Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching, and that means it’s time to make plans for your special someone – and fortunately, Outer Banks is full of amazing places to dine, unwind and spend time with the people you care about. Whether you’re already living in the area, vacationing here or looking for an Outer Banks home for sale, check out these five romantic things to do in Outer Banks (and see where to go for Valentine’s dinner) so you can pull off a celebration to remember.
Valentine’s Day: Romantic Things to Do in Outer Banks, NC
Exploring Outer Banks with a romantic slant is easy if you know where to go. Check out:
- Climb the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
- Watch the sun set at Jockey’s Ridge State Park
- Breathe the fresh sea air from the Duck Town Boardwalk
- Stroll through the Elizabethan Gardens
- Visit the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge
Here’s a closer look at each.
Climb the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
If you and your special someone are up for it, climbing the 257 steps inside the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is a great way to spend an afternoon. (You can also check out the Bodie Island Lighthouse, which has just over 200 steps.) You need tickets to climb to the top – but you can also simply enjoy the grounds and stand in awe of one of the most dangerous sections of the Atlantic Coast.
Watch the Sun Set at Jockey’s Ridge State Park
Jockey’s Ridge is the tallest living sand dune on the Atlantic Coast, and it’s one of the most remarkable places in North Carolina for sunset viewing. You can stroll down the 360-foot boardwalk, learn about the dune’s ecology, walk through and settle in at the top for a breathtaking view as the sun dips below the horizon.
Breathe the Fresh Sea Air From the Duck Town Boardwalk
The beautiful Duck Town Boardwalk, located in the 11-acre Duck Town Park, is open from dawn to 1 a.m. It’s a great sunset-viewing spot, and with warmer weather on the way, it might be the perfect place for you to take someone special. The park itself is only open until dusk, though, so keep that in mind if you plan to explore the walking paths and trails.
Stroll Through the Elizabethan Gardens
The Elizabethan Gardens, a living memorial to Sir Walter Raleigh’s lost colonists, is also one of the sites on the North Carolina Birding Trail. You can walk through the winding pathways to enjoy antique statuary elements surrounded by beautiful seasonal plants, enjoy a picnic on the grounds or take the free audio tour.
Visit the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge
The Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge in Rodanthe is the perfect place to explore Hatteras Island. You can drive through all the beautiful scenic areas, stopping along the way to enjoy the views, or you can stroll along the North Pond Trail or Salt Flats Trail. You’ll find plenty of places for fabulous photo-ops throughout the refuge.
Where to Eat on Valentine’s Day in OBX
Cap off the perfect day with dinner at one of Outer Banks’ fabulously romantic restaurants. Some local favorites include:
- Owens’ Restaurant
7114 South Virginia Dare Trail
Nags Head
252-441-7309 - Tale of the Whale
7575 South Virginia Dare Trail
Nags Head
252-441-7332 - 1587 Restaurant
405 Queen Elizabeth Avenue
Nags Head
252-473-1587 - Ocean Boulevard Bistro and Martini Bar
4700 North Virginia Dare Trail
Kitty Hawk
252-261-2546 - JK’s Steaks and Seafood
1106 South Croatan Highway
Kill Devil Hills
252-441-9555 - The SaltBox Café
1469 Colington Road
Kill Devil Hills
252-255-5594
Are You Looking for an Outer Banks Home for Sale?
Whether you already live in one of Outer Banks’ beautiful communities or you’re considering purchasing a home here, we can help you find the one that’s just right for your needs. You can search OBX real estate listings or call us at 252-491-3333 to tell us what you’re looking for – we’ll help you find it.
© 2019 Outer Banks Association of Realtors MLS. IDX information is provided exclusively for consumers' personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing. Information is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed accurate by the MLS or Outer Banks Realty Group.