When to Visit the Outer Banks, NC
Since they're perched on the Atlantic Ocean, the Outer Banks experience warm summers, chilly winters, and occasional storms in between. In the summer, you can expect highs in the mid- to upper 80s and occasional evening or overnight thunderstorms. Spring and fall tend to be cool, with highs in the mid-60s and low 70s. Winters can get cold, with lows in the mid-30s.
Summer is peak season in the Outer Banks, so you'll need to plan in advance for the lowest prices on accommodations. Keep in mind that some summer weekends are so busy that many hotels sell out if you haven't booked in advance. Try planning your trip for the spring or fall to save money, but remember that many restaurants and attractions may have seasonal hours.
You'll see the Outer Banks at its liveliest if you plan your visit during one of the area's many annual festivals. In early August, the Outer Banks Watermelon Festival celebrates this sweet fruit with interactive activities, local food, and summer traditions. In October, the Outer Banks Seafood Festival tempts visitors and locals with fresh seafood, live music, and a celebration of Outer Banks culture.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Outer Banks, NC:
Averate Rates by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts displaying average nightly cost trends by star rating class in Outer Banks, NC. Analyze these charts to evaluate the most cost effective time to stay in Outer Banks during the year.
Luxury Hotels in the Outer Banks, NC
4 Star Average Prices: $214.33
You'll find numerous upscale accommodations in Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, and elsewhere along the Outer Banks.
Located in Kill Devil Hills, the Comfort Inn on the Ocean is convenient to Destination Fun and other family-friendly attractions. Enjoy stunning views of the ocean right from your room, or head out to your private patio or balcony for a closer look. Guest rooms include conveniences like microwaves and mini fridges, as well as 32-inch LCD TVs and free Wi-Fi. Cool down in the outdoor pool, or dance the evening away at the hotel's nightclub. Sit down to dinner at the hotel restaurant, and don't miss the free buffet breakfast in the morning.
At the Shutters on the Banks, you'll be near the Wright Brothers National Memorial, Destination Fun, and other Kill Devil Hills attractions. Choose a standard, classic, deluxe, or premium room, and pick either a poolside or an ocean view. Rooms come equipped with mini fridges and microwaves so you don't have to leave the comfort of your room to enjoy a snack. Make a splash in the hotel's outdoor pool, or head right to the beach, which is just steps away. In the morning, you won't want to miss the complimentary continental breakfast, with waffles, pastries, coffee, and more.
When you stay at Sanderling Resort in Duck, North Carolina, you'll be near the Currituck Outer Banks Visitor Center and the Corolla Raceway. Relax in your spacious room, which includes upgraded amenities like a private balcony, an iPod docking station, and designer toiletries. Spend the afternoon unwinding with a massage or a body treatment, or head to one of two outdoor pools. The private beach is just steps away, and the Sanderling Resort also offers three restaurants and a poolside bar. With 6,000 square feet of event space, you can even host a wedding or a corporate function right on site.
Situated just north of Kitty Hawk, the Hilton Garden Inn Outer Banks/Kitty Hawk is right on the waterfront and offers both beach access and indoor and outdoor pools. You'll get a great night's sleep on a Select Comfort bed, and you'll find that the private balcony is the ideal place to relax in the morning or evening. Get in a quick workout in the hotel's fitness center, have a blast in the game room, or head straight for the beach. Enjoy a meal or two in the hotel's restaurant, or explore the dining options nearby in Kitty Hawk.
Best Budget-Friendly Hotels in Outer Banks, NC
3 Star Average Prices: $183.64
For the most affordable accommodations along the Outer Banks, set your sights on these budget-friendly hotels in Nags Head, Wilbur, and beyond.
Located between Kill Devil Hills and Nags Head, the Days Inn Kill Devil Hills Oceanfront - Wilbur is in the center of the action on the Outer Banks. Rooms might be basic, but they include mini fridges, microwaves, free Wi-Fi, and workspaces. You'll even find a refreshing outdoor pool on site, as well as barbecue grills and a picnic area. Fill up at the free breakfast buffet in the morning, and join other guests for a complimentary reception in the evening. This budget-friendly hotel also offers free newspapers and free on-site parking to make your stay more affordable.
If you're looking for an inexpensive place to stay right on the waterfront, make it the Travelodge Nags Head Beach Hotel. Choose from double, queen, or king rooms, which all feature pool or ocean views. Enjoy the sunrise from your private balcony, chill your favorite drinks in the mini fridge, and use the free Wi-Fi to share beach selfies with your friends back home. Wake up to a complimentary continental breakfast, and start each day of your stay on a positive note.
Located just south of Nags Head, Owens' Motel offers double rooms with courtyard views or ocean views. All rooms include essentials like coffee makers, microwaves, mini fridges, and flat-screen TVs with cable programming. Go for a swim in the outdoor pool, or grill up an outdoor feast in the barbecue area. Explore the Nags Head area on foot or by car, and save with free on-site parking.
Conveniently located in Kitty Hawk, the Baymont Inn & Suites Kitty Hawk Outer Banks offers easy access to the Wright Brothers National Memorial and Paradise Fun Park. Choose a standard room or a suite, and enjoy amenities like free Wi-Fi, a workspace, a coffee maker, and a mini fridge. Play a few games at the hotel's arcade, go for a swim in the outdoor pool, or take advantage of complimentary access to a nearby fitness facility. Kids 17 and under stay free with parents, and rollaway beds are available for an additional surcharge.