Outer Banks Labor Day Things to Do
Outer Banks Labor Day Things to DoReady to stretch summer just a little longer? The Outer Banks (OBX) is a perfect Labor Day getaway with wide-open beaches, iconic lighthouses, and a festive lineup of late-August events. Whether you’re planning a classic beach day, looking to surf the Atlantic, or exploring charming coastal towns like Corolla, Duck, and Nags Head, you’ll find something for everyone in the family.
In this guide, you’ll discover:
- The best ways to enjoy beach time (with kids, teens, and multi-generational groups)
- Must-see sights in Corolla, Duck, and Nags Head
- Featured events over Labor Day week, including a surf championship, a free concert, and a throwback headliner
Let’s make your OBX Labor Day memorable, relaxed, and easy to plan.
Beach Fun in the Sun: Your Perfect OBX Day
Plan a no-stress beach base
- Arrive early to claim a good spot, especially on holiday weekends.
- Pack a beach tent or pop-up shade, SPF 30+, hats, and plenty of water.
- Bring a cooler with sandwiches, fruit, and salty snacks—beach days build big appetites.
Activities for every age
- Young kids: Sandcastle building stations, shell scavenger hunts, and shallow wave jumping. A set of buckets, shovels, and molds goes a long way.
- Older kids and teens: Boogie boarding, skimboarding near the shoreline, and pickup games of Spikeball or paddle ball.
- Adults: Beach reads, floating loungers, or sunrise strolls. If you’re up early, the sunrise over the Atlantic is worth the alarm.
Safety first
- Choose lifeguarded beaches when possible. Watch posted flags and surf conditions.
- Hydrate often and reapply sunscreen every two hours.
- Mind beach rules on fires, pets, and glass—each town posts guidelines at access points.
Family Beach Time: Simple Ideas That Make Big Memories
- Sunrise picnic: Bagels, coffee, and a quiet beach before the day gets busy.
- DIY beach Olympics: Relay races, frisbee accuracy, and a sand sculpture contest. Create medals from shells and ribbon.
- Shell ID challenge: Use a simple shell guide to spot coquinas, whelks, and scallops. Leave the live ones where they are.
- Evening glow party: After dusk, break out glow sticks, take a gentle shoreline stroll, and watch for ghost crabs (use red-light flashlights to protect night vision).
Sightseeing Highlights by Town
Corolla: Wild Horses and Coastal History
- Corolla Wild Horses: Book a guided tour to see the legendary Colonial Spanish mustangs that roam the dunes. Guides keep a respectful distance and know the best viewing spots. PRO TIP – visit the Corolla Wild Horse Museum!
- Currituck Beach Lighthouse: Climb 220 steps for sweeping views of the sound and sea. The brick exterior makes for great family photos.
- Historic Corolla Park: Walk the grounds of Whalehead and enjoy open lawns perfect for picnics, kite flying, or a quiet sunset by the water.
Family tip: Pair a morning lighthouse climb with an early lunch, then a shaded stroll through the park to keep everyone cool.
Browse our Corolla, NC vacation rentals
- Oceanfront rentals in Corolla
- Pet-friendly Corolla vacation rentals
- Corolla vacation home rentals with pools
- Vacation rentals in the Corolla Light Resort
- Whalehead Beach Corolla Rentals
- Luxury vacation homes in Corolla
- Corolla rentals with hot tubs
- Condo rental in Corolla
- Corolla Beach rentals
- Corolla Rental Homes with Elevators
- Condo rentals in Corolla
Duck: Boardwalk Charm and Live Music
- Duck Boardwalk: A mile-long, soundside boardwalk lined with boutique shops, ice cream stops, and peaceful lookout points. Strollers and little legs will love the smooth path.
