Visiting the Outer Banks in April 2025

April in the Outer Banks (OBX) is a time of renewal—when the barrier islands come alive with mild weather, blooming landscapes, and an exciting lineup of events. Whether you're visiting for Easter celebrations, spring festivals, outdoor adventures, or simply to enjoy the pristine beaches before the summer crowds arrive, April is an ideal month to explore everything OBX has to offer.

Weather in April: What to Expect

April brings comfortable temperatures, perfect for both outdoor excursions and laid-back beach days:

• Average High: 69°F (21°C)

• Average Low: 52°F (11°C)

• Ocean Temperature: ~60°F (15°C) — brisk but swimmable for the adventurous.

• Rainfall: Light showers are possible but infrequent.

Expect cool mornings and evenings, making layers a must. A light jacket is recommended for nighttime strolls along the beach or dining outdoors.

Key Events & Festivals in April

April is a vibrant month on the Outer Banks, packed with culinary festivals, outdoor adventures, and Easter celebrations. Here are the top events you won’t want to miss:

OBX Taste of the Beach (April 4–6, 2025)

This multi-day food festival is a must for foodies. Experience wine tastings, brewery tours, cooking classes, and multi-course menus crafted by OBX's top chefs. Don’t miss the Chowder Cook-off, where local chefs compete for the title of best chowder in the region.

Visitor Tip: Some events sell out quickly—reserve your tickets in advance.

Annual Lost Colony Wine, Beer & Culinary Festival (April 12, 2025)

Held in Manteo, this festival offers gourmet food pairings with a selection of fine wines and craft beers. Enjoy live music in a scenic waterfront setting while supporting the historic Lost Colony outdoor theater.

Visitor Tip: Manteo’s charming shops and waterfront boardwalk make for a perfect pre- or post-festival stroll.

Fly Into Spring Kite Festival (April 18–19, 2025)

Celebrate National Kite Month at Jockey’s Ridge State Park, home to the tallest sand dunes on the East Coast. Watch massive show kites take to the skies, participate in kite-making workshops, and enjoy family-friendly activities like egg hunts and Easter Bunny photo ops.

Visitor Tip: Bring a camera—the backdrop of colorful kites against the dunes at sunset is breathtaking.

Easter Celebrations Across OBX (April 19–20, 2025)

Easter weekend in OBX includes sunrise beach services, egg hunts, and special brunch menus at top restaurants. Notable Easter events:

• Easter Eggstravaganza (April 19, 2025) - Kitty Hawk Kites

• Eastertide in the Gardens (April 19, 2025) - Elizabethan Gardens

Visitor Tip: If attending an Easter brunch, book reservations early as spots fill quickly.

Outer Banks Bike Week (April 19–27, 2025)

Motorcycle enthusiasts from all over the East Coast gather for scenic rides along the OBX coastline, live music, and bike-friendly events.

Visitor Tip: Even if you’re not a biker, the sight of hundreds of motorcycles cruising along Highway 12 is an impressive spectacle.

Earth Day Celebrations (April 21–22, 2025)

Celebrate nature with activities like beach cleanups (Sweep the Beach) and educational exhibits at Earth Fair OBX.

Visitor Tip: Join a cleanup event and enjoy a peaceful morning while helping to preserve OBX's beautiful shores.

Ocracoke Island Scallywag Race Weekend (April 26–27, 2025)

Challenge yourself with Blackbeard’s Half Marathon or the Scallywag 5K/10K on Ocracoke Island’s scenic trails.

Visitor Tip: Ocracoke’s ferry ride from Hatteras offers stunning views of the sound—a great experience even if you're just cheering on the runners.

Visiting OBX’s Top Attractions in April

The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

April is a great time to climb the 257 steps to the top of the historic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse before the summer rush. The views of the Atlantic and Pamlico Sound are stunning.

Visitor Tip: The lighthouse opens for climbing in mid-April. Tickets are first-come, first-served, so arrive early.

Wild Horses of Corolla

Take a 4x4 off-road tour to see the famous wild horses of Corolla roaming the beaches and dunes.

Visitor Tip: Sunset tours offer the best light for photography and a cooler, more comfortable ride.

Hotel Deals & Travel Ease in April

April is still considered shoulder season, meaning visitors can often find discounted hotel rates before peak summer pricing kicks in. Many vacation rentals also offer early-season specials, making this a budget-friendly time to visit.

Ferry & Traffic Conditions

Unlike the busier summer months, April brings shorter ferry lines and lighter traffic along the OBX’s scenic highways. The Hatteras-Ocracoke Ferry has reduced wait times, making island-hopping more convenient.

Visitor Tips:

• Book accommodations early for Easter weekend, as it’s one of the busiest times of the month.

• If traveling to Ocracoke Island, plan your ferry ride during non-peak hours (early morning or mid-afternoon) for the quickest boarding.

• Parking at major attractions like Jockey’s Ridge and Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is easy to find in April compared to the summer rush.

Dining & Restaurant Crowds in April

April marks the start of the busy season, with many seasonal restaurants reopening. While you won’t experience the peak summer crowds, weekends—especially during Easter and Taste of the Beach—can get busy. Brunch spots and seafood restaurants fill up quickly, so reservations are recommended.

Visitor Tips:

• Arrive early or dine outside of peak hours for shorter wait times.

• Coastal seafood is at its best in April—try local specialties like Hatteras clam chowder and steamed oysters.

• Many oceanfront restaurants offer outdoor seating—bring a light jacket for cool evenings.

Why Visit OBX in April?

April offers the best of both worlds—warmer weather and exciting events without summer’s heavy crowds. Whether you're here to see wild horses, explore lighthouses, indulge in fresh seafood, or simply relax on the beach, April in OBX delivers a perfect coastal getaway.

Ready to plan your trip? Pack your bags, embrace the springtime charm, and discover why April is one of the best-kept secrets of the Outer Banks.