Things To Do On The Outer Banks For April 24, 2025

The OBX is buzzing as April winds down and May peeks around the corner. Whether you’re a sunrise chaser, a seafood sampler, or a festival fanatic, this is the perfect time to shake off winter and leap into spring’s adventures.

The beaches are wide open, the wildflowers are blooming, and the only thing more refreshing than the ocean breeze is the feeling of finding your own slice of coastal paradise. So, grab your flip-flops and your sense of wonder—there’s no such thing as a dull day on the Outer Banks!

The weather this week has been a classic spring mix—expect highs in the mid-60s to low 70s, with cool nights dipping into the 50s. Occasional showers have kept everything lush and green, while the sun rises just after 6:20 a.m. and sets around 7:45 p.m., giving you plenty of daylight for exploring.

The Atlantic is still brisk, with water temps hovering near 60°F, so wetsuits are recommended for surfers and swimmers, but the sand is perfect for long walks and shell hunting.

Planning Your May 2025 Outer Banks Adventure

If you’re thinking about a May getaway, you’re in for a treat. May is one of the best months to visit the Outer Banks—before the summer crowds arrive, but with plenty of sunshine, blooming gardens, and a packed calendar of local events.

Here’s what you should put on your May OBX itinerary:

• OBX Rod & Custom Festival (May 2–3, Nags Head): Classic car lovers won’t want to miss this family-friendly cruise-in, featuring custom rides, food vendors, and charity fundraisers.

• OBX KidsFest (May 9, Roanoke Island Festival Park): Perfect for families with young children, this event offers crafts, games, music, and more in a beautiful waterfront setting.

• Nags Head Woods 5K & Walk in the Woods (May 10): Celebrate Mother’s Day weekend with a scenic run or walk through one of the area’s most beautiful nature preserves.

• British Cemetery Ceremony (May 10, Ocracoke): A moving tribute to British sailors lost in WWII, blending history with the serenity of Ocracoke Island.

• Hang Gliding Spectacular (May 15–18, Jockey’s Ridge State Park): Watch or join pilots from across the country as they soar above the dunes in this unique, high-flying event.

• Island-Wide Yard Sale (May 17, Ocracoke): Hunt for treasures at this beloved community-wide event.

• OBX Shred Fest (May 17, Nags Head): Enjoy live music, skating, and family fun while supporting local veterans and community initiatives.

• Ocracoke Volunteer Fireman’s Ball (May 24): Cap off the month with live music, great food, and dancing for a good cause.

Beyond the events, May is a prime time for:

• Nature walks and birdwatching: Ospreys, loons, and songbirds return, and the Elizabethan Gardens in Manteo explode with color.

• Lighthouse climbing: Currituck Beach, Bodie Island, and Cape Hatteras lighthouses offer panoramic views and a dose of OBX history.

• Beach bonfires and grilling: Cool evenings are perfect for gathering around a fire or enjoying a seaside cookout.

• Exploring local parks: Don’t miss Jockey’s Ridge State Park, Pea Island Wildlife Refuge, and the Duck Town Park boardwalk for scenic strolls and sunset views.

May also means lower rental rates and quieter beaches, so you can enjoy the best of the OBX without the summer rush. Be sure to book accommodations early for the best selection, and make restaurant reservations if you have your heart set on a particular spot—local seafood is at its peak, with soft shell crab season in full swing.

Whether you’re coming for the festivals, the flowers, or just the fresh salt air, May in the Outer Banks is a memory in the making. Start planning now—your spring adventure awaits!