Things To Do On The Outer Banks For April 16, 2025

Spring is in full swing on the Outer Banks, and there’s no better place to shake off winter and dive into a week packed with color, kites, and coastal adventure! Whether you’re beachcombing for treasures, watching kites soar over the dunes, or wandering through blooming gardens, the OBX is buzzing with energy. From foodie festivals to Easter egg hunts, and a calendar blooming with special events, there’s something for every local and visitor to enjoy—rain or shine, the Outer Banks always delivers a good time!

Weather, Sunrise, and Water Report

This week, expect classic OBX spring weather: mild and breezy with plenty of sunshine and the occasional passing cloud. Daytime highs hover around 66°F (19°C), with lows dipping to the mid-50s, making it perfect for outdoor adventures or a cozy stroll along the shore. Sunrise on April 16 arrives at 6:28 a.m., painting the sky in soft pastels, and sunset wraps up the day at 7:36 p.m.—plenty of daylight for exploring. Water temperatures are still brisk, averaging about 63°F, so wading and beach walks are ideal, but you might want to save your swim for later in the season unless you’re feeling brave.

Celebrate National Orchid Day – April 16

Today is National Orchid Day, a celebration of one of the world’s most diverse and enchanting families of flowers! With over 21,000 species, orchids are renowned for their beauty, fragrance, and vibrant colors. This day is about cherishing the natural wonders around us and honoring loved ones through the timeless elegance of orchids. Why not mark the occasion by visiting a local garden, sipping orchid tea, or snapping a few photos of these stunning blooms to share with friends and family?

Explore the Elizabethan Gardens

Spring is a magical time at the Elizabethan Gardens, nestled within the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site. Inspired by the grandeur of Queen Elizabeth I’s era, these gardens are a living memorial to the lost colonists and a feast for the senses with their ever-changing tapestry of blooms. April brings a riot of color—perfect for a peaceful stroll, family photos, or simply soaking in the history and horticultural beauty. Don’t miss their special events, like the annual Eastertide in the Gardens, which transforms the grounds into a wonderland of springtime fun.

Butterfly Release at the Elizabethan Gardens – Coming in May

Looking ahead, the Elizabethan Gardens’ Butterfly House Release is a must-see event for all ages. Throughout May (and into the summer), guests can witness butterflies take their first flight in a magical, up-close experience. These sessions, held Tuesdays and Thursdays, include a keepsake Butterfly Keeper certificate and expert tips on attracting butterflies to your own garden. Advance ticket purchase is highly recommended, as spots are limited to keep the experience intimate and memorable.

Don’t Miss This Week:

1. Fly Into Spring Kite Festival: April 18–19 at Jockey’s Ridge State Park. Marvel at massive show kites, join in on kite-making workshops, and snap photos against the dramatic backdrop of the tallest sand dunes on the East Coast.

2. Eastertide in the Gardens: April 19 at the Elizabethan Gardens. Celebrate Easter surrounded by spring blooms, egg hunts, and family-friendly activities.

3. Outer Banks Bike Week: April 19–27. Motorcycle enthusiasts take to the scenic highways for rides, live music, and coastal camaraderie.

5. Earth Day Celebrations: April 21–22. Join beach cleanups and eco-friendly activities to help keep the OBX beautiful