way back to the waters offf the coast. April is a great time to start looking at offshore fishing opportunities where you'll be able to carach Yellowfin Tuna, Gaffer Dolphin, Red Drum, Bluefish, and Trout. If you and your family are planning an earlier Spring Break, February and March are the perfect time to catch some Bluefin Tuna. This is a great time of year to consider booking and offshore fishing charter, as well! So take a look at our unbelievable Club Seaside offerings for Tours & Fishing Charters and see where the water takes you!
If staying shore-side is more your style, grab your gear and head to one of the Piers up and down the Outer Banks for a fun experience catching fish from the comfort of a cozy pier with food, drinks, and restrooms. The Spring also means that it's time to catch and eat some delicious crabs from the sound or the ocean. Be sure to check out our guide to Crabbing on the Outer Banks for some tips and ideas of how you can catch your own fresh, local seafood for a Spring Break you'll never forget.
6. Enjoy the Reopening of Local Dining
Spring is an amazing time to take advantage of fewer crowds and find your new favorite on the Outer Banks' food scene as many restaurants start opening for the season! Be the first to sample the fresh, local flavors of the beach as updated menus and fresh seafood return to the menu as guests return to the beach in March and April! Here are some of our recommendations for the best places to eat on the Outer Banks during Spring Break!
- The Blue Point (Duck) - Enjoy waterfront dining with unique Southern seafood dishes, a farm-to-table experience, and delicious craft cocktails and drinks!
- The Black Pelican (Kitty Hawk) - The Black Pelican is an absolute staple of the Outer Banks! Located in a historic building with incredible ocean views, be sure to try their artisan pizzas and steamed shrimp!
- Awful Arthur's Oyster Bar (Kill Devil Hills) - This is one of the most famous oyster bars on the beach! Don't miss out on their cold beer and raw bar.
- Outer Banks Brewing Station (Kill Devil Hills) - This amazing brewery boasts live music, great local beer, and delicious meals and creative tapas offerings throughout the week.
- The Saltbox Cafe (Kill Devil Hills) - This hidden gam in Colington is perfect for crab cakes and pan-seared seafood. Reservations go FAST to book now and secure your spot.
- Blue Moon Beach Grill (Nags Head) - This bistro is an incredible spot for Southern Caribbean fusion with some OBX flair.
- Miller's Waterfront Restaurant (Nags Head) - Take in those amazing sunset views alongside some delicious fresh seafood and creative cocktails.
- Cafe Pamlico (Hatteras Island) - Cafe Pamlico is an upscale, romantic spot for fine dining with an oceanfront view.
- Buxton Munch (Hatteras Island) - Stop by this local's favorite for some of the best fish tacos you'll ever eat!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the Outer Banks busy during Spring Break?
While the summer is usually the busiest time of year on the Outer Banks, there are many families that choose to vacation on the Outer Banks during spring break. There are more than a hundred miles of open beach on the Outer Banks, meaning there's plenty of space to spread out, even if more people are starting to visit. Spring break is also when a lot of the local restaurants and activities start opening back up, so you can readily enjoy all the perks of an Outer Banks vacation without the summer crowds.
What is the weather like during Spring Break on the Outer Banks?
Spring is usually pretty mild on the Outer Banks, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-70s. Storms and rain can be a little unpredictable, though, so don't forget your raincoat or an umbrella! And never fear, there are still so many fun ways to enjoy the Outer Banks even when it's raining.
What can I do on the Outer Banks during Spring Break?
Spring break is the time when things on the Outer Banks really start opening back up for visitors and there are plenty of things to do:
- Go to the Beach
- Go Shopping
- Go Birdwatching
- Play Putt Putt
- Visit the North Carolina Aquarium
- Visit the Wright Brothers Memorial
- See a Lighthouse
- RELAX!!!
Are stores and restaurants open on the Outer Banks during Spring Break?
Yes! Almost every restaurant will be open by Spring Break, with many of them starting to open back up at the end of Februrary. Most shops are starting to stay open year-round and if they aren't, there's a good chance they're operational by Spring Break. There may be limited hours in some cases, so it's important to call ahead before going.
Just in case, here's a list of restaurants that are open year-round on the Outer Banks!
Is it warm enough to swim in the ocean on the Outer Banks during Spring Break?
If you're willing to get a little chilly, then yes! The water is usually in the 50°F to 60°F range in March and April, making it a little bit too cold for most swimmers - but not all! You could consider a wet suit, or book a vacation rental with a heated pool and/or hot tub! Seaside Vacations pools open by April 12 this year so plan ahead if you think you may want to request pool heat!
*Please note: Pool heat is not available at all properties. Please inquire before booking and request pool heat at least one week in advance of check-in.
Are there family-friendly things to do on the Outer Banks during Spring Break?
Yes! The Outer Banks is great for kids and families, especially during Spring Break. Take the kids to play putt-putt, take a Corolla Wild Horse Tour, visit the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island, or spend some time building sandcastles on the beach.
What should I pack for an Outer Banks vacation during Spring Break?
Layers, layers, layers! Plan for changing weather and plenty of outdoor adventures. Pack t-shirts, shorts, sweatshirts, and a light jacket or two as well as beach gear like sunscreen, sunglasses, and towels.. And don't forget a raincoat and comfortable shoes for walking and exploring.
How do I book an Outer Banks vacation rental for Spring Break?
Book early to get the best options and ensure you get all the amenities you want! Browse our oceanfront, pet-friendly, or partial-stay Outer Banks vacation rentals!
Book Your Outer Banks Spring Break Rental Today
When you come to OBX for spring break, you’ll need to find the perfect place to relax and lay your head down at night. There are plenty of great short-term or temporary rentals available for great rates, along with seasonal specials that will make your stay that much more sweet. It's not to early to start looking for the perfect place to spend your spring break with your family group.
Get started early by calling one of our live, in-house Outer Banks Vacation Rental Specialists at (866) 884-0267 or check out our available rentals to book your next Outer Banks vacation today! Let us help you get ready for an unforgettable spring break vacation and spend these next few moths looking forward to an amazing Outer Banks vacation that’s sure to help you stress less, move more, and enjoy the best of what the Outer Banks has to offer.
Don’t let the chance to stay in your dream vacation home getaway.
Book today.
We’ll see you at the beach!
About the Author: Lauren is an Outer Banks local, mom, history professor, and travel enthusiast. When she isn’t writing for the Seaside Vacations Travel Blog, Lauren can usually be found with her nose in a book or cuddling with her cats.
