Things To Do On The Outer Banks For April 20, 2025

Welcome to your Outer Banks newsletter April 20, 2025

Spring is in full swing on the Outer Banks, and there’s no better time to let your spirits soar—literally! Whether you’re a beachcomber, a festival lover, or someone who just likes to watch the clouds roll by, this week is packed with reasons to get outside and enjoy the legendary breezes that make our barrier islands famous. The dunes are calling, the sky is wide open, and the only thing missing is your kite dancing overhead. So grab your sunglasses, rally your crew, and get ready for a week where the only thing brighter than the sunshine is the colorful parade of kites above the sand!

The weather this past week delivered classic OBX spring: mild, breezy, and perfect for outdoor adventures. Daytime highs hovered in the upper 60s to mid-70s °F (around 21–24°C), with cool, refreshing evenings dipping into the low 50s °F (about 11–13°C). Light showers were possible but rare, and the winds—ranging from 6 to 17 mph—were ideal for kite flying. Sunrise on April 20 arrived at 6:23 AM, with sunset at 7:39 PM, offering over 14 hours of daylight to enjoy the great outdoors. The ocean temperature was a brisk 60°F, so while swimming was for the bold, the water’s edge was perfect for flying kites and beach walks. Water clarity was good, especially on days with gentle southeast or east winds.

Go Fly a Kite Day: Celebrate on the OBX

April is National Kite Month, and the Outer Banks is the ultimate place to celebrate Go Fly a Kite Day! This past weekend, the sky over Jockey’s Ridge State Park was a kaleidoscope of color during the annual Fly Into Spring Kite Festival, with massive 30-to-100-foot kites soaring above the dunes and families of all ages joining in the fun. Whether you’re a seasoned kite pilot or a first-timer, the Outer Banks’ steady winds and wide-open spaces make it easy to get your kite airborne and keep it there.

Best Places to Fly Your Kite

1. Jockey’s Ridge State Park (Nags Head): The largest natural sand dunes on the East Coast offer unobstructed winds and breathtaking views—this is the #1 kite-flying spot on the OBX. The dunes are free from trees and buildings, so bring sunscreen, water, and shoes for the sand.

2. Wright Brothers National Memorial (Kill Devil Hills): Fly your kite where the Wright brothers made aviation history. The open grounds and steady breezes are perfect for all kinds of kites, and the monument adds a historic backdrop.

3. The Whalehead Club (Corolla): A sprawling grassy field on the Currituck Sound, ideal for families and sunset kite sessions. The winds here are often perfect, especially in spring, and the scenery is unbeatable.

4. The Beach: Any wide stretch of OBX shoreline can become your personal runway. Just be mindful of crowds and keep an eye out for beachgoers—early mornings or late afternoons are best for open space and smooth winds.

Where to Buy the Perfect Kite

1. Kitty Hawk Kites: With locations from Corolla to Ocracoke, Kitty Hawk Kites is the largest kite retailer on the Outer Banks, offering everything from beginner single-line kites to advanced stunt kites. Their flagship store is right across from Jockey’s Ridge State Park, so you can pick up a kite and be flying within minutes. Knowledgeable staff can help you choose the right kite for your skill level and the day’s wind conditions.

2. Flying Smiles Kites (Corolla): Another top spot for kite enthusiasts, Flying Smiles offers a wide selection and expert advice, especially for those looking to try something new or upgrade to a stunt or quad-line kite.

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3. Other OBX Toy & Beach Shops: Many local beach shops stock kites, wind spinners, and accessories—just look for the bright displays and ask for local recommendations.

So whether you’re here for the festivals, the history, or just to watch your kite soar against the Carolina blue, the Outer Banks is the place to let your imagination (and your kite) take flight. Happy flying!