Slow down and enjoy the solitude
The quiet season has its own magic
Solitude, stargazing, holiday events, and fresh oysters. Winter on the Outer Banks offers a completely different, deeply rewarding experience.
Serenity & Open Beaches
If you're seeking solitude, the Outer Banks in winter is calming and restorative. With no crowds on the beach, shell seekers can spend time finding unique shells that have washed up. Fully intact whelk shells, scotch bonnets, and sea stars are commonly found on the beach in the days following a nor'easter.
Cozy Homes
Rental home availability is at its peak and rates are at their lowest during winter. Many beach houses are outfitted with cozy fireplaces and hot tubs — perfect for warming up after a brisk beach walk.
Holiday Events & Celebrations
Corolla Christmas Village, Duck Yuletide Celebration, 12 Bars of Christmas, WinterLights at Elizabethan Gardens, and Downtown Manteo's holiday events make winter a festive time on the OBX. Shop for unique OBX-made gifts at local holiday markets and pick up ornaments to remember your trip.
OBX Winter Weather
What to expect in December, January, and February
Daytime
53°
- Crisp and chilly
- Bring a jacket
- Sunrise between 6:53am – 7:11am
Evenings
39°
- Brisk
- Pack boots and a hat
- Sunset between 4:48pm – 5:55pm
Ocean
47°
- The water is very chilly
- *Surf can be powerful during windy conditions
What is the weather like in winter?
While winter weather on the Outer Banks is generally chilly, it is not unheard of to experience a warm, sunny day with high temperatures in the 70's. Average high temperatures are in the mid-50s, and average low temperatures are in the high-30s and low-40s. Nor'easters are low-pressure coastal storms that can bring heavy rain, high winds, and rough seas to the Outer Banks. A dramatic and memorable experience from the comfort of a beachfront home.
What to pack for OBX winter
Winter weather on the Outer Banks encourages visitors to pack a variety of clothing options. During the day, a long-sleeve t-shirt or a hoodie may be sufficient if the weather is sunny. On windy days, a winter jacket, hat, and gloves are recommended. Don't forget waterproof boots if you plan to explore the beach after a nor'easter brings waves close to the dune line.
Does it snow on the Outer Banks?
Snow on the Outer Banks is not uncommon; however, the Outer Banks does not regularly receive significant snowfall. When snow does fall, it's a stunning sight. Wide beaches dusted in white with the Atlantic as a backdrop. The thin barrier island means snow rarely sticks for long, but for those lucky enough to experience it, a snowy day on the OBX is truly something special.
Tips for a Winter OBX Vacation
Choose a home with a hot tub and enjoy an invigorating soak each day.
Snuggle up by the vacation home’s fireplace and watch your favorite movie.
Watch the waves roll in from an oceanfront home.
Play all day in a home with an arcade or game room.
Visit Corolla Christmas Village to get into the holiday spirit.
Shop for unique OBX-made gifts at holiday markets.
Stroll through an illuminated wonderland at Winterlights at the Elizabethan Gardens.
Ring in the New Year with loved ones on the Outer Banks.
Go for a calming walk on a mostly empty beach.
Spend time combing through shell beds, searching for elusive sea glass.
Watch the sea foam roll in during powerful nor’easter surf.
Look for migrating birds that pass through the OBX in the winter.
Calming, restorative, and full of wonder
If you're seeking solitude, the Outer Banks in winter is calming and restorative. The Outer Banks is not crowded during the winter months, which means low traffic, minimal (if any) wait times at restaurants, and a wide-open beach to explore.
Holiday Events
While January and February are ideal times to simply enjoy the serenity the Outer Banks in winter offers, OBX holiday events and experiences can be found throughout the area in December.
Beachcombing
With no crowds on the beach, shell seekers can spend time finding unique shells that have washed up on the beach. Fully intact whelk shells, scotch bonnets, and sea stars are commonly found on the beach in the days following a nor'easter. Other prized beachcombing finds include sea glass, fulgurite, and driftwood.
Hiking
Cooler temperatures offer the opportunity to explore the many hiking trails on the Outer Banks. Visit Jockey’s Ridge State Park and look for the interesting sand patterns created by the winter winds. The Wright Brothers National Memorial grounds are vast, and the memorial sits at the top of a big hill. Explore a maritime forest as you hike through Nags Head Woods Ecological Preserve. Flying insects are minimal during cold weather, but bring bug spray just in case.
Go Stargazing
Outer Banks oysters are a true delicacy, best experienced during the winter months. While farmed oysters are available year-round, wild oysters are at their tastiest during the colder months of the year.
Eat Oysters
Outer Banks oysters are a true delicacy, best experienced during the winter months. While farmed oysters are available year-round, wild oysters are at their tastiest during the colder months of the year.
Explore the OBX to Plan Your Summer Vacation
Winter on the Outer Banks is the perfect time to plan your summer vacation. Get to know the different areas of the OBX by figuring out what is close to your summer vacation home, and get a lay of the land as you navigate different neighborhoods.
From the Twiddy Blog
Beating the Winter Blues
6 Things to Do in the OBX in Winter
Winter rentals available now
Book a winter vacation on the OBX and discover the area in the quiet season. Gather and connect with loved ones in a beautiful Outer Banks vacation home.