- Kayak or SUP on the Sound: Calm waters make it easy for beginners. Look for guided eco-tours to spot herons, egrets, and mullet jumping at the surface. PRO TIP: Best kayak Tours of the Outer Banks
- Town of Duck Concert on the Green (August 28, 6:30–9:00 pm): Pack blankets and chairs for this free outdoor show at Duck Town Park, 1200 Duck Road. It’s casual, family-friendly, and perfect after a day in the sun.
Pro move: Pick up takeout from a local deli and turn the concert into a picnic dinner.
Browse our Duck, NC vacation rentals
- Oceanfront rentals in Duck
- Pet-friendly Duck vacation rentals
- Duck vacation home rentals with pools
- Luxury vacation homes in Duck
- Duck rentals with hot tubs
- Duck Beach rentals
- Duck Rental Homes with Elevators
Nags Head: Dunes, Piers, and Classic OBX Vibes
- Jockey’s Ridge State Park: The tallest living sand dune system on the East Coast. Try hang-gliding lessons or fly kites at sunset when the breeze kicks up and the sand cools off.
- Nags Head Fishing Pier: Grab a rental rod, fish for spot and croaker, and cap it with a pier-side meal. Even if you don’t fish, the views are worth the stroll.
- Beach Road Eats: From fresh-catch baskets to old-school soft-serve, this stretch delivers easy, tasty fuel for families on the go.
Browse our Nags Head Vacation rentals
Featured Labor Day Week Events
WRV Outer Banks Pro (August 27–31)
- What to expect: Professional surfers, bracket-style heats, and a festival feel right on the sand.
- Why go: Free entertainment, close-up athleticism, and endless photo ops. Kids will be inspired to try a boogie board session after watching.
- What to bring: Sun protection, water, a compact chair or blanket, and a camera. Check event pages for daily schedules and conditions.
Town of Duck Concert on the Green (August 28, 6:30–9:00 pm)
- Where: Duck Town Park, 1200 Duck Road
- Vibe: Laid-back, local, and perfect for families with little ones who need open space to roam.
- Pack: Chairs, blankets, bug spray, and snacks. Arrive a bit early to claim a good spot.
Kool & The Gang – Live in the Outer Banks (August 30, 5:00–11:00 pm)
- Where: Roanoke Island Festival Park, Manteo
- Why it’s a must: A feel-good, multigenerational show where everyone knows the chorus. Expect hits, dancing, and a celebratory mood to lead into the holiday weekend.
- Logistics: Check parking, shuttles, and ticket details in advance. Bring a light layer for the evening breeze over the water.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Holiday Weekend
- Book early: Surf lessons, tours, and popular restaurants fill fast during Labor Day week.
- Parking: Use town websites or posted signs for beach access rules. Consider biking or walking in Duck to skip the parking hunt.
- Pack smart: Reusable water bottles, a soft cooler, and a quick-dry beach blanket earn their keep.
- Weather backup: Have an indoor option ready—North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island, local museums, or a lighthouse visit on breezier days.
Why the Outer Banks Is a Perfect Labor Day Getaway
- Space to breathe: Wide beaches mean you won’t feel crowded, even on a busy weekend.
- Something for everyone: From toddlers with sand pails to teens chasing waves and grandparents enjoying concerts at sunset, the OBX delivers variety without stress.
- Easy pace: You can plan around the tides, not the traffic. Most activities are within a short drive, and the views are half the fun.
Wrap-Up: Make Summer’s Last Hurrah Count
Labor Day in the Outer Banks blends classic beach days with fun events. Set up your umbrella, ride a few waves, explore Corolla, Duck, and Nags Head, and end each night with salty hair and a happy crew. With a little planning, you’ll head home with sun-kissed cheeks, great photos, and a glow that lasts past September.
Ready to go? Check local event pages for any last-minute updates, reserve your lessons or tours, and pack that cooler. The OBX is calling.
Browse our Outer Banks Vacation Rentals and start planning your unforgettable getaway today.
Short-Term Stays – Can’t get away for a whole week? No worries! We offer partial week stays on select homes!
