Thinking about a new family vacation destination this year? The Outer Banks is a great destination with fun for the whole family. But don't take our word for it!
US News recently listed the OBX as 'Best Family Vacation' spot taking the number thirteen slot on a list of 15. That's quite an accomplishment considering we were competing with areas such as Rome, Sydney, London, Disney World, The Bahamas, and Costa Rica. The endless miles of wide open beaches, the history, the wildlife, and the lifestyle all combine to make the Outer Banks a perfect place for families to vacation.
Let's see how U.S. News ranks us in other categories.
#8 in Best Cheap Summer Vacations
OBX took number eight on this list. It acknowledges that summer is the peak season, so prices can climb. However, renting a house as opposed to staying in a hotel is an economical choice. A private home or condo gives you more square feet per dollar. Having a full kitchen provides the opportunity for preparing family meals which is also a money and time saver.
#5 in Best Affordable Family Vacations
Another reason private residences are a winner over hotels is the space and privacy they provide. Instead of renting multiple hotel rooms with virtually no common gathering space â?? imagine all of your family members being under one roof to celebrate special occasions and still have private spaces too.
#4 in Best Affordable Honeymoons in the USA
After your dream wedding, there's still the honeymoon to think about. With a wide variety of activities and dining choices, the Outer Banks makes for a terrific honeymoon destination. For the outdoor enthusiast try an outdoor tour that includes wild horses or dolphins. If you prefer a dining adventure, there are many upscale and casual restaurants to delight your taste buds. Touring a winery or a distillery is also a real possibility. And letâ??s not forget the miles and miles of beaches for true relaxation.
#4 in Best Beaches in the USA
What makes the OBX the 4th best in United States Beaches? Well, miles of open and unspoiled beaches and wildlife for one. There is plenty of room between the blankets and umbrellas. Watch flocks of migrating and exotic birds in a natural setting. Be witness to Sea Turtles hatching and making their way to the Atlantic Ocean. At night, you can grab a flashlight and go ghost crabbing. The beach is also great for beachcombing -- where you can find anything from sea glass to shells to a fossilized megalodon shark's tooth or even a shipwreck!
#4 in Best Relaxing Getaways in the USA 
Unlike some other beach resort areas the Outer Banks is a peaceful, family oriented spot to get away from it all. Unlike some other beach areas, we have no boardwalk allowing plenty of room for fishing from a pier or from the surf, and even during the â??in seasonâ??, there is plenty of space for spreading out on the beach. One can literally walk for miles and in many towns your furry 4 legged friend can join you. Be sure to check out Atlantic Realtyâ??s pet friendly homes.
#1 in Best Family Beach Vacations in the USA
It's no mystery why the Outer Banks was rated THE BEST family beach in the United States. Not only do we boast on having the best beaches, and a multitude of wildlife, the local community works hard to keep this a family friendly beach. Restaurants on the Outer Banks have a fun atmosphere and appeal to the young and young at heart. There are plenty of playgrounds, a children's museum and shows for children. For older family members there are harnessed adventure parks, laser tag, ghost tours, an escape room, a murder mystery dinner theatre and even a waterpark in summer 2017.
With so much to do and see on the Outer Banks, why not plan on a visit in 2017? Its great fun for everyone! Start your Vacation Search Now!
