Things To Do On The Outer Banks For April 14, 2025

Spring is in full swing on the Outer Banks, and there’s no better time to shake off winter and dive into everything our barrier islands have to offer! Whether you’re here for the legendary kite festivals, the start of Bike Week, or just to stroll the beach with a coffee in hand, April brings a fresh energy to the coast. The dunes are alive with color, the restaurants are buzzing back to life, and—best of all—the dolphins are here to play! So grab your sunglasses (and maybe a light jacket), because no matter what the weather brings, adventure is always in the forecast.

Weather, Sunrise, and Water Report

This week, expect classic spring weather: mild days with highs around 59–65°F (15–18°C) and cooler evenings dipping to the mid-50s (12–13°C). The sun rises early, around 6:30 am, and doesn’t set until nearly 7:35 pm, giving you over 13 hours of daylight to explore the shore. Water temperatures are brisk, averaging about 61–65°F—refreshing for a quick dip, but perfect for dolphin watching and beachcombing. Bring layers and enjoy the Outer Banks’ ever-changing skies!

National Dolphin Day – April 14

Today is National Dolphin Day, a celebration of one of the Outer Banks’ most beloved residents: the Atlantic bottlenose dolphin! Dolphins are social, playful, and incredibly intelligent—often spotted leaping and porpoising just offshore. National Dolphin Day is not only about appreciating these joyful creatures, but also raising awareness about their conservation and the importance of protecting their ocean home.

How to Spot Dolphins on the Outer Banks

Dolphins love the shallow waters and inlets around the OBX, and there are several ways to catch a glimpse:

1. Beach Watching: Scan the surf from the shoreline, especially in the morning or late afternoon when dolphins are most active.

2. Pier Viewing: Head to one of the local piers for a higher vantage point.

3. Kayaking & Paddleboarding: Glide quietly through the sounds and you might find yourself paddling alongside a pod.

4. Sailing & Boating: Dolphins often ride the bow waves of boats—keep your camera ready!

5. Dolphin Tours: For the best chance, join a guided dolphin tour where experts know all the local hotspots.

5 Best Places to Spot Dolphins on the Outer Banks

1. Nags Head Beaches- Frequent dolphin sightings close to shore

2. Roanoke Sound- Calm waters, popular with dolphin pods

3. Jockey’s Ridge State Park- Stunning views and dolphin activity offshore

4. Manteo Waterfront- Tours depart here; dolphins love the sound

5. 0Oregon Inlet Fishing Center- Boat tours and great vantage points

Outer Banks Dolphin Tours

Looking for a closer encounter? These local tours offer unforgettable dolphin-watching experiences, often guided by marine experts:

1. Captain Johnny’s Dolphin Tours (Manteo): Family-friendly cruises with a near-guarantee of dolphin sightings.

2. Nags Head Dolphin Watch (Nags Head & Manteo): Biologist-led eco-tours with insights from the Outer Banks Center for Dolphin Research.

3. Paradise Dolphin Cruises (Wanchese): Two-hour excursions with a dolphin-sighting guarantee.

4. Miss Bodie Island Dolphin Watch (Manteo): Educational tours highlighting local history and wildlife.

5. Harbor Star Dolphin Tour (Wanchese): Spacious cruises departing from the marina, perfect for families.

6. Causeway Watersports Private Tours (Nags Head): Private, customizable dolphin and scenic tours for small groups.

7. Outer Banks Adventures (Roanoke Sound): Unique airboat and paddleboard tours for a different perspective.

Celebrate National Dolphin Day by heading out to the water, learning about these amazing mammals, and sharing your sightings with #NationalDolphinDay! Whether you spot a pod from the beach or up close on a tour, the Outer Banks is the place to be for dolphin magic this spring