Picture this: wild horses galloping along pristine beaches while ocean breezes carry whispers of centuries-old mysteries. Welcome to North Carolina’s Outer Banks—a magical string of barrier islands where history, adventure and pure coastal bliss come together in the most enchanting way. Whether you’re dreaming of your next getaway or planning the perfect escape from everyday life, here are six dreamy ways to fall completely in love with the OBX.
Embark on a safari-style wild horse tour
Start your OBX adventure with a safari-style tour from Kitty Hawk Kites to see the wild Colonial Spanish mustangs roaming free in the Carova Beach area. Watching horses gallop along the shoreline? Pure Outer Banks magic.
Pedal through aviation history at the Wright Brothers Memorial
Julia Dennison
Next, channel your inner aviator at the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kill Devil Hills. Rent bikes and cruise the scenic, flat trail loop that winds through grassy fields and history-rich paths—no pilot’s license required. Many hotels, such as the Sanderling Resort, also offer free bike rentals.
Experience America’s longest-running outdoor drama under the stars
End your day with a visit to Roanoke Island and catch The Lost Colony, America’s longest-running outdoor symphonic drama. Then stick around—the haunting vibe after dark makes it the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable ghost story.
Indulge in breezy luxury at the newly transformed Sanderling Resort
Courtesy of Sanderling Resort
Celebrating its 40th anniversary in style, the Sanderling Resort—a favorite for families visiting the area for decades—has emerged from a head-to-toe luxury makeover as the Outer Banks’ only full-service resort—and it’s total showstopper. Newly redesigned by Ward + Gray, every inch of the property now exudes coastal sophistication, from the two-story Beach House lobby (where you’ll check in with an ocean view) to the 123 guest rooms and suites wrapped in soft, sea-inspired hues and textured finishes.
Families and friend groups can even book one of the residences at The Sanderling Resort—multi-bedroom vacation homes with wraparound decks, full kitchens and sweeping Currituck Sound sunsets—that blend the space of a beach house with the pampering of a 5-star stay.
Beyond its new look, the Sanderling has rolled out a full calendar of experiences, from sunrise yoga on the sand to stargazing, art exhibits and beach picnics, ensuring there’s always something magical to do in every season.
Looking to relax? Unwind at the Sanderling Resort’s spa in Duck with an ocean-inspired treatment (the couples massage is a standout).
Tuck into tomato pie at the Theodosia restaurant
Julia Dennison
As the sun sinks into Currituck Sound, head to Theodosia, the Sanderling Resort’s dazzling new signature restaurant from award-winning North Carolina chef Vivian Howard. Named for the mysterious Theodosia Burr (whose ship was lost off these very shores), the restaurant is all soft lighting, rich textures and floor-to-ceiling views that glow at golden hour.
The menu is a love letter to the coastal South, full of Howard’s creative twists on local traditions. Think flounder toast with crab rice and basil beurre blanc and slow-baked grouper in fragrant Frogmore broth. Even the cocktails nod to the area’s hidden rum-running history, mixing island flavors with modern flair. (See below for our take on the restaurant’s Serena Susanna clarified milk punch cocktail.)
And don’t skip her famous savory tomato pie as an appetizer and her cult-favorite lemon pie, with its salty-sweet Ritz cracker crust, for dessert! (Because who doesn’t want two pies in one meal?)
Bonus: Experience the Outer Banks at home!
Imagine you’re in OBX with a dreamy clarified milk punch inspired by the Theodosia restaurant and a virtual road trip.
Peach Rum Clarified Cocktail
Ingredients:
- 4 oz. peach-infused silver rum
- 11⁄2 oz. lemon juice
- 2 oz. peach cream or peach nectar
- 1 oz. simple syrup
- 4 dried coriander seeds
- 4 oz. warm whole milk (to clarify)
In a mixing glass or shaker, combine the first 5 ingredients. Stir gently to mix and lightly muddle the coriander. Slowly add milk and stir for 30 seconds until curdled. Strain through a cheesecloth into a clean container until clear. Pour the clarified cocktail evenly over ice into two glasses. Garnish as desired.
Virtual tour: Trip to the Outer Banks
Ready to explore from home? This breezy video from Got2Go covers it all—from wild Cedar Island to the windblown dunes at Jockey’s Ridge.
The Outer Banks isn’t just a destination—it’s a place where memories are made and spirits are renewed. Whether you’re watching wild horses dance along the shore or savoring that perfect sunset dinner, every moment here feels like a gift. So go ahead, start dreaming about your own Outer Banks adventure. Sometimes the most magical journeys begin with a single beautiful thought.
This story first appeared in the September 8, 2025, print issue of Woman’s World magazine.
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